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Beauty and liberation come with a price. The sun’s powerful UV rays can damage the skin, leading to premature aging, discoloration, and even skin cancer. Finding the best tanning sunscreen is essential for protecting your health while still achieving that perfect glow you desire.
We have researched 10 of the top sunscreens for tanning in 2023 so you don’t have to worry about sacrificing beauty or safety when getting an enviable bronze look! From Sun Bum Original SPF 30 to Cardon SPF Sunscreen Moisturizer Cream to Surface Sunscreen SPF 30, discover our selection of quality products designed specifically for safe tanning in this article!
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Best Tanning Sunscreen Options
- Sun Bum Original SPF 30
- Australian Gold SPF50 Moisture Max Lotion
- Coppertone Sunscreen SPF 15
- Sol De Janeiro Glow Oil
- Loreal Paris Sublime Sun SPF30 Oil Spray
- Cardon SPF Sunscreen Moisturizer Cream
- Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 15
- Neutrogena Sensitive SPF 60+
- Surface Sunscreen SPF 30
- Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion
- How to Use Sunscreen for Tanning?
- How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Tanning?
- How Does Sunscreen Help and Why Should You Use It?
- Understanding the Role of SPF in Tanning
- How Does Sunscreen Lotion Work on the Skin?
- The Importance of Sunscreen in Winter
- Fun Fact: the Evolution of Sunscreens
- Does Sunscreen Reduce the Effectiveness of Tanning?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Sun Bum SPF 30 and Australian Gold SPF 50 are recommended for broad-spectrum protection and water resistance.
- Consider using reef-safe formulas like Sun Bum SPF 30 and Surface SPF 30 for ocean environments.
- Exfoliating before application can improve absorption and prolong the tan.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating, for optimal protection.
Best Tanning Sunscreen Options
Looking to get a perfect tan while protecting your skin from the sun? Sun Bum Original SPF 30, Australian Gold SPF 50 Moisture Max Lotion, Coppertone Sunscreen SPF 15, Sol De Janeiro Glow Oil, L’Oreal Paris Sublime Sun SPF 30 Oil Spray, Cardon SPF.
Sun Bum Original SPF 30
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You’ll be protected from sun damage and nourish your skin with Sun Bum Original SPF 30. Its lightweight formula is enriched with Vitamin E, staying on in water or sweat for up to 80 minutes. The broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection offers reef-safe coverage that won’t clog pores, while the coconut scent adds a pleasant touch.
Non-greasy and fast-absorbing, this sunscreen is perfect for outdoor activities like swimming and beach vacations. Reviews show it’s great for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Plus, it can help you achieve a natural tan without burning or irritation.
- Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Reef-safe, paraben-free, and PABA-free
- Enriched with Vitamin E antioxidant
- Lightweight non-greasy feel
- Pleasant coconut scent
- Stays on even when sweating or swimming
- Thick consistency needs time to absorb into the skin
- Not waterproof (80 minutes water resistance)
- Expensive compared to other brands
Australian Gold SPF50 Moisture Max Lotion
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Experience intense sun protection with Australian Gold SPF50 Moisture Max Lotion. Its broad spectrum coverage shields you from UVA/UVB rays, and aloe vera keeps your skin hydrated. This sunscreen lotion comes in an 80-minute water-resistant formula infused with Vitamin E to nourish the skin.
It is lightweight and fast absorbing, with a pleasant fruity scent that makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. The easy application allows you to see any missed spots. Enjoy a healthy tan without burning, as this product helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays for up to 80 minutes of sun exposure or swimming when applied correctly.
- Broad spectrum SPF 50 protection shields from UVA/UVB rays
- Water resistance lasts up to 80 minutes
- Non-greasy formula is lightweight and fast absorbing
- Pleasant fruity scent makes outdoor experience more enjoyable
- Ideal for all skin tones due to light coverage
- Must reapply after every hour if sweating or swimming
- May not provide enough hydration on drier skins
Coppertone Sunscreen SPF 15
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Coppertone Sunscreen SPF 15 provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection to help protect against sunburns. It contains aloe vera and vitamin B for natural soothing, skin conditioning, and moisturizing. With a classic Coppertone fragrance, it’s water resistant up to 80 minutes, so you have ample time to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about reapplying.
This sunscreen also has plenty of antioxidants, which helps keep your skin healthy during exposure while still providing excellent coverage from UV radiation. It is a lightweight yet highly effective facial sunscreen that’s great for all skin tones, as well as people with sensitivities, since it doesn’t cause burning or irritation on sensitive skins.
The non-greasy formula absorbs quickly without leaving any residue or white cast behind, so you can look good after application too!
- Provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Contains aloe vera & Vitamin B for natural soothing & moisturizing
- Lightweight yet highly effective facial sunscreen
- Doesn’t cause burning or irritation on sensitive skins
- Non-greasy formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue behind
Sol De Janeiro Glow Oil
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Let Sol De Janeiro Glow Oil give you a glowing bronze shimmer that hydrates and nourishes your skin with its blend of acai and buriti oils. This lightweight, fast-absorbing dry oil absorbs quickly without leaving any residue or feeling greasy.
It can be used alone or mixed in with moisturizer or foundation to get the perfect sun-kissed glow.
With reflective pearls providing an instant bronzed look, this cruelty-free, vegan formula is sure to become your new go-to for summer days spent outdoors! Plus, it smells like pistachio salted caramel coconut – what more could you ask for?
The only downside is that the bottle may leak if not closed tightly enough. Some also find the shimmer particles too large and obvious, while others report a longer dry down time compared to other oils on their skin.
- Lightweight & fast absorbing
- Cruelty-free & vegan
- Tropical scent – pistachio salted caramel coconut
- Reflective pearls provide an instant glow bronze shimmer
- Can be used alone/mixed in w/moisturizer/foundation
- Bottle may leak if not closed tightly
- Some find shimmer particles too large/obvious
- Longer dry down time compared to regular oils
Loreal Paris Sublime Sun SPF30 Oil Spray
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Enjoy the sun with the nourishing, non-greasy L’Oreal Paris Sublime Sun SPF30 Oil Spray that provides hydration and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. This oil-based sunscreen is enriched with Vitamin E, Argan oil, Shea butter oil, Grapeseed oil, and Sunflower oil to help keep your skin moisturized while protecting it from harmful UV rays.
The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue or white cast on your skin. It has an easy spray application so you can cover any spots you may have missed for complete coverage.
For best results, be sure to reapply after sweating or swimming and check the expiration date regularly for optimal protection against sunburns and premature aging of the skin.
- Non-greasy formula
- Lightweight and fast absorbing
- Easy spray application
- Need to reapply after sweating or swimming
- Check expiration date regularly
Cardon SPF Sunscreen Moisturizer Cream
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Cardon SPF Sunscreen Moisturizer Cream offers superior protection from UVA/UVB rays with its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula enriched with cactus extract and chia seed oil. This cream is great for men of all skin tones because it provides broad spectrum coverage without a white cast or residue.
It absorbs quickly and leaves your skin feeling smooth and hydrated while providing sun protection.
Plus, the light marine scent makes it an appealing choice over comparable women’s products! With Cardon Sunscreen, you can get that healthy tan without risking burns or irritation to sensitive skin types – perfect for simplifying your skincare routine every day!
- Broad Spectrum Coverage (UVA & UVB)
- Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing Formula
- Non-greasy Feel & No White Cast
- Nourishing Ingredients (Cactus Extract Chia Seed Oil)
- Pleasant Marine Scent
- Expensive Compared To Similar Products
- Small Quantity For The Price
- Not Waterproof
Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 15
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Reach for Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 15 to tan without burning and nourish your skin with antioxidants, thanks to its lightweight, non-greasy formula.
This 8 oz bottle contains a coconut scent that adds an enjoyable outdoor experience while the easy application allows you to see any missed spots.
Oxybenzone and octinoxate free, it’s also cruelty-free and free of gluten, parabens, PABA, retinyl palmitate, BHT, PBA, or dyes.
With just enough protection from UVA/UVB rays (SPF 15), this product helps keep you safe in the sun while giving you a healthy tan without burning up!
It is important to use caution when using this sunscreen as overexposure may still lead to burns despite proper usage.
Some bottles have arrived gel-like, which renders them useless, so check packaging before purchasing if possible.
- Lightweight & Non-Greasy Formula
- Coconut Scent Adds Enjoyable Outdoor Experience
- Easy Application Allows You to See Missed Spots
- Cruelty-Free & Gluten-Free Formulation
- Enough Protection From UVA/UVB Rays (SPF15)
- Overexposure May Still Lead To Burns Despite Proper Usage
- Packaging Differs In Some Bottles – Check Before Purchasing If Possible
Neutrogena Sensitive SPF 60+
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Try Neutrogena Sensitive SPF 60+ for superior broad-spectrum protection that soothes your skin with its lightweight, hypoallergenic formula. This mineral sunscreen lotion contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to protect against UVA/UVB rays.
It’s fragrance-free, oil-free, and water-resistant up to 80 minutes. The Purescreen technology absorbs, reflects, and scatters rays while providing natural-looking coverage.
With no offensive smell or irritation, it is ideal for those with sensitivities who want to go outdoors without fear of sunburns or rashes caused by other sunscreens.
- Protects sensitive skin from burns & UV damage
- Hypoallergenic & free of fragrances/oils that irritate the skin
- Provides superior broad-spectrum protection
- Leaves a white cast on the skin
- Transfers easily onto surfaces like doorknobs
- May be too greasy
Surface Sunscreen SPF 30
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For an all-around sun protection solution, look no further than Surface Sunscreen SPF 30. This lightweight and non-greasy formula provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a reef-safe combination of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
It absorbs quickly without leaving any residue or white cast while also helping to soothe sensitive skin thanks to its hypoallergenic, oil-free, fragrance-free formula.
With up to 80 minutes of water resistance, it makes for the perfect companion on your beach vacation or outdoor activities!
- Lightweight and non-greasy sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Reef safe with titanium dioxide & zinc oxide
- Hypoallergenic; oil-free; fragrance-free – ideal for those with sensitivities
- Up to 80 minutes water resistant – great for swimming & other outdoor activities
- Subtly covers blemishes without looking heavy on the skin
- Not as spreadable as other sunscreens
- Does not list ‘fragrance’ as an ingredient when it contains one
Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion
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Experience the luxurious tanning of Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion without worrying about burning, as this formula contains SPF 4 sun protection. This multi-action lotion combines antioxidants and moisturizing oils with a tropical fragrance for an indulgent experience that won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Oxybenzone and octinoxate free, it’s also cruelty-free and gluten-, paraben-, PABA-, retinyl palmitate-, BHT-free, PBA-free, or dye-free. It’s water-resistant up to 80 minutes, which helps keep you safe from the sun longer, while its lightweight, non-greasy feel makes application easy without leaving behind any residue on your skin.
Not only does its pleasant scent make it preferred over other brands, but it also allows you to achieve a deep tan while preventing burns in minimal amounts required per application compared to competitors’ products due to the lower SPF rating.
- Multi-action lotion combining antioxidants & moisturizing oils
- Oxybenzone & Octinoxte Free; Cruelty-Free; Gluten/Paraben/PABA/Retinyl Palmitate/BHT/PBA/-Free or Dye-Free
- Water Resistant (80 min); Lightweight Non-Greasy Feel
- Low SPF Rating (4); More UV Rays Allowed Through Than Higher Level Protection
- Minimal Amounts Per Application Compared To Competitors
How to Use Sunscreen for Tanning?
To get the most out of your tanning session, make sure to use sunscreen that offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and provides long-lasting water resistance.
- Choose an SPF 30+ or higher with adequate protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
- Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours.
- Look for non-greasy formulas that won’t leave behind white residue on the skin – especially important for the face/scalp area!
- Invest in reef-friendly products if spending time near ocean environments!
Reapply after swimming or toweling off. Choose a formula without drying ingredients such as alcohols or fragrances, which can cause irritation even when using an SPF30 product specifically designed for tanning purposes.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Tanning?
When selecting a sunscreen for tanning, make sure to choose one with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and an SPF that suits your needs – whether it’s 30+, 50, or 15.
- Water resistance – Look for sunscreens that have water-resistant properties so you can stay in the sun longer without needing constant reapplication.
- Tanning oils – If you want to get a golden glow quickly, look out for tanning oils that contain natural ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter oil, which will nourish your skin while boosting its radiance naturally!
- Sun protection – Make sure the sunscreen offers adequate SPF levels of at least 15-30+ depending on how long you’ll be spending in the sunshine and what activities you’ll be doing during this time, e.
- Reef-friendly – For those heading off on tropical vacations, check if your chosen product is reef-safe, as some chemicals used in lotions can damage coral reefs over time!
- Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen – Consider using Hawaiian Tropic’s lightweight formula with its pleasant coconut scent, offering up 80 minutes of water resistance protection against UV rays, helping prolong a healthy-looking tan safely without burning!
How Does Sunscreen Help and Why Should You Use It?
Sunscreen is an essential part of any tanning routine. It protects your skin from sunburns and premature aging, as well as protecting against UVA/UVB rays. With the right sunscreen, you can enjoy a beautiful tan without risking damage to your skin.
Sunscreens with SPF 30+ are recommended for optimal protection, while lower levels allow some tanning but provide less protection. Look for water-resistant formulas that provide broad-spectrum coverage and contain nourishing oils such as aloe vera or coconut oil, so it moisturizes while providing UV defense.
Some recommended sunscreens are: Sun Bum Original SPF 30, Australian Gold SPF 50 Moisture Max Lotion, Coppertone Sunscreen SPF 15, Sol de Janeiro Glow Oil, Loreal Paris Sublime Sun SPF 30 Oil Spray, Cardon SPF Sunscreen Moisturizer Cream, Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 15, Neutrogena Sensitive SPF 60+ Surface Sunscreen SPF 30, and Panama Jack Tanning Lotion.
Applying sunscreen generously every two hours ensures maximum benefit – don’t forget to reapply after swimming! By choosing the right product and applying it according to directions, you can safely get a perfect golden summer glow without worrying about sun damage or burn prevention.
Understanding the Role of SPF in Tanning
Understanding SPF levels can be overwhelming, but choosing the right sunscreen before tanning is essential for protecting your skin from sun damage – and it doesn’t have to take a million years!
| SPF Level | Tan Result | Protection |
|---|
How Does Sunscreen Lotion Work on the Skin?
Slather on sunscreen to protect your skin and get a healthy glow with the help of broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection! Sunscreen lotion works by providing a physical barrier between the skin and the sun’s rays.
A good sunscreen should contain antioxidants like Vitamin E that hydrate the skin while protecting it from harmful radiation. It also acts as an additional layer of protection when used in combination with other tanning products, such as oils or self-tanner creams.
Sunscreens are available in different SPF levels according to individual needs – for maximum benefit, use at least SPF 30+. Reapply regularly throughout the day for optimal coverage, especially after swimming or sweating profusely.
With proper use, you can enjoy long-term sun safety without sacrificing that natural summer radiance!
The Importance of Sunscreen in Winter
It’s important to wear sunscreen in winter as well, since even on overcast days, UVA rays still penetrate the atmosphere and can cause skin damage. Research shows that up to 80% of UV radiation is not blocked by clouds! Sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher should be applied all year round.
Wearing sunscreen during colder months also helps protect against premature aging from sun exposure. Vitamin D is essential for our health, but it’s possible to get enough Vitamin D without risking serious sunburns and premature photoaging.
For the best protection against both UVA/UVB rays in wintertime, board-certified dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum formula with at least SPF 30 daily. This level will help block most of the damaging UV radiation while allowing you to safely produce some vitamin D too.
Remember to reapply every two hours if spending extended time outdoors or after swimming or sweating for maximum protection throughout the day.
Fun Fact: the Evolution of Sunscreens
Believe it or not, using sunscreen has been around since ancient times – a true testament to its effectiveness and importance! Ancient Egyptians used oils from rice, jasmine, and lupine plants for protection against the sun.
In more recent history during World War II, soldiers in South Pacific Islands applied coconut oil mixed with red clay as an effective shield from damaging UVA rays.
Fast-forward to modern day where we have water-resistant sunscreen that is easy to apply while providing essential sunshine safety. Tanning oils are also popular these days for those wanting a natural bronze look without the risk of skin aging or damage due to UVB exposure.
Sunscreen is now available in different SPF levels too, so you can find the best one tailored towards your tanning needs, such as SPF 30+, 50+, or 15+.
Does Sunscreen Reduce the Effectiveness of Tanning?
While tanning can give you a beautiful, healthy glow, it’s important to remember that sunscreen helps protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays and should be applied before any sun exposure. SPF ratings indicate the level of protection provided; higher SPF slows tanning but provides greater protection against burning.
Here are three tips for using sunscreen to combat a burn while still achieving the perfect tan:
- Choose quality products like Sun Bum Original SPF 30 or Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Reef Friendly Lotion Sunscreen with an appropriate rating for your desired result.
- Apply generously and reapply frequently when swimming or sweating so that its protective effects remain strong throughout your time in the sun.
- Mix with self-tanner or use products such as Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion specifically formulated to darken skin without the risk of burning – allowing you to take control of how much color you get!
Ultimately, if used correctly, sunscreen is an essential part of any successful skincare routine – allowing safe outdoor enjoyment all year round!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can I stay in the sun with sunscreen?
With sunscreen, you can enjoy the sun safely! Its protective layer blocks UVA/UVB rays and keeps skin damage at bay. Reapply every 2 hours for maximum protection; stay safe in water for up to 80 minutes.
How often should I reapply sunscreen when tanning?
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or even more often if swimming; its powerful protection will keep you safe from sunburn and damage.
Are tanning oils safe?
Tanning oils may appear safe, but they can increase sun exposure. Their oils attract UV rays, stimulating melanin production for a faster tan – however, this often leads to skin damage and sunburns. Always use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher when using tanning oil to ensure protection against UVA/UVB rays.
Are self-tanning products better than tanning in the sun?
Self-tanning products offer a safe, streak-free bronze look without the sun damage associated with tanning. They provide broad-spectrum UV protection and can hydrate and nourish the skin while providing an intense glow.
Compared to tanning in the sun, self-tanner is a healthier alternative that still offers natural beauty benefits.
Are there any other ways to protect my skin from the sun?
Wear a hat and sunglasses, cover up with clothing when possible, seek shade during peak sun hours (12-4 pm), and take regular breaks to reduce UV exposure. Apply sunscreen every two hours or more if swimming; use an SPF 30+ for adequate protection.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, it’s important to understand that no sunscreen can replace the safety of staying out of the sun’s direct rays. However, if you must tan, protecting your skin with a high-quality sunscreen is essential.
The 10 best sunscreens for tanning in 2023 are some of the best products on the market, offering broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. From the reef-safe Sun Bum Original SPF 30 to the Neutrogena Sensitive SPF 60+ and the Panama Jack Tanning Lotion with SPF 4, these sunscreens provide the best protection and nourish your skin with antioxidants, moisturizing oils, and tropical scents.
Make sure to apply the sunscreen generously and reapply as needed to keep your skin safe and healthy while you get your perfect tan.
