Best Sunscreens For Tanning 2021
Do you often find yourself under the Sun or water pool? Are you worried about tanning? Why don't you consider sunscreen lotions? There are different sunscreen lotions for extra skin, such as dark, medium, white. They are more effective in protecting the skin from tanning and provide you a healthy golden tan. So, there is no need to worry about the tanning factor anymore!
Sunscreen for tanning is specifically designed to withstand even the harsh sun lights and locks the skin's moisture because it is formulated with different minerals and oils!
However, choosing the reliable suntan lotion for your skin might be difficult as they are available in different brands and types.
To help you out, we have listed the best and reliable sunscreens for tanning below.
Why You Need Sunscreen?
Whenever we come under the Sun for tanning, there are UV rays that are absorbed by the skin. At times, they are the reason for some skin issues.
The UV rays classified into two: UVA and UVB rays
The outer skin problems like redness and sunburns are mostly caused by UVB rays. On the other hand, UVA rays can induce the Melanin of the skin by getting deep into it, which is behind skin pigmentation and tanning.
So, the sunscreen lotion protects the skin from burning from these UV rays.
With this lotion, we can control the tanning effect and grab the actual tan we need. It can be used whenever and wherever, like before going out or heading to the beach, etc.
However, it is crucial to know about different sunscreen lotions to choose the best one that works well on our skin tone.
What to Know About Tanning Lotions?
When you prepare your skin for tanning, you need to grab the sunscreen lotion that suits your skin. There are different sunscreens with different features and aspects. However, not all creams provide excellent tan without spoiling the skin.
The best sunscreen lotions only provide complete skin protection for a couple of hours, along with tanning. These are the only ways to achieve the results without burning skin or excessive damages.
1. Sun Protection Factor
Sun Protection Factor is simply known as SPF, a measuring gauge that decides skin protection against UV rays. This is infused with sunscreen lotions to protect the skin. The sunscreen with high spectrum SPF can last a couple of hours, while a low SPF only stays a few hours on the skin.
However, a low range SPF makes you tan faster than a high range. It means you'll need to be more careful about getting sunburn.
Also, estimate the time that you will spend under the Sun and use a sunscreen lotion depending on that. Don't use sunscreen that doesn't last until the time you spend. This is because you have to ensure it lasts a longer period before buying and using it.
2. Chemical vs Physical Sunscreens
Sunscreen's applications and effects vary from each brand, especially in sun protection. This can be classified into two Chemical and Physical.
Chemical sunscreen absorbs UV rays into the skin, which later convert into heat and are released through your body so that it will never damage your skin, but it takes time to get into the skin. Most brands come up with this option for complete skin protection and a tanning effect without damaging the skin. This has to be applied at least 20 mins before sun exposure or water.
On the other hand, the physical sunscreen only stays on the skin's outer layer. This is infused with zinc oxide, which acts as a barrier to the skin that reflects UV radiation from the Sun. This will also leave a white cast even if you applied adequately. So, proper and frequent reapplication is required as it can wear off quickly in sun exposure.
3. Broad-Spectrum SPF
You can't expect the same formulation from all the sunscreens on the market today. As mentioned, your skin will get damaged from both the UVA and UVB rays. Some lotions are only meant to protect the skin from any one of these rays.
But, sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF can fight against both rays. Your skin will benefit from these types in general, but not opt for tanning effects because this will guard your skin completely and won't allow the rays to penetrate the skin. So, there is no chance of tanning naturally.
If it's hard to get tan, you can switch to sunscreen with low or no UV protection for faster results.
4. Points to Consider for Sunscreen
It is easy to get tanned skin, but it's difficult to grab it without damaging the skin. This is because precaution is necessary before going under the Sun. So, there are some factors that you need to keep in mind when planning for tanning in a natural way.
Sunscreen can guard the skin against sun rays only for a certain period. But prolonged sun exposure may increase the risk of skin problems such as skin cancer, etc. If it's a case, choosing the broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion is a wise decision to protect your skin from such risks.
When deciding to step out, check out the temperature and weather conditions for the day. We advised you not to expose yourself between 11 to 3 pm because you'll feel intense heat during these hours.
Even if the day is cloudy or dim, don't forget to apply sunscreen on your skin because the radiation can penetrate through clouds.
5. Reapplication
A great way to keep your skin safe is to apply sunscreen lotion frequently when you are outside. As the sunscreen only lasts up to a certain period, like 80 minutes, it is better to reapply the lotion before it wears off, especially in swimming. Even if it is water-resistant, you need to reapply it before it reaches its durable time.
Make sure that you are always applying the right amount of lotion that professionals recommend. Use the suggested amount to cover your entire body.
Try to apply the lotion as much as you can to make an even skin tone. Make sure that you've covered all your body before leaving out.
6. Face Application
Generally, our face is too sensitive, so it is crucial to give the right and best sunscreen that suits that. So, go for the ones that are non-comedogenic and blemish-free. If you also want to cover fine lines along with tanning, choose sunscreen with all these aspects.
Before buying the lotion, it is necessary to do a patch test near your jawline to know whether it will work for you.
1. Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Oil Spray SPF 30
Our Pick
The spray-on sunscreen from Hawaiian Tropic is infused with oil for healthy tanning without skipping the skin protection. It also contains antioxidants to nourish the skin while tanning. This comes with a spray bottle, making the application process easier and mess-free. Now it is possible to grab tanning without irritating the skin with its sunscreen.
This is infused with high SPF that protects you from the harmful radiation of the Sun. So, this would be the best choice for someone who wants to darken the skin without compromising their skin health.
Pros
- Mess-free application
- Easy to use
- Water-resistant
- Antioxidants for nourishes the skin
- SPF for preventing skin from sun damages
- Includes spray bottle on the package
Cons
- Expensive
Bestseller (lists)
Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Dry Oil Continuous Spray, SPF 30, 5.2 oz Beauty & Personal Care
- 1 Piece - 6 Ounce (177ml)
- With Skin-Nourishing Anti-Oxidants
- Water Resistant (Up To 80 Min)
- UVA & UVB Protection ... Read More
2. Bain de Soleil Mega Tanning Lotion SPF 4
Bain de Soleil's Mega Tanning Lotion is ideal for an even darker tan. It includes a self-tanner that helps enhance the color for an intense and even tan.
The added benefit of this sunscreen lotion is its moisturizing effect that keeps your skin soft and smooth!
It is dermatologist-tested, paraben-free, and excellent for sensitive skin.
Pros
- Comes with self-tanner
- Easy to apply
- No sticky
- Moisture the skin
- Provides even tan
Cons
- It makes pale complexions too dark
Bestseller (lists)
Bain De Soleil Mega Tanning Lotion SPF 4, 4 oz Sunscreen For The Beach Beauty & Personal Care
- Mega tan sunscreen with self-tanner
- Helps to develop a deep, long-lasting tan
- Effective formula that speeds up tanning ... Read More
3. Caribbean Sol 100% Sol Natural Guard SPF 15
All-Natural Formula
Are you looking for a sunscreen with a vegan option? Try out the Caribbean Sol because this is natural and formulated with zinc oxide to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays.
The sunscreen by the Caribbean Sol is biodegradable down to its packaging. It is also infused with cooling the extract to keep the skin cooler.
So, this is the best choice for the ones who are very conscious about their environmental impacts. It is waterproof, paraben-free, and cruelty-free.
Pros
- Added natural ingredients
- Waterproof
- Biodegradable packaging
- Safe
- Zinc oxide for UVA & B protection
Cons
- It is expensive than others
Bestseller (lists)
Caribbean Sol - Sol Guard All Natural Sunscreen, SPF 15, 4oz. Travel Size Beauty
- Hawaii Reef / USVI “Toxic 3 O’s” Law Compliant
- Biodegradable Dye Free Formula
- Chemical & Cruelty Free
- Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and Paraben Free
- Made in the USA ... Read More
4. Australian Gold Sunscreen Lotion with Kona Coffee SPF 30
Australian Gold Sunscreen Lotion gives you an instant bronze tan. These ingredients like sunflower seed oil and cocoa seed butter effectively moisturize the skin while tanning.
It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes after application of the cream, allowing you to stay under the sun for a little longer period. It can also be used during water activities to protect the skin.
Pros
- Not tested on animals
- Paraben-free
- Excellent for all skin types
- Moistures the skin
- Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
Cons
- This does not opt for face application
Bestseller (lists)
Australian Gold Sunscreen Lotion with Kona Coffee Infused Bronzer SPF 30, 8 Ounce | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant Beauty & Personal Care
- Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection
- Oil-free formula
- Native Australian Acacia Extract provides antioxidant benefits
- Water Resistant – 80 minutes
- Australian Gold signature fragrance
- Product images feature new packaging, packaging of products shipped may vary ... Read More
5. Banana Boat Deep Tanning Oil SPF 4
You can avail of a dark tan with this sunscreen tanning oil from Banana Boat. Added banana extract and cocoa butter for smoother skin.
As it is also water-resistant it lasts up to 80 minutes in water. This is packed with a spritz bottle, allowing you to apply the oil easily.
Pros
- Safe
- Water-resistant
- Mess-free application
- Its different extracts make the skin soft and smooth
- Provides easy tanning solution
Cons
- It has a low SPF, which contributes to burning
Bestseller (lists)
Banana Boat Deep Tanning Spray SPF 4, 8 Ounces (Value Pack of 2) Beauty
- Banana Boat Deep Tanning Spray SPF 4, 8 Ounces (Value Pack of 2) ... Read More
6. Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
The sunscreen lotion from the Neutrogena has higher SPF, an excellent defense against skin cancer from prolonged sun exposure. This also a perfect solution for pool lover as this absorb into the skin deeply without leaving any greasy residue.
It is waterproof and can apply it every 2 hours for better results.
Pros
- Broad Spectrum SPF
- Waterproof
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Tanning takes time due to its high SPF
Bestseller (lists)
Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 30, Oil-Free and PABA-Free Oxybenzone-Free Sunscreen Lotion, UVA/UVB Sun Protection, SPF 30, 6.7 fl. oz Beauty & Personal Care
- 6.7-fluid ounce bottle of Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant Body Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 30 to help prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer caused by the sun when used as directed
- Formulated with Helioplex sunscreen technology, this oil-free body sunscreen provides superior broad spectrum protection against skin-aging UVA rays and skin-burning UVB rays
- Packaging and formulation may vary. Fast-absorbing sunscreen lotion features an oil-free, PABA-free an... Read More
7. Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion SPF 4
Panama Jack is one of the easiest ways for getting tan. This is the best choice for someone who wants to attain tanning more healthily faster. This lotion will give protection for up to 80 minutes, so you can apply this before going out or swimming.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- It lasts up to 80 minutes
- Free of cruelty
- Safe from reef
Cons
- It has a low SPF, which is not suitable for fair skin tone.
Bestseller (lists)
Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion - SPF 4, Reef-Friendly, PABA, Paraben, Gluten & Cruelty Free, Antioxidant Moisturizing Formula, Water Resistant (80 Minutes), 6 FL OZ (Pack of 1) Beauty
- MULTI-ACTION FORMULA: Our Panama Jack sunscreen lotions delicately combines antioxidants with moisturizing oils and a tropical fragrance in a reef-friendly formula that helps you reach your tanning potential
- DESIGNED FOR SUN & OCEAN LOVERS: Helping to achieve a deep, luxurious tan, this multi-functional suntan lotion is Cruelty Free and does NOT contain: PABA, Gluten, Paraben, Retinyl Palmitate, Octinoxate or Oxybenzone
- CONTAINS MINIMAL SUNSCREEN: With SPF 4 (Sun Protect... Read More
8. Coppertone Tanning Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 8
Coppertone has been specially developed for sun protection, and it has no exception. This will come up with enough SPF, so it will tan the skin without burning it.
This lotion nourishes the skin after tanning as it contains vitamin E and antioxidants.
Pros
- It is water-resistant
- It won't be sticky
- Perfect tanning solution without burning the skin
Cons
- Some will not like this lotion smell
Bestseller (lists)
Coppertone Tanning Lotion SPF 8 Sunscreen-8 oz, 2 pack Beauty & Personal Care
- ... Read More
9. Ocean Potion Suncare Dark Tanning Lotion SPF 4
The sunscreen lotion from Ocean Potion contains Aloe vera for skin protection and anti-aging. This will deeply stick into the skin and doesn't leave residue outside.
The added benefit of the lotion is it is cruelty-free.
Pros
- Excellent tanning solution
- Cruelty-free
- Impressive SPF
Cons
- Added parabens
Bestseller (lists)
10. NO-AD Protective Tanning Lotion SPF 8
This sunscreen lotion includes high spectrum SPF to provide exact tanning that you look for more than others. Like others, it is waterproof and lasts up to 80 minutes, so there is no need to worry about the effects of water.
One of the best things about this lotion is it is infused with aloe vera extract to keep the moisture level under the Sun.
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Paraben-free
- Moisture the skin
Cons
- Only available in some stores
Bestseller (lists)
NO-AD Protective Tanning Lotion, SPF 8, 16 fl oz - 2pc Beauty
- Pack of 2 bottles, Each bottle is 16 ounce
- Non-Greasy, Quick Absorption, Paraben-Free
- Enriched with carrot extract to help promote tan development
- NO-AD for a beautiful tan! ... Read More
Can you use sunscreen for tanning?
When we think about the sunscreens, the first thing that comes into the mind is it protects the skin from sun damages.
What about sunscreens for tanning? Do they really work well on the skin? Can we get a tan with this product?
These are the most common questions about sunscreens for tanning. And the answer would be yes.
But it would depend on the sunscreen that you use. You can grab super-duper tanning with the right product.
For that, you'll need to spend a little time under the Sun. Also, it is important to choose a sunscreen with the right SPF that suits your skin.
Why Is Sunscreen Important?
Sunscreen is skin-friendly as it protects the skin efficiently.
They are primary sources that cause various skin problems to your skin such as irritation, redness, cancer, etc. This is because using sunscreen is very crucial when you are under the Sun.
The UVA rays can penetrate different shades and glasses as well. It means it will also affect the skin even when you are not directly exposed to the Sun. If it's a case, you still need to apply sunscreen even not exposed yourself to the Sun. Your skin from UV rays. There are two different rays, as we discussed before.
Besides, this also works well on sensitive skin and prevents wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, sunburn, and damages.
Is there a Best SPF for tanning?
The sunscreens and their SPF factor can totally depend on the skin tone and type that you have.
For instance, if you have light brown skin, then sunscreen with SPF 50 might be the right tanning choice.
So, there is no need to worry about sun effects, allowing you to grab a tan naturally without any skin issues.
When to use sunscreen?
Apply every day before going out, even in the winter season.
Why is sunscreen important in winter?
Most people might not be aware of this factor, and even you feel cloudy during the winter season, the UV rays can easily pass through that and damage your skin. This is because it is important to apply sunscreen even in winter.
Not just that, the sunscreens also prevent skin from various skin problems such as dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Sunscreen Sprays Vs Cream
Did you ever ask this question yourself? But this has raised so many people. So, we started researching this and ended up knowing the actual difference between the two.
On top of that, the difference is not in their effects because they are still sunscreens at the end of the day and will do their job accordingly when it's handled properly.
But where does its problem lie? Obviously! In their texture and how you use them.
Probably! it is better to use sunscreen sprays over cream. But this might not be the right tanning option.
If you are overthinking its aspects, how handy it is, you'll end up with disappointment when it comes to the tanning.
You may think they can grab a tan easily, but, on the other hand, in the same way, tanning would wash out from your skin.
For this, we suggest you go for the creamy-based sunscreen overspray for a more extended result.
Conclusion
The best sunscreens for tanning should prevent skin from sun damage along with tanning skin naturally.
When we think about the benefits and applications, sunscreen from Hawaiian might be the right choice as it is oil-based and the best for tanning. Not just that, this will also make your skin tanning on the beach. Since this contains high SPF, tan your skin naturally and protect it from harmful rays. So, there is no need to worry even if you should stay under the Sun for a bit longer.
As this is a spray, you can apply it anywhere, even without bothering or struggling with things. And also, it won't stick to the skin and provide you a mess-free application. This is ideal for someone who wants to tan their skin temporarily.
If you are conscious about the environment, go with the sunscreen from the Caribbean because they are formulated with 100% natural ingredients with biodegradable packaging. So, this would be the best choice if you prefer tanning frequently. This comes with cooling effects that keep the skin relaxing even under the Sun, so you'll never feel sticky in the longer run.
But if you are not worried about any factors, just aiming for a dark tan, you can choose a Bain de Soleil Dark Tanning Lotion. It comes with self -tanner to the instant skin tan by enhancing the color that you need. This is dermatologist tested, so you don't worry about any skin effects. This is ideal for any skin type, even for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Finally, sunscreens are essential to protect the skin from any damages. Make sure that you are carrying sunscreens along with you when you step out.
So, always apply the lotion liberally before exposing yourself to the Sun!
We hope this article is useful enough for you! On this list, you can choose the best one that suits your skin. In case of any doubts, leave your comment below; we will get back to you as soon as possible.
