10 Best Sunscreens for Tanning to Get That Sun-kissed Glow

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Apr 05, 2024
Sunscreen for Tanning to Get That Sun-Kissed Glow
Sunscreen for Tanning to Get That Sun-Kissed Glow
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A comprehensive skincare routine has become integral to healthy living in today's world. Rightly so because the skin is the human body's largest and most delicate organ which you can protect using the best sunscreen for tanning. Determining the right products is critical to maintaining healthy skin. Although several products in the market solve different skin-related problems, sunscreens provide the elementary line of defense. Anyone who wants to obtain flawless skin even during extreme weather conditions must apply sunscreen for skin care

Many people like to get some sun and love the tan on their bodies. However, too much exposure to glaring sunlight can undoubtedly damage your skin. Therefore, you must protect your skin by using sunscreen for tanning. The old-fashioned, thick, and oily sunscreens used to make tanning feel like a chore. Nowadays, cutting-edge formulas provide a comprehensive shield from harmful sun rays. These sunscreens are simple to apply and feel light on the skin, with a variety of choices available such as lotions, sprays, and oils. They also help prevent premature aging and skin cancer while still allowing you to get a tan. So, let's delve deeper to learn more about the best tanning sunscreen.

11 Best Sunscreens for Tanning

Experience the ultimate in sun protection and tanning with Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with this Instant Bronzer. The unique combination of Kakadu plum, vitamin C, and tea tree oil makes this sunscreen an excellent choice for those who want to give their skin some extra care. Not only does it nourish and rejuvenate your skin, but the oil-free and non-greasy formula also ensures that your pores won't feel clogged. Also, this sunscreen contains a caramel bronzer that instantly adds a golden tint to your skin, giving you the perfect tan! It is undoubtedly among the best bronzing sunscreens on the market. The best part? It is PABA-free, dye-free, alcohol-free, and gluten-free, making it suitable for all skin types.

SPF: 50

Skin type: All

Pros
  • SPF 50 protects from UVA and UVB rays
  • Sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
  • Infused with rich natural ingredients
  • Comes with instant bronzer
Cons
  • It might not give a natural look for a very fair skin tone
  • Best For Skin Nourishment

    Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen

    Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen
  • Introducing the Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen, a luxurious formula that pampers your skin like no ordinary sunscreen. Experience a sensory journey with this rare blend of nature's rich tanning oils that deeply nourish and soften the skin while providing sun protection. This sunscreen offers a rich coconut fragrance that evokes the feeling of being on a tropical island. It's specially formulated to contain skin-loving ingredients that cater to all your sun protection needs. You will be amazed to learn that this sunscreen contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate. In addition, the Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen comes in a lotion form that makes it easy to apply on the whole body.

    SPF: 4

    Skin type: Sensitive

    Pros
    • Deep skin nourishment
    • Coconut fragrance
    • Contains rich tanning oils
    • Easy to get the perfect tan
    Cons
    • Low SPF level
  • Powerful Sun Protection

    Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen - SPF 40

    Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen - SPF 40
  • Say hello to Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen - SPF 40, is the game-changing sunscreen that provides comprehensive sun protection for all skin types, tones, and lifestyles. This weightless and invisible sunscreen is completely scent-free and perfect for use as a makeup primer. It also offers beard-friendly sun protection for men. With its oil-free formula, it helps to control shine and leave a velvety, makeup-gripping finish. You can apply it generously and evenly as the last step in your skincare routine. This antioxidant-rich facial sunscreen helps to filter blue light, UVA, UVB, and IRA rays, providing a super-powered primer with broad-spectrum protection. It also contains clean and powerful ingredients like soothing frankincense and hydrating meadowfoam seed that nourishes and protects your skin. You can comfortably say goodbye to traditional sunscreens that leave a greasy residue and welcome this best sunscreen to tan.

    SPF: 40

    Skin type: All

    Pros
    • Beard-friendly
    • High SPF level
    • Oil-free formula
    • Rich in antioxidants
    Cons
    • No fragrance
  • Best For Easy Application

    Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Spray

    Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Spray
  • Experience a comfortable and effective way to tan under the sun with Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Spray. This sunscreen spray provides even coverage and quick-drying protection against UVA/UVB rays. Its broad-spectrum SPF 15 formula is perfect for dry skin types and is free from dyes, oxybenzone, and PABA. The continuous spray feature allows easy application without clogging pores or causing breakouts. One of the most interesting features this sunscreen offers is the 80 minutes of water resistance, making it ideal for a day spent by the beach or pool. Enjoy the scent of Coppertone as you bask in the sun and achieve a natural-looking tan. Try it today!

    SPF: 15

    Skin type: Dry

    Pros
    • Long-term protection
    • Water and sweat-resistant
    • No oxybenzone
    • Up to 80 minutes of water resistance
    Cons
    • Only for dry skin type

    Quick Tip

    It is advised to use 35 ml of sunscreen on your body every day for maximum protection from the sun.

  • Natural Finish

    Sun Bum Browning Lotion

    Sun Bum Browning Lotion
  • Get that perfect sun-kissed look with the Sun Bum Browning Lotion. This premium browning lotion accelerates the sun-triggered tanning process in your skin. This water-resistant and reef-friendly lotion is ideal for all skin types. It includes aloe vera, Kona coffee plant extract, marula, argan, coconut, and avocado oil for deep hydration, leaving you with a beautiful and even tan. For best results, apply the sunscreen first, wait ten minutes, and then lather your body in this browning lotion. Lounge in the sun and reapply as needed. Protect and moisturize your skin with this original sunscreen line, free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, gluten, cruelty, and parabens.

    SPF: 15

    Skin type: Sensitive

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Vegan friendly
    • Suitable for multiple skin types
    • Contains coffee plant extract
    Cons
    • Slightly expensive
  • Best Mineral Sunscreen

    Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion

    Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion
  • Introducing Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, the perfect sun protection solution for those with sensitive skin. With an SPF rating of over 60, this oil-free sunscreen lotion provides superior broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sun protection. It is ultra-light and goes evenly on your skin. In addition, it contains the Purescreen formula to absorb, reflect, and scatter dangerous sun rays. This sunscreen doubles up as face and body cream. This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes!

    SPF: 60

    Skin type: Sensitive

    Pros
    • Oil-free formula
    • Ideal for sensitive skins
    • High SPF protection
    • Ultra-light feeling
    Cons
    • Unscented
  • Moisturising Formula

    Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen Oil Spray

    Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen Oil Spray
  • Indulge in the luxurious experience of Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen Oil Spray. Infused with exotic island botanicals, this sunscreen spray features a rare blend of nature's rich oils, leaving your skin soft, supple, and radiant after application. This spray offers comprehensive protection against the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays, ensuring that your skin remains safe from potential damage as you get tanned. Additionally, it contains a blend of antioxidants that work to nourish and protect your skin. This sunscreen spray has a lightweight feel and is perfect for those with dry skin. The pleasant coconut scent adds to the tropical experience and leaves you feeling soothed and refreshed. To note, SPF 15 may not suffice for fair skin tones, so consider using another sunscreen with the same SPF for desirable protection against sun rays. 

    SPF: 15

    Skin type: Dry

    Pros
    • Contains a rare blend of rich oils
    • Lightweight feel
    • Refreshing coconut scent
    • Easy to get a tan
    Cons
    • Best for dry skin type

    Quick Tip

    Due to the dense pigments, ensure to apply it correctly and keep a check of time. Another key point is to reapply it every 2 hours to reap maximum benefits.

  • Best Lightweight

    Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Reef Friendly Lotion Sunscreen

    Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Reef Friendly Lotion Sunscreen
  • To get that perfect golden tan without worrying about harming the reefs, the Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Reef Friendly Lotion Sunscreen is a perfect choice. This lotion is made without oxybenzone and octinoxate so that it won't harm the delicate balance of our ocean's reefs. The aloe vera-enriched formula will soothe and hydrate your skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. Its water-resistant properties allow you to enjoy all outdoor activities without worrying about harmful sun rays. The use of  Vitamin E and other skin-nourishing antioxidants makes it ideal for skin nourishment and protection.

    SPF: 8

    Skin type: All

    Pros
    • Contains Vitamin E
    • Reef-safe
    • Aloe vera-enriched formula
    • Water-resistant
    Cons
    • Low SPF count
  • Quick Drying

    Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion

    Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion
  • Enjoy the sun without compromising skin health with the Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion. This multi-action formula combines antioxidants with moisturizing oils and a tropical fragrance to help you achieve your perfect tan. The sunscreen lotion is oxybenzone and octinoxate-free, ensuring it is safe for your skin and the environment. This sun lotion is a safe choice for those who love animals, as it is cruelty-free and does not contain any parabens, gluten, PABA, retinyl palmitate, BHT, PBA, or dyes. With SPF 4, this lotion is perfect for those with skin types that rarely or never burn. In addition, the water-resistant formula ensures long-lasting protection. However, it's highly recommended to reapply after toweling dry, prolonged swimming, or excessive perspiration.

    SPF: 4

    Skin type: Normal

    Pros
    • Environment friendly
    • Cruelty-free formula
    • Long-lasting protection
    • Doesn’t contain any dye
    Cons
    • Needs frequent reapplication
  • Best Vegan Formula

    Cardon's SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Moisturizer for Men

    Cardon's SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Moisturizer for Men
  • Introducing Cardon's SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Moisturizer for Men! This advanced Korean skincare brand offers premium ingredients designed for modern grooming. It uses cactus extract and chia seed oil for nourishment. It offers a broad-spectrum SPF 30 for protection against UVA & UVB rays without leaving any residue or white cast. The moisturizer serves multiple skin types, including acne-prone, oily, sensitive, and combination skin. The cactus-based formula is popular for its soothing effect. Cardon's Sunscreen Face Moisturizer has received recognition and awards for its effectiveness, including the Ask Men's Grooming Award for Best Face Sunscreen. Join the Cardon self-care conversation today and put your best face forward daily!

    SPF: 30

    Skin type: All

    Pros
    • Invigorating fresh marine scent
    • High SPF protection
    • Cactus-based formula
    • High SPF count for skin protection
    Cons
    • Not for women

    These were some of the best sunscreens for tanning that you can buy to get the perfect tan. However, there are some key considerations to be mindful of to choose the right product. Let’s delve deeper into these considerations.

    What to Consider When Buying Sunscreen for Tanning?

    Choosing the right sunscreen for tanning can be tricky. Our list can certainly help you reduce the noise and create the right pool of products. However, you will need to put some time and effort into making the right pick. Here are some key factors to consider when buying the best tanning sunscreen.

    Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

    The first and most crucial factor to consider is the SPF level. A low SPF will certainly help you with tanning, but it might not be good for the skin. Therefore, you must aim to achieve the right balance between these two factors. Most people often wonder what is the best SPF for tanning. You can choose a sunscreen with a low SPF (between 10-15) as it will allow you to tan but still provide some protection against harmful UV rays.

    Skin Type

    Another important factor to consider is your skin type. For dry skin, a sunscreen tanning lotion with added hydrating, skin-loving ingredients, such as shea butter, aloe vera, and vitamin E would work wonders. At the same time, oily skin would best benefit from a sunscreen containing non-comedogenic ingredients and a lightweight and oil-free formula. If you have sensitive skin or burn easily, opt for a higher SPF and reapply frequently. A good tanning sunscreen must be skin-friendly.

    Water Resistance

    Consider choosing a sunscreen that is resistant to water if you plan to spend a long time in the water, such as swimming in a pool or ocean. This will provide continuous protection for your skin even when it's wet, keeping you safe from the harmful effects of the sun.

    Texture

    Sunscreens are available in different textures — lightweight, gel-like, or spray-on. Choose any based on your requirements and skin type.

    Choice of Ingredients

    Always avoid something you are allergic to when it comes to buying skincare products. Choose a sunscreen that makes you tan but is free of harmful ingredients such as PABA, parabens, and oxybenzone. You can opt for sunscreens that contain antioxidants and moisturizing oils to nourish your skin while you tan.

    Pro Tip

    Apart from the basic ingredients, look for hydrating and nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber, coconut, and honey to keep your skin barrier safe and healthy.

    How to Use Sunscreen for Tanning?

    Let’s delve deeper into how to use sunscreen for tanning to get the best results.

    ·  You must apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before exposing your skin to sun rays.

    ·  It's highly recommended to use a generous amount of sunscreen and apply it evenly to all exposed body parts, including your face, ears, and neck.

    ·  Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if sweating or swimming.

    ·  It's best to apply sunscreen over all your skin, even those covered by clothing, as UV rays can penetrate fabrics.

    ·  Avoid tanning during peak hours when the sunlight is intense, typically between 12 to 4 pm.

    Selecting the best sunscreen for tanning is crucial to attaining a glowing tan while protecting your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, it's important to choose a tanning sunscreen that is designed to be water-resistant. This will ensure that your skin is protected even when you're swimming or sweating. When buying sunscreen you must consider your skin type, desired tanning result, SPF level and water-resistance quotient, ingredients present, etc. After conducting thorough market research, we have compiled this list of the 11 best sunscreens for tanning. There are a variety of options available for everyone's preferences, whether it be lotions, sprays, or oils. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and frequently reapply  to achieve maximum protection and a flawless tan.

    FAQ's

    Is SPF 30 or 50 better for tanning?
    A low SPF count is usually better if your goal is to achieve tanning.
    Do you tan faster with lower SPF?
    Yes, a lower SPF count can help you tan faster. However, it might damage your skin because it offers less protection against harmful sun rays.
    Do you tan slower with higher SPF?
    Yes, using a higher SPF sunscreen can slow down the tanning process. The reason for this is that SPF measures the amount of UVB rays that a sunscreen can block.
    How do you tan and not burn?
    Tanning without burning requires a careful balance of sun exposure and protection.
    Do sunscreens prevent tanning?
    No, sunscreens don’t prevent tanning. They just shield your skin from 100% of UVA radiation.
    Does sunscreen make your skin darker?
    No, but if it darkens your skin, you should consult a dermatologist to check if the sunscreen contains any darkening agents.
    Do you tan quicker without sunscreen?
    Yes, you tan quicker without sunscreen.
    How long does it take to tan with sunscreen?
    It takes around 1-2 hours to tan with sunscreen.
    Does coconut oil help you tan?
    No, coconut oil doesn’t help you tan. Although, it surely provides additional protection from the sun's harmful UV rays.
    Why do some people tan more than others?
    Some people tan more than others because their melanocytes produce more melanin — the brown pigment that causes tanning in the first place.
    Are there sunscreens specifically designed for face and body tanning?
    Yes, there are sunscreens specifically designed for face and body tanning. The facial sunscreens have a milder formula than the ones for the rest of the body.
    Can I use sunscreen with bronzer or self-tanner for enhanced tanning results?
    It is usually best to not use sunscreen with a bronzer or self-tanner, as it may change the measured SPF.
    Why sunscreen is your best bet in skin care?
    Sunscreen is a game-changing skincare product that not only protects your skin from harmful UV rays but also reduces hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and the risk of skin cancer.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    While we all want to safeguard our skin from the nasty impact of UV rays, some of us still want the good stuff that the sun provides — a gorgeous tan! And our in-house skincare expert, Anoushka, has just the answer for this — specialized sunscreens for tanning. To help you get the benefits of these products, she put in meticulous research and curated some of the best products in the market, with a detailed review for your perusal.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reason

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More