Algenist Repairing Tint & Blur Moisturiser Review, Swatches, FOTD

I now have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from a nasty infection I had in December; so I need full coverage makeup, though it is fading. Now that the weather is warm, I have been experimenting with tinted moisturiser to see how far things have improved and if I can ditch the heavy warpaint.
Algenist Repairing Tint & Blur Moisturiser is a multitasker that claims to work as primer, foundation, skin regenerating treatment and broad spectrum UV protector. It comes in just four shades - Light, Light/Medium, Medium and Tan.

Scroll down for review and swatches of Algenist Repairing Tint & Blur Moisturiser and a makeup look.

Algenist's usp is alguronic acid, which protects and regenerates microalgae cells. The product also contains microalgae oil, which is rich in skin nutrients such as oleic acid and Vitamin E. It is supposed to blur fine lines and imperfections - priming - provide natural coverage and rejuvenate the skin.
The tinted moisturiser also contains broad spectrum SPF 30 - benzophenone-3 (which could trigger allergies in some people).

The formula is thinner than the average light-to-medium coverage foundation and a breeze to blend out. Coverage is light; you can build it up to almost-medium, but if you have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or moles or scars, this may not hide them. Staying power is good when applied over a primer and below setting powder. I had to touch up by noon. This is not mattifying, but has a lovely dewy finish. I cannot speak for the skincare benefits as I don't have fine lines yet (long may that last).

Swatch

The SA in Sephora Rome said Tan would suit me. It is a tad too yellow even for my yellow skin and I have to apply a pink-ish primer such as Miguhara BP Cream and a setting powder to adjust.

FOTD

For this FOTD, I applied Miguhara BP cream, which is a pinky primer. I then applied the Algenist and finally buffed in By Terry Terrybly Densiliss Compact in Toasted Vanilla. Even so, my face looks yellower than my neck. You can still see the fading pigmentation marks from the infection.
In retrospect, I should have got one in Medium as well and mixed the two of them. Or added the Custom Cover Drops or some other shade adjusting product that would also increase coverage. 
That lipstick is Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro in 501, my favourite lipstick at the moment. I am also wearing eyeshadows from Cargo Cosmetics Venice Enchantment Palette.

Verdict and where to buy:

If you get a shade match, then this is a nice lightweight bet for warm weather. It has more coverage than most tinted moisturisers and BB/CC Creams. It is definitely as pigmented as my top two BB/CC Creams - Dr Brandt CC Mat and Cover FX BB Gel and performs at least equally well, staying power-wise. Apart from these three, I have not been impressed by other tinted moisturisers/BB/CC creams.
Despite the high SPF, it does not leave a whitish cast. My only gripe is the limited number of shades; If you are any deeper than, say, NC40, then you will not find a good match. Also, if you have pigmentation or blemishes, then this will not give adequate coverage. I hope they expand the shade range to suit most of us.
The Algenist Repairing Tint & Blur Moisturiser costs $42. Buy it here on Beauty Bay - worldwide shipping is free. Or, if you have access, get it here from Sephora or here at Ulta.

Which do you prefer, tints and BB/CC creams or full-coverage foundations? Tell me in the Disqus comments widget below.

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