Let me tell you, if you’re hunting for a product that marries sun protection with a natural, glowy finish, Tower 28 Sunny Days Tinted Sunscreen is your new best friend.
This isn’t just another tinted moisturizer—it’s a game-changer for anyone craving lightweight coverage that feels like skincare but looks like makeup.
With its National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and a formula that soothes sensitive skin, it’s a must-have for your daily routine. Trust me, you’ll want to grab this $32 gem and make it a staple in your beauty arsenal.
My Journey With Tower 28 Sunny Days
I’ll be honest—my skin and I have had our fair share of battles.
Between sporadic acne flare-ups in my twenties and a recent bout of eczema that left my cheeks red and itchy, finding a product that doesn’t irritate while delivering coverage has been like chasing a unicorn.
Enter Tower 28 Sunny Days Tinted Sunscreen, a product that promised to be a sunscreen-foundation hybrid with skin-soothing benefits.
I was skeptical at first—most tinted sunscreens either leave a white cast or feel like a heavy mask. But this one? It’s been a revelation.
I started using Sunny Days about six months ago, and it’s become my go-to for those mornings when I want to look polished without spending an hour on my face. The first time I squeezed the lavender tube (adorable, by the way), I noticed its lightweight, almost serum-like texture.
It glides on like a dream, and I applied it with my fingertips, though I later experimented with a damp sponge for extra coverage. The shade Point Dume matched my medium olive skin perfectly, blending seamlessly without that dreaded chalky finish. Within minutes, my redness was tamed, and my skin had a soft, satin glow that didn’t scream “makeup.”
I wore it through a humid summer day, and by evening, it still looked fresh—no caking, no sliding off my face. It’s like my skin, but better, and I’ve gotten compliments from friends who thought I was just having a great skin day.
What struck me most was how it didn’t aggravate my eczema. The National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance isn’t just a fancy logo—it means this stuff is legit for sensitive skin. Ingredients like aloe vera and prickly pear extract felt like a hug for my irritated skin, and the non-nano zinc oxide provided solid SPF 30 protection without that greasy sunscreen vibe.
I’ve since made it a staple, especially for those no-makeup makeup days when I want to look alive without the effort.
What Makes Tower 28 Sunny Days Stand Out?
Let’s talk about why this product has me hooked. Tower 28 Sunny Days isn’t just a tinted sunscreen—it’s a multitasking marvel that combines sun protection, light-to-medium coverage, and skincare benefits in one sleek tube.
The formula is built around non-nano zinc oxide, which offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection against UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens that can sting or irritate, this mineral-based formula sits gently on your skin, creating a physical barrier that’s kind to even the most reactive complexions.
The shade range is another win. With 17 flexible shades named after sunny Los Angeles hangouts, there’s something for everyone, from alabaster to deep mocha. I love how the brand worked with celebrity makeup artist Kirin Bhatty to nail the undertones, ensuring you don’t end up with that orange-y, mismatched look.
The packaging, made from 60% post-consumer recycled plastic, is both eco-conscious and user-friendly, with a fine-tip dispenser that lets you control how much product you use.
Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and fragrance-free—perfect for anyone who’s ever had a bad reaction to beauty products.
But it’s the skin-loving ingredients that really seal the deal.
Aloe vera soothes and hydrates, prickly pear extract protects against blue light pollution (hello, screen time), and white sage extract calms inflammation. It’s like a skincare smoothie disguised as makeup.
Whether you’re dealing with redness, sensitivity, or just want a low-maintenance routine, this product delivers a natural finish that lets your real skin—freckles, moles, and all—shine through.
Pros of Tower 28 Sunny Days
- Sensitive Skin Savior
If your skin throws a tantrum at the slightest provocation, Sunny Days is your knight in shining armor. The National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance is a big deal—it’s the only complexion product with this honor, meaning it’s rigorously tested for sensitive skin.
I’ve got eczema patches that flare up without warning, and this tinted sunscreen never once made them worse. In fact, the aloe vera and white sage in the formula seem to calm my skin down, reducing redness and irritation. If you’re prone to reactions, this is a safe bet that won’t leave you scratching.
- Buildable, Natural Coverage
The coverage is where Sunny Days really flexes. It’s described as light to medium, and I found it lives up to that promise. One layer evens out my skin tone, smoothing over redness and minor blemishes without looking like I’m wearing a mask.
If I want a bit more, I can build it up with a damp sponge for medium coverage that still feels weightless. The finish is a satin glow—not too dewy, not too matte—so your skin looks like, well, your skin, but on its best day. I love that my freckles still peek through, giving that fresh, no-makeup vibe.
- Broad-Spectrum Protection
Sun protection is non-negotiable, and Sunny Days delivers with non-nano zinc oxide, which blocks both UVA and UVB rays. I’ve worn it on long outdoor days, and my skin stayed protected without that greasy, heavy feel of traditional sunscreens.
The lack of white cast is a huge plus—especially for darker skin tones, where many mineral sunscreens fail. It’s also reef-safe, so you can feel good about using it near the ocean. For me, knowing I’m shielded from sun damage while looking polished is a win-win.
- Eco-Conscious and Inclusive
Tower 28’s commitment to sustainability is refreshing. The packaging uses 60% recycled plastic, and the brand’s Earth Sensitive Pledge means they’re mindful about reducing waste.
The 17-shade range is inclusive, catering to a wide array of skin tones, and the playful LA-inspired shade names (like Venice Beach or Silver Lake) make picking one fun. I appreciate how the brand balances ethics with performance, making it easy to feel good about what you’re putting on your face.
Cons of Tower 28 Sunny Days
- Shine on Oily Skin
If you’ve got oily or combination skin like me, you might notice a bit of shine by the end of the day, especially in humid weather.
When I first tried Sunny Days without setting powder, my T-zone looked a little too glowy by late afternoon.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but you’ll want to pair it with a lightweight translucent powder if you’re prone to oiliness.
I use a touch of Kosas Cloud Set powder, and it keeps things under control without dulling the natural finish.
- Silicones and Phenoxyethanol Concerns
While the formula is a dream for sensitive skin, it does contain silicones and phenoxyethanol, which might give some folks pause. Silicones can sometimes irritate super-sensitive skin or clog pores if not properly cleansed.
Phenoxyethanol, a preservative, is generally safe but sits in the middle of the ingredient list, suggesting a moderate concentration. I haven’t had issues with either, but if you’re strict about avoiding these, you might want to patch-test first. For me, the benefits outweigh this minor quibble, but it’s worth noting.
- Limited Longevity Without Setting
Sunny Days holds up well for daily wear, but without setting powder, it can start to fade after eight hours, especially if you’re sweating or in high humidity. I noticed some feathering around my nose and chin when I skipped powder during a hot summer day.
Reapplying sunscreen every two hours, as recommended, can help, but it’s not always practical for a tinted product. If you’re planning a long day, a quick touch-up or a setting spray can keep things looking fresh.
Tips For Tower 28 Sunny Days
- Application for Flawless Results
To get the most out of Sunny Days, start with clean, moisturized skin. I like to prep with a lightweight hydrator to create a smooth canvas. Squeeze a quarter-sized amount (key for full SPF protection) and apply with clean fingers for a sheer look or a damp sponge for more coverage.
I’ve also tried a stippling brush, which works wonders for pressing the product into the skin for a seamless finish. Take your time blending around the nose and jawline to avoid any lines—it makes a big difference.
- Cleansing to Prevent Buildup
Since the formula contains silicones, double-cleansing is your friend. I use an oil-based cleanser first to break down the product, followed by a gentle foaming cleanser to remove any residue. This ensures your pores stay clear, especially if you’re acne-prone.
On days when I’m wearing multiple layers for extra coverage, I make sure to cleanse thoroughly at night to prevent any potential irritation. A microfiber cloth can also help gently exfoliate while removing the product.
- Reapplication for Sun Protection
To maintain SPF 30 protection, reapply every two hours if you’re out in the sun. I’ll admit, reapplying a tinted product can feel tricky, but I’ve found that dabbing a small amount over areas like my cheeks and forehead blends well without disturbing the initial layer.
If you’re swimming or sweating, pair it with a water-resistant sunscreen underneath for extra protection. This keeps your skin safe and ensures the coverage stays intact throughout the day.
- Storage for Longevity
Keep your Sunny Days tube in a cool, dry place—think away from steamy bathrooms or direct sunlight. The fine-tip dispenser is great for controlling product flow, but I’ve noticed it can clog if not wiped clean after use. A quick swipe with a tissue keeps it in top shape.
Also, check the expiration date (usually printed on the tube) to ensure the SPF is still effective. I store mine in a drawer with my other skincare to keep it fresh.
Comparing Tower 28 Sunny Days To Other Brands
- Tower 28 Sunny Days And Saie Slip Tint Dewy Tinted Moisturizer SPF 35
I’ve spent some time with Saie Slip Tint, a tinted moisturizer with SPF 35 that’s a darling in the clean beauty world.
Its non-nano zinc oxide base mirrors Sunny Days, offering solid sun protection, but the texture leans heavier, almost creamy, which can feel a bit much on my combination skin during humid days.
Saie’s 14 shades are decent, but Tower 28’s 17-shade range and LA-inspired names make shade matching more precise and fun.
Saie packs hyaluronic acid for extra hydration, which is great for dry skin, but it lacks the National Eczema Association’s seal that gives Sunny Days an edge for sensitive types like me.
If you’re after a dewier finish and don’t mind a slightly richer feel, Saie’s a contender, but Tower 28’s lighter, eczema-friendly formula wins for daily wear.
- Tower 28 Sunny Days And ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
ILIA’s Super Serum Skin Tint is a clean beauty heavyweight, and I was excited to try its SPF 40 formula with niacinamide and squalane.
It blends like a serum, blurring pores beautifully, but the ultra-dewy finish can look overly shiny on my T-zone by midday.
ILIA’s 30 shades are a flex, outpacing Tower 28’s range, but I found it pilled when layered over certain serums, unlike Sunny Days’ seamless application.
While ILIA is gentle, it doesn’t carry the eczema-specific approval that makes Tower 28 a safer bet for reactive skin.
For a glowy, skincare-heavy option, ILIA shines, but Sunny Days’ satin finish and reliability keep it in my rotation.
- Tower 28 Sunny Days And BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream SPF 30
BareMinerals Complexion Rescue, with its SPF 30 gel-cream formula, is another player I’ve tested. Its lightweight, hydrating texture feels similar to Sunny Days, but the coverage is sheerer, requiring more product to cover redness.
The 20-shade range is impressive, but I noticed a slight white cast on my olive skin, which Sunny Days avoids with its non-nano zinc oxide. BareMinerals emphasizes hydration with hyaluronic acid and mineral electrolytes, but it can feel tacky without powder, unlike Tower 28’s quick-drying satin finish.
For sensitive skin, Sunny Days’ eczema seal and soothing ingredients like aloe vera give it a clear advantage over BareMinerals’ more general approach.
- Tower 28 Sunny Days And NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30
NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer, also SPF 30, is a classic I’ve tried for its radiant finish and medium coverage.
It’s more makeup-forward than Sunny Days, feeling closer to a lightweight foundation, which can be great for polished looks but heavier on my skin.
NARS offers 16 shades, close to Tower 28’s 17, but the formula includes fragrance, which irritated my eczema patches, unlike Sunny Days’ fragrance-free blend.
NARS’s finish is luminous but can turn oily without blotting, while Tower 28’s satin glow holds up better on my combination skin.
For sensitive skin and a natural vibe, Sunny Days is the better pick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Sunny Days doesn’t oxidize on my skin. I’ve worn it for hours in various conditions—humid summer days, air-conditioned offices—and the shade Point Dume stayed true from morning to night. Unlike some tinted products that turn orange-y as they settle, this one blends seamlessly and maintains its color. The non-nano zinc oxide and lightweight formula help it avoid that oxidized look, so you can trust your shade match all day.
Yes, it dries down to a satin finish that feels comfortable and non-sticky. After applying, I give it a minute or two to set (brushing my teeth helps pass the time), and it feels like a second skin—not tacky or greasy. If you’re using a brush or sponge, it dries even faster, locking in that natural glow. For oily skin, a light powder can enhance the dry-down effect and keep shine at bay.
It’s decent for oily skin but requires some tweaking. My combination-oily skin loves the lightweight feel, but without setting powder, it can get shiny by mid-afternoon, especially in warm weather. The non-comedogenic formula doesn’t clog my pores, and ingredients like white sage help soothe irritation. If you’re super oily, pair it with a mattifying primer or powder for longevity. It’s not perfect for oil control, but with the right prep, it’s a solid choice.
Why Tower 28 Sunny Days Deserves Your Attention?
I can’t recommend Tower 28 Sunny Days enough. It’s a rare find that blends SPF 30 protection, buildable coverage, and sensitive-skin-friendly ingredients into one easy-to-use product.
Whether you’re dodging eczema flare-ups or just want a natural, glowy look, this tinted sunscreen delivers without the heaviness of traditional foundations. At $32, it’s a steal for the quality and versatility.
Grab it, try it, and watch it become your new obsession—you won’t regret adding this to your beauty lineup.