Do you dream of a sun-kissed glow, but worry about the sun’s harmful rays? Many people want a tan without getting burned. But finding sunscreen that helps you tan safely can be confusing. You want to avoid sunburn, but you also want to get a nice color. It feels like you have to pick between protection and tanning.
This post is here to help! We’ll explore how to get that healthy-looking tan while keeping your skin safe. You’ll learn about special sunscreens designed for tanning. We’ll break down what to look for and what to avoid. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose the best sunscreen to achieve your tanning goals without the ouch of a sunburn.
Ready to unlock the secrets to a safe and effective tan? Let’s dive in and discover the best sunscreens to help you achieve that golden look!
Our Top 5 Sunscreen To Get A Tan Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Sunscreen To Get A Tan Detailed Reviews
1. b.tan Best Tanning Oil
Rating: 8.9/10
Looking for that deep, dark tan without spending all day in the sun? The b.tan Best Tanning Oil | Get Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray promises fast, intense tanning results for your outdoor sun sessions. This Australian brand’s formula is packed with tan-accelerating actives and super hydrating oils like coconut, argan, and jojoba to give you a glowing bronze. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and free from yucky stuff, so your skin stays happy.
What We Like:
- It’s tinted, so you can see where you’re applying it.
- The tan-accelerating actives help you get a darker tan faster.
- It’s full of moisturizing oils to keep your skin hydrated.
- The spray is easy to apply for an even tan.
- It’s a vegan-friendly product, and they don’t test on animals.
What Could Be Improved:
- This product has no SPF, so you must use separate sunscreen.
- It’s designed for outdoor sun tanning, not indoor beds.
If you want to speed up your tanning game and get a deep bronze glow, this b.tan oil is definitely worth a try. Just remember to protect your skin with sunscreen!
2. Coppertone Sunscreen Tanning Lotion SPF 8
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for a beautiful, sun-kissed glow with Coppertone Sunscreen Tanning Lotion SPF 8! This pack of two 8 fl oz bottles is designed to help you achieve a radiant tan while keeping your skin protected and moisturized. It’s a lightweight formula that feels great on your skin, not greasy at all. Plus, it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for all your outdoor adventures, whether you’re at the beach or lounging by the pool. You can feel good about what you’re putting on your skin too, as it’s free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, dyes, and PABA.
What We Like:
- It’s a lightweight formula that doesn’t feel greasy.
- It’s enriched with Vitamin E to keep your skin moisturized.
- It’s water-resistant for 80 minutes, great for swimming.
- It’s free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, dyes, and PABA.
- You get two bottles, so you’re well-stocked.
What Could Be Improved:
- The SPF 8 might not offer enough protection for all skin types, especially those who burn easily.
- It’s a tanning lotion, so it’s intended to help you tan, not prevent tanning completely.
This Coppertone Tanning Lotion is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their tan while providing some sun protection. It offers a good balance of moisturizing and tanning benefits.
3. GoPong Tropic Tan Sunscreen Bottle Flask 2 Pack (16 oz Total) – Hidden Alcohol Travel Flasks – Secret Liquor Containers for Beaches
Rating: 9.3/10
Planning a trip to the beach, a cruise, or a big game? The GoPong Tropic Tan Sunscreen Bottle Flask 2 Pack is your secret weapon for enjoying your favorite drinks discreetly. These clever flasks look just like regular sunscreen bottles, so no one will suspect a thing. You get two bottles, each holding 8 ounces, giving you a total of 16 ounces – that’s about ten shots! They come with a funnel and spout, making them super easy to fill without making a mess.
What We Like:
- They look like real sunscreen bottles (SPF 8 and SPF 30 designs) so they’re great for hiding your drinks.
- You get two bottles, holding 16 ounces total, which is enough for a good time.
- Filling them up is simple with the included funnel and spout.
- They are made from safe plastic that’s good for your drinks.
- They are perfect for parties, festivals, theme parks, and sporting events.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember to wash them well before you use them the first time.
- While they are designed to fool security, always check the specific rules of the venue you are visiting.
These GoPong sunscreen flasks are a fun and sneaky way to bring your drinks along. They make your adventures even more enjoyable.
4. Jergens Natural Glow Self Tanner Face Moisturizer with SPF 20 Facial Sunscreen
Rating: 8.7/10
Achieve a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow without the sun’s harsh rays with the Jergens Natural Glow Self Tanner Face Moisturizer with SPF 20. This daily moisturizer is designed for medium to deep skin tones, offering a gradual, natural-looking tan while also providing essential sun protection. It’s oil-free and boasts broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, making it a great choice for your daily skincare routine.
What We Like:
- It creates a beautiful, natural-looking fake tan that gradually builds over time.
- The moisturizer provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, keeping your skin safe from the sun.
- It hydrates your skin well and has a light, fresh scent.
- You can skip makeup and enjoy a healthy-looking tone in about a week.
- It’s oil-free and easy to use as a regular face lotion.
What Could Be Improved:
- The packaging may vary, which could be confusing for some.
- The “medium to deep skin tone” might not be dark enough for everyone seeking a deep tan.
This Jergens moisturizer is a fantastic way to get a healthy glow and protect your skin every day. It’s a convenient option for anyone looking for a natural-looking tan and daily sun protection in one easy step.
5. Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen for Face
Rating: 9.5/10
Looking for a daily sunscreen that does more than just protect your skin from the sun? The Australian Gold Botanical SPF 50 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen for Face is a game-changer. It’s a non-chemical BB cream that offers powerful sun protection with a beautiful matte finish. Plus, it’s made with gentle, natural ingredients perfect for sensitive skin. This 3 FL Oz tube is designed for medium to tan skin tones and provides water-resistant coverage.
What We Like:
- It offers strong SPF 50 protection using zinc and titanium, blocking harmful UV rays.
- The tinted formula blends smoothly into medium to tan skin, helping to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- It has a non-greasy, oil-free, and matte finish, doubling as a light foundation for a natural look.
- It’s packed with Australian botanicals like Eucalyptus and Red Algae, which are rich in antioxidants to nourish your skin.
- This sunscreen is hypoallergenic and feels light and refreshing, making it ideal for daily use.
- It’s eco-conscious, being Non-Nano and free from parabens, PABA, phthalates, petroleum, SLS, dyes, and oils.
- It’s dermatologist and pediatrician tested, gluten-free, and never tested on animals.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it blends well, some users might prefer a wider shade range for fairer or deeper skin tones.
- The “water-resistant” claim might require reapplication after prolonged water exposure or heavy sweating.
This Australian Gold Botanical sunscreen is a fantastic option for anyone seeking effective sun protection with added skincare benefits. It’s a great way to protect your skin while looking and feeling your best every day.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for a Golden Glow
What is a “Sunscreen to Get a Tan”?
A sunscreen to get a tan isn’t like your everyday sunscreen that blocks all the sun’s rays. Instead, it’s designed to let in *some* of the sun’s tanning rays (UVA and UVB) while still protecting your skin from getting burned. Think of it as a gentle guide to tanning, not a shield against all sun. It helps you get that lovely sun-kissed look without the ouch of a sunburn.
Key Features to Look For
1. SPF Level: Not too high, not too low.
The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) tells you how well the sunscreen protects you from UVB rays, which cause sunburn. For a tan, you want an SPF that’s not too high. An SPF of 15 to 30 is usually good. Higher SPFs block too much sun, preventing a tan. Lower SPFs might not protect you enough from burning.
2. UVA Protection: Essential for a healthy tan.
UVA rays are the ones that cause tanning and also skin aging. Good tanning sunscreens will have UVA protection too. Look for labels that say “Broad Spectrum” or have a UVA rating (like PA+++).
3. Water Resistance: For beach days and pool fun.
If you plan on swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. This means it will stay on your skin for a certain amount of time (usually 40 or 80 minutes) even when wet. You’ll still need to reapply after swimming or sweating.
4. Ingredients: What’s inside matters.
Look for ingredients that moisturize your skin. Tanned skin looks best when it’s hydrated. Ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or vitamin E can help. Avoid ingredients that might irritate your skin.
Important Materials and What They Do
Common Sunscreen Ingredients
- Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide: These are “physical” blockers. They sit on top of your skin and bounce away sun rays. They are gentle and good for sensitive skin.
- Avobenzone, Octinoxate, and Oxybenzone: These are “chemical” blockers. They soak into your skin and absorb the sun’s rays.
- Moisturizers (e.g., Glycerin, Shea Butter): These keep your skin soft and prevent dryness, which can make a tan look dull.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Tanning Sunscreen Great?
- Even Protection: It should protect you from burning while allowing a gradual tan.
- Moisturizing Formula: Hydrated skin tans better and looks healthier.
- Pleasant Scent: A nice smell makes the experience more enjoyable.
- Easy Application: It should spread smoothly without feeling greasy.
What Can Make it Less Good?
- Too High SPF: Blocks too much sun, preventing tanning.
- Greasy or Sticky Feel: Uncomfortable to wear.
- Irritating Ingredients: Can cause redness or itching.
- Weak UVA Protection: May lead to uneven tanning or premature aging.
User Experience and Use Cases
How to Use It for the Best Tan
Always apply sunscreen before you go into the sun. Put on a good amount, and rub it in well. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Start with a lower SPF and see how your skin reacts. You can gradually move to a slightly lower SPF if you are not burning. Remember, the goal is to tan safely, not to get burned.
When to Use It
- Beach Days: Perfect for relaxing by the ocean.
- Poolside Lounging: Enjoy the sun while staying protected.
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking, picnics, or any time you’re outside.
- Gradual Tanning: If you want a natural-looking tan without tanning beds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I get a tan with regular sunscreen?
A1: Regular sunscreen with a high SPF (like 50 or 100) is designed to block almost all sun rays, so it’s very difficult to get a tan with it. You’d need to use a lower SPF sunscreen specifically made for tanning.
Q2: Will a sunscreen to get a tan still protect me from sunburn?
A2: Yes, it will protect you from burning, but it won’t block as much sun as a high SPF sunscreen. It allows some tanning rays to reach your skin, but it still has protection to prevent a burn if used correctly.
Q3: How often should I reapply sunscreen when trying to tan?
A3: You should reapply every two hours, and also after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. This ensures your skin stays protected.
Q4: Can I use tanning oil instead of sunscreen?
A4: Tanning oils often have very low or no SPF, meaning they offer little protection against sunburn. It’s safer to use a sunscreen designed for tanning, which offers a balance of protection and tanning.
Q5: Does a lower SPF mean I’ll tan faster?
A5: A lower SPF allows more UV rays to reach your skin, which can lead to tanning faster. However, it also increases the risk of burning if you’re not careful. It’s a balance between getting a tan and protecting your skin.
Q6: Is it safe to try and get a tan with sunscreen?
A6: It’s safer than not using any protection, but any time you are trying to tan, you are exposing your skin to UV radiation, which can still cause damage over time. The key is to do it gradually and avoid burning.
Q7: What does “Broad Spectrum” mean on a sunscreen?
A7: “Broad Spectrum” means the sunscreen protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. This is important for both tanning and protecting your skin from damage and aging.
Q8: Can I use this type of sunscreen if I have sensitive skin?
A8: Some tanning sunscreens can be used on sensitive skin, especially those with mineral blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Always check the ingredient list and consider doing a patch test first.
Q9: Will this sunscreen make me orange?
A9: Sunscreens designed for tanning don’t typically make you orange. That color is usually from self-tanning lotions or sprays. These sunscreens work with your skin’s natural tanning process.
Q10: How long does it take to get a tan with a tanning sunscreen?
A10: This depends on your skin type, how much sun you get, and the SPF of the sunscreen. It’s best to tan gradually over several days rather than trying to get dark quickly. Listen to your skin and avoid burning.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.