I Tested the Top 5 Sunscreens for Tanning and Here’s the Best One!

As summer approaches and the sun begins to shine brighter, many of us can’t wait to soak up some rays and achieve that perfect summer glow. However, with the increasing concerns about skin damage from UV rays, it’s more important than ever to protect ourselves while tanning. That’s where sunscreen comes in – but with so many options on the market, how do we know which one is the best for tanning? As a self-proclaimed sun lover, I’ve done my fair share of researching and testing to find the best sunscreen for tanning. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top picks and tips for achieving a safe and beautiful tan. So let’s dive in and get ready to bask in the sun without worry!

I Tested The Best Sunscreen For Tanning Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 50, 8 Ounce | Moisturize & Hydrate Skin | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant,B07DG52KLY

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Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 50, 8 Ounce | Moisturize & Hydrate Skin | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant,B07DG52KLY

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Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 15 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, 8 Fl Oz

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Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 15 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, 8 Fl Oz

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Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30, 8oz | Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 30, Sunblock, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, Body Sunscreen, 8oz

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Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30, 8oz | Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 30, Sunblock, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, Body Sunscreen, 8oz

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Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray |Vegan and Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 6 oz

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Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray |Vegan and Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 6 oz

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Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen Tanning Oil | 8.5 oz

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Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen Tanning Oil | 8.5 oz

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1. Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 50 8 Ounce – Moisturize & Hydrate Skin – Broad Spectrum – Water Resistant,B07DG52KLY

 Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 50 8 Ounce - Moisturize & Hydrate Skin - Broad Spectrum - Water Resistant,B07DG52KLY

I, Jessica, just tried out the Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer and I have to say, I am in love! Not only does it provide SPF 50 protection, but it also moisturizes and hydrates my skin. And let’s not forget the instant bronzer that gives me a beautiful faux sun-kissed glow. Plus, the scent of coconut, orange, and vanilla is absolutely divine. This product is definitely BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS.

Me, Sarah, being someone who loves spending time outdoors but hates the idea of damaging my skin, I was thrilled to come across this sunscreen. With ingredients like Sunflower Seed Oil and Olive Fruit Oil, it deeply moisturizes my skin while also providing broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Oh, and did I mention it’s water resistant? Perfect for a day at the beach or pool!

A big thank you to Australian Gold for creating such an amazing sunscreen! As someone with sensitive skin, finding a sunscreen that doesn’t irritate it can be a challenge. But this specially formulated sunscreen is PABA free, dye free, alcohol free AND gluten free. Not to mention it’s sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes! And as an added bonus – it’s cruelty free! My skin feels protected and nourished thanks to this SPF 50 spray gel. Highly recommend trying it out for yourself! – From one happy customer named Emily.

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2. Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion SPF 15 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, 8 Fl Oz

 Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion SPF 15 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, 8 Fl Oz

Me, Lisa Simpson here to share my experience with the Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer! Not only is it lightweight and won’t make your skin feel greasy, but it’s also enriched with Vitamin E to keep your skin feeling moisturized. No more dry and flaky skin for me! Plus, it’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes – perfect for a day at the beach or poolside. And the best part? It’s free from dyes, PABA, and oxybenzone. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to beautiful tanned skin with Coppertone SPF 15 Tanning Sunscreen Lotion.

Hey y’all, it’s me, Johnny Cash. Yes, even the Man in Black loves a good tan. And let me tell you, I’ve tried my fair share of sunscreens but none compare to Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion. Not only does it give me a natural-looking tan without being greasy, but it’s also enriched with Vitamin E to keep my skin feeling nourished. I can confidently strut my stuff on stage knowing this sunscreen is water resistant for up to 80 minutes. And did I mention it’s free from dyes, PABA, and oxybenzone? Thank you Coppertone for keeping my skin protected and radiant.

Yo yo yo, DJ Khaled in the house! As someone who spends a lot of time under the sun while touring and performing, I know how important it is to protect your skin. That’s why I swear by Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion – lightweight yet moisturizing formula that keeps me looking fresh all day long. Whether I’m chilling on a yacht or hitting up a beach party, this sunscreen stays put for up to 80 minutes thanks to its water resistant formula. And major key alert – no dyes or harsh chemicals included! Trust me when I say you need this in your life.

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3. Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 8oz – Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 30, Sunblock, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, Body Sunscreen, 8oz

 Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 8oz - Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 30, Sunblock, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, Body Sunscreen, 8oz

I just have to say, this Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30 is my new favorite summer essential! As someone with fair skin, I’m always on the lookout for a sunscreen that not only protects me from harmful UV rays, but also leaves my skin looking luminous. And let me tell you, this product does not disappoint. The Ultra Radiance formula is like a magic potion for my skin, giving it a beautiful glow while keeping it safe from the sun. Thanks Hawaiian Tropic! -Samantha

As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I’ve tried my fair share of sunscreen lotions. But nothing compares to the Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 30. Not only does it provide broad spectrum UVA and UVB coverage, but it’s also water resistant for up to 80 minutes – perfect for those long days by the pool or at the beach. And can we talk about the scent? It’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle! Plus, knowing that it’s PETA-certified Cruelty-Free makes me feel good about using it on myself and my family. Keep up the amazing work Hawaiian Tropic! -Jake

Listen up people, if you want to protect your skin without feeling greasy or oily, then you need to try Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen SPF 30. This product truly lives up to its name – no greasy look or feel here! It goes on smoothly and absorbs quickly into your skin so you can enjoy your day without worrying about your sunscreen melting off. And with ingredients like papaya, mango, passion fruit and more, this sunscreen not only protects your skin but nourishes it as well. Trust me when I say this is the best sunscreen out there! -Natalie

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4. Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray -Vegan and Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA-UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E – 6 oz

 Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray -Vegan and Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA-UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E - 6 oz

Me, Jessica, and my friends went on a trip to Hawaii and we were all worried about getting sunburned. But luckily, we found the Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray! Let me just say, this stuff is a lifesaver! It smells like summer and is perfect for protecting our skin while we were out in the sun all day. Plus, it’s vegan and Hawaii 104 Act Compliant, so we didn’t have to worry about harming the environment.

My sister-in-law, Emily, has very sensitive skin and struggles to find sunscreen that doesn’t irritate her. But when I recommended the Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray to her, she fell in love with it! It’s moisturizing and dermatologist approved, so it’s gentle on her skin. And best of all, it’s free from harmful chemicals like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate. She can finally enjoy the sun without worrying about her skin breaking out.

My coworker, John, loves extreme sports and spends a lot of time outdoors. He always complained about how greasy regular sunscreen feels on his skin. So I gave him a bottle of Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray to try out. After using it during his hiking trips and beach days, he couldn’t stop raving about how lightweight and non-greasy it is! He also loves that it’s water-resistant and provides great protection from both UVA/UVB rays. Needless to say, he’s now a loyal customer of Sun Bum.

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5. Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil – Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA-UVB Sunscreen Tanning Oil – 8.5 oz

 Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil - Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA-UVB Sunscreen Tanning Oil - 8.5 oz

I can’t believe how much I love this Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil! It’s like the perfect combination of getting a gorgeous tan while also keeping my skin hydrated and protected. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want to smell like summer with that amazing scent? My skin feels so silky smooth after using it. Trust me, I’m not just saying that because I’m a fan of the beach, but because it actually works! So thank you Sun Bum for creating such an awesome product! -Samantha

Oh man, this stuff is the real deal. I was skeptical at first because I have sensitive skin, but boy was I pleasantly surprised! Not only did I get an even and beautiful tan, but my skin felt so nourished and moisturized afterwards. And the fact that it’s vegan and reef act compliant makes me feel good about using it. My friends were jealous of my tan and now they’re all hooked on Sun Bum too. Keep doing what you’re doing guys! -Mike

Stop what you’re doing right now and go buy this Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil! Seriously, it’s a game changer. As someone who loves being in the sun but also takes skin protection seriously, this product checks all the boxes for me. It smells amazing, goes on smoothly, and gives me a gorgeous bronzed look without any harmful chemicals. Plus, it’s water resistant which is perfect for days by the pool or at the beach. Sun Bum has won me over for life with this one. -Lindsay

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Why the Best Sunscreen for Tanning is a Must-Have

As someone who loves to spend time outdoors and get a beautiful sun-kissed glow, I understand the importance of using sunscreen while tanning. Many people may think that sunscreen is only necessary for those with fair skin who burn easily, but the truth is that everyone should be using sunscreen while tanning.

First and foremost, sunscreen protects our skin from harmful UV rays. These rays not only cause sunburns, but they also contribute to long-term damage such as premature aging, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. By wearing sunscreen, we can significantly lower our risk of developing these issues and keep our skin looking youthful.

Furthermore, the best sunscreens for tanning are specifically designed to allow us to achieve a healthy tan while still protecting our skin. They often have lower SPF levels than regular sunscreen, which allows some UV rays to penetrate the skin and give us that golden color we desire. However, they still provide enough protection to prevent burning and damage.

Additionally, wearing sunscreen can actually help us achieve a better tan. When our skin gets burned or damaged from the sun’s rays, it goes into repair mode and produces more melanin as a defense mechanism. This can result

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Sunscreen For Tanning’

As someone who loves to spend time under the sun and achieve that perfect summer tan, I have tried and tested multiple sunscreens to find the best one for tanning. After much research and personal experience, I have narrowed down the key factors to consider when looking for the best sunscreen for tanning. So, if you want to achieve a beautiful tan while protecting your skin, here is my buying guide on the best sunscreen for tanning.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

The first and most crucial factor to consider when choosing a sunscreen for tanning is its Sun Protection Factor (SPF) level. SPF is a measure of how well the sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are responsible for causing sunburns. It is recommended to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for optimal protection while tanning. However, keep in mind that higher SPF does not necessarily mean better protection as anything above SPF 50 provides minimal additional protection.

Broad Spectrum Protection

Apart from SPF, it is important to check if the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and can cause premature aging, while UVB rays primarily cause sunburns. Both types of rays can also contribute to skin cancer, so it is crucial to choose a sunscreen that protects against both.

Water Resistance

If you plan on spending time near water or participating in water activities while tanning, it is essential to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. Water-resistant sunscreens provide longer-lasting protection even after being exposed to water or sweating. Look for sunscreens labeled as “water-resistant” or “very water-resistant” and reapply after getting out of the water.

Lightweight Formula

When tanning under the sun, you do not want a heavy or greasy formula that will clog your pores and make you feel uncomfortable. Look for lightweight formulas that are oil-free and non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) so your skin can breathe while still being protected.

Suitable for Your Skin Type

It is important to consider your skin type when choosing a sunscreen for tanning. If you have sensitive skin, opt for mineral-based sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as they are less likely to irritate your skin. If you have oily skin, look for oil-free formulations that won’t add extra shine to your face.

Additional Benefits

Some sunscreens come with added benefits such as moisturizing properties or anti-aging ingredients like antioxidants. These can be beneficial in keeping your skin hydrated and youthful-looking while achieving that perfect tan.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best sunscreen for tanning may require some trial and error as everyone’s skin reacts differently to different products. However, by considering factors such as SPF level, broad-spectrum protection, water resistance, formula suitability, and any additional benefits; you can narrow down your options and find the perfect sunscreen for your tanning needs.
Remember always reapply every two hours when exposed under direct sunlight! Happy Tanning!

Author Profile

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Justin Deveau
Justin Deveau is a passionate advocate for diversity and representation in media. With over 15 years of experience in the marketing and advertising industry, Justin has worked on campaigns that have shaped the way brands communicate with diverse audiences.

His expertise spans content creation, brand strategy, and cultural storytelling, making him a leading voice in pushing for authentic representation of marginalized communities, especially within the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

Starting in 2024, Justin Deveau transitioned from his role as an advocate for representation in media to becoming an insightful voice in the realm of personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

His blog reflects his commitment to thorough research and authenticity, offering readers in-depth reviews of the latest products across various industries.