Best Sun Cream For Tanning (2023 Update)
If you're looking for a way to get a gorgeous tan while still protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, you're not alone. Many people want to hit the beach or the pool and achieve that sun-kissed look without risking the health of their skin. To accomplish this, choosing the best sun cream for tanning is essential.
Before making a decision, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) level. The higher the SPF, the more protection the cream provides against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. However, higher SPF levels may reduce the amount of vitamin D your body can produce, which comes with its own list of health issues. Secondly, the texture of the sun cream matters. For tanning, a lighter, more fluid texture is preferred. Lastly, waterproof sun creams are best if you plan on going into the water.
So, what makes a particular sun cream stand out from the rest? Is it the SPF level, the texture, or the brand name? Is it worth it to spend more money on a premium product, or will an affordable option do just fine? Understanding what each product offers and what your needs are is key to finding the best sun cream for tanning.
Have you found yourself lost in the sunscreen aisle, unsure of which product to pick? Are you wondering what kind of results you can expect after using the best sun cream for tanning? Keep reading to discover tips, reviews, and other suggestions to help you get the beautiful tan you've been dreaming of.
11 Best Sun Cream For Tanning
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The product is ideal for achieving streak-free, sunless tanning results for both the face and body, including exfoliation and application tools.
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2
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This product is ideal for protecting and tanning the skin with SPF20 while providing moisturization.
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3
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This product is ideal for gradual self-tanning with moisturizing and sun protection benefits suitable for medium skin tones.
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4
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This product is ideal for prolonging self-tan with clean, non-toxic sun protection using organic shea butter and botanical ingredients.
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5
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This product is ideal for protecting the skin from the sun and achieving a golden tan.
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6
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This product is ideal for achieving a natural-looking sunless tan on the face for fair to medium skin tones.
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7
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Ideal for outdoor tanning with moderate sun exposure, moisturizing, and protection from harmful UV rays.
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8
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This product is ideal for achieving a natural brown tan on the skin, whether indoors or outdoors using sunbeds.
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9
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It is an ideal sunscreen lotion for protecting your body from harmful sun rays with water resistant and broad spectrum SPF 15.
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10
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This product is ideal for achieving a naturally tanned skin while using outdoor and beach sunbeds.
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11
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The product is ideal for achieving an intensive and long-lasting tan while keeping the skin moisturized and protected.
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1. Flawless Glow Bundle: Ultimate Self Tanning Kit
This self tanner kit is the perfect solution for achieving a flawless, natural-looking tan without any streaks or orange tones. Available in two shades, it is suitable for all skin tones. The all-in-one kit includes everything you need to achieve a perfect tan, including a natural ingredient self tanner, a tanning lotion applicator mitt for body, and tanning gloves applicator for face.
The formula of this self tanner is clean and hydrating, containing non-toxic ingredients that provide fast, long-lasting results that develop in just 4-6 hours. It is formulated with natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin, ensuring a comfortable and easy application process.
In addition to the self tanner lotion, the company offers a wide range of sunless tanning products that cater to different formats, including a face tan lotion, tan cream for body, spray tan, and a tan back applicator.
This kit also includes professional-grade application tools, including an exfoliating mitt, front and back self tanner applicator, and face tanning gloves for an even, streak-free application. These tools ensure that you achieve an even application and avoid any streaking or unevenness.
To make it easy to store and take on the go, all tanning mitts for back, body, and face come packaged in a waterproof pouch. This pouch is also perfect for traveling, ensuring that you can maintain your tan even when you're on the go.
2. Hempz Touch Of Summer Self-Tanning Creme
Looking for a product that will help you achieve a natural-looking glow while also nourishing your skin? Look no further than this amazing self-tanning lotion, enriched with 100% pure natural hemp seed oil.
Not only is this lotion completely paraben-free and gluten-free, but it's also 100% vegan and THC-free, making it a great choice for anyone looking to avoid harsh chemicals or animal products in their skincare routine.
One of the standout features of this self-tanning lotion is its subtle self-tanners, which work to enhance your skin's natural color, tone, and radiance. This means that you can achieve a beautiful, sun-kissed glow without any of the damaging effects of UV rays.
In addition to its self-tanning benefits, this lotion is also incredibly nourishing for your skin. Thanks to the natural hemp seed oil, it provides deep hydration and helps to soothe and calm any irritation or inflammation.
3. Organic Sunless Tanning Defense With Shea Butter
Looking for a natural and effective way to protect your skin from the sun? Look no further than Botanical Sun Defense for Face + Body by Chocolate Sun. This product is designed to provide a physical block against harmful UV rays while also hydrating and calming the skin.
One of the key features of Botanical Sun Defense is its use of organically grown and wild-crafted botanicals and herbs. These ingredients have been specifically chosen for their beneficial and nurturing properties, helping to soothe and hydrate the skin while also protecting it from the sun.
In addition to these natural ingredients, Botanical Sun Defense also contains a combination of minerals that create a physical barrier against the sun's rays. This provides a natural and chemical-free way to protect your skin, without the use of harmful ingredients like mineral oils, dyes, lanolin, parabens, PABA, alcohol, petrochemicals, sodium lauryl sulfate, and formaldehyde.
Not only is Botanical Sun Defense effective and safe, but it is also cruelty-free and vegan. This means that you can feel good about using this product knowing that it has been created without the use of animal products or testing.
4. Bronzo Sensuale Spf 30 Sunscreen Protective Golden Tanning Organic Carrot Lotion 8.5 Ounces.
This product boasts of being made with Certified Organic, Natural, Botanical Ingredients that have been selected for their Anti-Aging and Anti-Wrinkle properties. It is packed with Skin Nourishing Vitamins and Protective Antioxidants that offer a variety of benefits for the skin. Additionally, the product features a Stress Relieving Aromatherapy Botanical Fragrance that creates a relaxing experience during use.
The makers of this product are committed to animal welfare, as it contains NO Animal Testing or Ingredients and has been recommended by PeTA. It is also Vegan Certified, Kosher Compliant, Biodegradable, and Recyclable, making it a guilt-free option for those who wish to reduce their environmental impact.
The product contains NO PABA, NO Parabens, NO Benzophenone, and NO Mineral Oil, making it a safe and gentle option for those with sensitive skin. Its natural ingredients work together to provide users with a healthy and radiant complexion.
5. Beauty By Earth Face Self-Tanner
This face tanner line offers a variety of shades to choose from, allowing users to achieve a natural-looking, customized tan that won't leave them looking unnaturally orange. The quick-drying formula is perfect for those with a busy schedule, as it delivers a glowing bronze in just a few hours. Additionally, this line is vegan, toxin-free, and made in the USA with natural ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize clean and cruelty-free beauty products.
These face tanners come in a variety of formats, including drops and serums, so users can choose the product that best suits their individual needs. The easy-to-apply formula is designed for even coverage and, when used with the exfoliating gloves and tanning mitt, ensures a smooth and natural-looking tan.
This product line stands behind its quality and offers a satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason a user is unsatisfied with their face self-tanner, the company promises to make it right. With these benefits, it's easy to see why this line is one of the best self-tanners for the face currently available on the market.
6. Island Glow Spf 8 Sunscreen With Cocoa Butter
The REEF SAFE Sunscreen is a top-notch sun protection product that is crafted without the use of oxybenzone and octinoxate. This product is perfect for individuals who are conscious about what they put on their skin and are looking for a safe sunscreen option. With a classic coconut fragrance, this sunscreen offers a refreshing and tropical scent that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
This sunscreen is formulated with exotic botanicals and extracts that work together to give you a luxurious and nourishing experience. It is enriched with aloe vera, which is known for its hydrating and soothing properties. This ingredient helps to keep your skin moisturized and prevents it from drying out, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple.
The REEF SAFE Sunscreen also contains skin-nourishing antioxidants that provide added protection against the harmful effects of the sun. These antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals and prevent damage to your skin cells, keeping your skin looking youthful and healthy.
This sunscreen is very water-resistant, making it perfect for individuals who love to spend time in the water. Whether you're swimming, snorkeling, or surfing, you can rest assured that your skin will stay protected from the sun's harmful rays.
7. Pineapple Turbo Tan Accelerator
Experience a natural, long-lasting tan with the 100% Natural Tanning Oil. This tanning oil has become a favorite among dark tan lovers. Formulated with a blend of cocoa seed butter, carrot seed oil, watermelon oil, and walnut oils, it provides a quick and easy tan that lasts.
For those who want to reduce sun exposure or avoid tanning beds, the Tanning Accelerator Gel is perfect for achieving a natural, darker, and long-lasting tan. This gel is super effective in both tanning beds and under the sun.
Achieve an intense tanning experience with the Tanning Accelerator Cream. This cream is suitable for all skin types and helps moisturize your skin while you tan. It contains natural carrot oil which prepares and strengthens your skin for sun exposure. Get a deep tan with an impressive golden shine with this cream.
To use any of these tanning products, apply an abundant quantity over your entire body and reapply frequently, especially after swimming, toweling, or perspiring. However, avoid applying the product near your eyes, and note that it does not provide UV protection. For those with light skin, it's recommended to use SPF before applying the Tanning Butter. Remember to avoid direct sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
8. Sun-Kissed Defense: Coppertone Spf 15 Lotion
The Coppertone SPF 15 Tanning Sunscreen Lotion is an essential for anyone looking to enjoy the sun without sacrificing protection. With a lightweight formula, this sunscreen won't leave your skin feeling greasy or heavy. Instead, it provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection to prevent sun damage and skin aging.
Enriched with Vitamin E, this tanning lotion also moisturizes the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. It's perfect for those who want to achieve a healthy, sun-kissed glow while keeping their skin healthy and hydrated.
This water-resistant sunscreen is designed to last for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for a day at the beach or pool. You won't have to worry about constantly reapplying, allowing you to fully enjoy your time in the sun.
For those with sensitive skin, Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion SPF 15 is free from dyes, PABA, and oxybenzone, making it a safe choice for all skin types.
Each bottle contains 8 fluid ounces of sunscreen, providing ample protection for multiple uses. Don't let the sun's harmful rays prevent you from enjoying your time outdoors. With Coppertone SPF 15 Tanning Sunscreen Lotion, you can achieve a beautiful tan while keeping your skin protected and moisturized.
9. Bronzeboost: Fast Tanning Cream & Oil (200g)
Looking for an all-natural tanning oil to achieve a beautiful, long-lasting tan? Look no further than this amazing product! Made with 100% natural ingredients, including cocoa seed oil, carrot seed oil, watermelon oil, and walnut oil, this tanning oil is perfect for those who love a dark, intense tan.
Achieving great results has never been easier! Simply use this tanning gel with reduced sun exposure or in tanning beds for a natural, darker tan that lasts. Its effectiveness is unparalleled when used in a tanning bed or under the sun.
Expect a deep, chocolate tan with less exposure to the sun or tanning beds when you use this absolute tanning innovation. Plus, it smells like real chocolate! Thanks to its all-natural botanical extracts, you'll get fast results in less time. And with our secret butter and oil tanning blend, your skin will be nourished and moisturized for a natural bronzing and decorating experience.
This tanning oil is suitable for all skin tones, thanks to its chemical-free formula. It has an incredibly delicious chocolate scent and nourishes and moisturizes your skin during sun exposure. And because it's suitable for all skin types, you can use it with confidence.
To get the best results, simply apply this tanning oil as a cream. And to avoid any potential sun damage, make sure to avoid direct exposure to the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. With this amazing tanning oil, you'll be able to achieve the perfect, long-lasting tan you've been dreaming of!
10. Carroten Intensive Tanning Oil 1.69 Ounces 50 Milliliters
Looking for a natural and effective way to get a beautiful tan while also nourishing and moisturizing your skin? Look no further than this masterfully blended tanning oil!
Infused with a blend of carrot, coconut, black walnut, and sunflower oils, this tanning oil works quickly to give you a natural-looking tan while also deeply moisturizing your skin. Whether you're lounging by the pool or soaking up the sun at the beach, this tanning oil is the perfect way to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
But that's not all – this tanning oil is also packed with Vitamins A&E, which work together to protect your skin from free radicals that can cause premature aging. And with calendula extract for deep treatment and relief of the skin, this tanning oil is truly a one-stop-shop for all your tanning and skincare needs.
Best of all, this tanning oil is dermatologically tested and water-resistant, so you can rest assured that it is safe and effective for all skin types. So why wait? Add this amazing tanning oil to your collection today and start enjoying a beautiful, natural-looking tan that also keeps your skin healthy and moisturized!
Best Sun Cream For Tanning FAQs
Are there any natural sun creams that are good for tanning?
Yes, there are some natural sun creams that are good for tanning. These sun creams are made with natural ingredients that not only protect your skin from the harmful UV rays but also help you achieve a beautiful tan. One of the best natural ingredients for tanning is coconut oil. It contains a natural SPF of around 4, which is not enough for prolonged sun exposure, but it can help you achieve a natural and healthy tan. Other natural ingredients that can help you achieve a beautiful tan include carrot oil, raspberry seed oil, and avocado oil. These oils contain antioxidants that protect your skin from free radicals and help improve your skin's texture. It is important to note that while these natural sun creams can help you achieve a tan, you should still be careful and limit your sun exposure to avoid skin damage and sunburns.
Are there any sun creams that can enhance my tan?
Yes, there are sun creams available on the market that can enhance your tan. These types of sun creams are commonly called "tan enhancers" or "accelerators". They usually contain ingredients such as tyrosine, riboflavin, and copper, which can stimulate the production of melanin in your skin, resulting in a faster and deeper tan.
It is important to note that while these sun creams can help enhance your tan, they do not provide any additional sun protection. Therefore, it is crucial to still use a sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It is also important to follow the directions on the package and not exceed the recommended application frequency or amount.
Additionally, it is essential to remember that excessive sun exposure can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to use sun protection and limit your time in the sun, especially during peak hours.
Can I use a regular sun cream for tanning or do I need a specific one?
While regular sun cream can offer some protection against the sun's harmful UV rays, it may not necessarily enhance your tanning experience. If your goal is to get a nice, even tan, it's best to use a specific tanning lotion or oil that is designed to help you achieve that look. These products typically contain ingredients that can help accelerate the tanning process, such as bronzers or melanin enhancers, while also providing protection against UV rays.
That being said, it's important to note that excessive exposure to the sun can be dangerous and increase your risk of skin cancer. It's always important to use sunscreen, regardless of whether you're trying to tan or not. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Additionally, try to limit your time in the sun during peak hours, which are typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Can you still get a tan with high SPF sun cream?
Yes, you can still get a tan with high SPF sun cream, but it will take longer than without it. SPF, or sun protection factor, is a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect skin from UVB rays, which cause sunburn and skin cancer. The higher the SPF number, the more protection it provides. However, no sunscreen can completely block all UV rays, so some will still get through and stimulate melanin production in the skin, which causes tanning.
It is important to note that tanning itself is a sign of skin damage and increases the risk of skin cancer, so it is recommended to use sun cream with a high SPF to protect your skin. It is also important to reapply sun cream every two hours and after swimming or sweating, as well as seek shade and wear protective clothing and a hat. Tanning is not worth the risk of skin damage and potential health consequences.
Does sun cream affect tanning?
Yes, sun cream does affect tanning. Sun cream is designed to protect the skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn and skin damage. The active ingredients in sun cream work by absorbing or reflecting the UV rays, which reduces the amount of UV radiation that penetrates the skin. This means that the skin is less likely to burn and become damaged.
However, this also means that the skin is less likely to tan because tanning is the skin's natural response to UV radiation. Sun cream can prevent the skin from tanning by blocking the UV rays that stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its color.
It is important to note that using sun cream does not completely prevent tanning, but rather reduces the intensity of the tan and prolongs the time it takes for the skin to tan. It is also important to use a sun cream with a sufficient level of SPF to provide adequate protection for your skin.
How often should I reapply sun cream when tanning?
When you're out in the sun, it's essential to reapply sunscreen regularly to ensure your skin is protected from harmful UV rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. However, if you're tanning, you may need to reapply more frequently.
The amount of time you can spend in the sun without burning varies based on your skin type and the SPF of the sunscreen you're using. For instance, if you have fair skin, you may only be able to spend 10-15 minutes in the sun before you start to burn. In this case, you'll need to reapply sunscreen more often than if you have darker skin that doesn't burn as easily.
To ensure you're fully protected, it's best to apply sunscreen before you go outside and reapply it every hour or so while you're tanning. Additionally, consider wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to reduce your risk of skin damage.
Is there a sun cream for tanning that doesn't leave a white residue?
Yes, there are sun creams available in the market that are specifically formulated for tanning and do not leave a white residue. These sun creams are often referred to as "tanning oils" and come in various forms, including sprays, lotions, and gels. Tanning oils contain ingredients that help to accelerate the tanning process and provide protection against harmful UV rays. They are designed to be absorbed quickly by the skin, leaving a non-greasy and non-sticky feel. Some tanning oils also contain moisturizing ingredients that help to keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness. When choosing a tanning oil, it is important to look for one that has a high SPF rating to ensure adequate protection against the sun's harmful rays. It is also important to follow the application instructions carefully to ensure optimal results.
What ingredients should I look for in a sun cream for tanning?
When choosing a sun cream for tanning, it is important to look for ingredients that will protect your skin from harmful UV rays while still allowing you to achieve a sun-kissed glow. Firstly, make sure the sunscreen has a minimum SPF of 30 to protect your skin from UVB rays. Additionally, look for sunscreens that contain ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, or octinoxate to protect against UVA rays. These ingredients are often listed as "broad-spectrum" on the label.
To enhance tanning, you can also look for sunscreens that contain ingredients like tyrosine or melanin, which can stimulate the production of melanin in the skin, leading to a deeper, more even tan. Some sunscreens also contain natural ingredients like coconut oil or aloe vera, which can help keep your skin moisturized and prevent dryness or peeling.
Remember, tanning can still be damaging to your skin, so it is important to use sunscreen and limit your exposure to the sun. Look for sunscreens that are water-resistant and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
What is the best sun cream for tanning?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what the best sun cream for tanning is, as different people have different skin types and react differently to different products. However, if you are looking for a sun cream that will help you achieve a healthy, glowing tan while also providing adequate sun protection, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, it is important to choose a sun cream with a high SPF (sun protection factor) to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. However, a high SPF can also prevent you from tanning, so it is best to opt for a lower SPF such as 15 or 30. Secondly, look for a sun cream that contains natural ingredients such as aloe vera, which can help soothe and moisturize your skin while also promoting tanning.
Some popular sun creams for tanning include Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil, Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator, and Banana Boat Deep Tanning Oil. However, it is important to remember that while these products may help you achieve a tan, they do not provide complete protection from the sun's harmful rays, so it is still important to practice safe sun habits such as wearing a hat and staying in the shade during peak hours.
What SPF is best for tanning?
There is no such thing as an SPF that is best for tanning. In fact, using any sunscreen with SPF will reduce the amount of UV radiation that reaches your skin, which means it will take longer for your skin to tan. Tanning occurs when your skin is exposed to UV radiation from the sun, which stimulates the production of melanin in your skin cells. However, this process can also damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.
It is important to remember that a tan is actually a sign of skin damage, and there is no such thing as a safe or healthy tan. The best way to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation is to wear protective clothing, seek shade when possible, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This will help to reduce your risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer, while still allowing you to enjoy the outdoors.
