Whether you’re planning your next beach vacation or just spending time outside, applying a tanning lotion will help enhance and deepen your tan. They also help to keep your skin hydrated and fight off the drying effects of the sun.
Some contain bronzers to give you a deeper tan, and some contain tan accelerators to boost your own melanin production. But what is the best tanning lotion for outside?
We have been tried and testing the best outdoor tanning lotions on the market to let you know the top ones to buy now.
#1 Tanovations Sun Day Fun Day Cocktail

This lotion, aptly named a ‘cocktail’ by the brand Tanovations, is a fantastic mix of hydration and tan acceleration. This combination is why I have named it the best outdoor tanning lotion. With a base of coconut oil, shea butter and cocoa butter, it is a deeply nourishing buttery lotion that will keep your skin hydrated and leave it so smooth.
The tan accelerating ingredients are designed to boost your skin’s melanin production to help you achieve a glow in a shorter amount of time. It is definitely the best outdoor tan accelerator.
Vitamin E is included and will also help to protect against free radicals and have the added bonus of slowing down skin ageing. As we know, spending time in the sun can cause damage to your skin over time and lead to early signs of ageing. This lotion will help prevent that.
Pros
- Smooth hydrating formula
- Effective tan acceleration
- Anti-ageing
- Stain-free
Cons
- n/a
#2 b.tan Tanner AF Spray Oil

This tanning oil from b.tan uses tan accelerators to help you achieve a long-lasting, dark tan in a short amount of time. Number two on the list but is definitely the best outdoor tanning oil, rather than lotion, on the market.
This one is bronzer free, so a great choice if you want your tan to come from UV rays, but just want to speed up the process.
With coconut and argan oils, it will hydrate your skin really well whilst you are lying in the sun, which is essential because UV rays can dry out the skin.
b.tan are a brand committed to the planet, and this oil is vegan, as well as cruelty free and reef friendly.
Pros
- Fast tanning results
- Hydrating oils
- Easy-application spray
- Vegan and cruelty free
Cons
- n/a
#3 Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses

This golden tanning lotion from well-loved brand Ed Hardy absolutely had to get a feature on this list. This lotion does not use bronzing agents, but rather ingredients Quad Tyrosine and Melano Bronze to stimulate melanin production. The resulting golden glow is therefore completely yours.
With coconut milk, coconut oil and cocoa butter as its base, this lotion is extremely smooth and hydrating for your skin, which is essential when spending time in the sun.
This lotion will also help to protect your tattoos from UV exposure and extend their life. Sun damage is particularly noticeable on tattoos, and over time they can fade. Therefore, if you do have tattoos this is a great choice.
Pros
- Boosts melanin production
- Super hydrating
- Tattoo protection
Cons
- Leaves a slightly sticky residue
#4 Somewhere on a Beach Instant Dark Lotion

This tanning lotion from Somewhere on a Beach can be used as an outdoor tanning lotion or inside on sunbeds and will enhance your tan with the bronzers it contains. These bronzers do not contain DHA, so it will not stain your hands and you won’t suffer the DHA smell, whilst still giving you a gorgeous golden glow.
Based in coconut and walnut oils, the lotion is deeply hydrating to combat the drying effects of UV rays. Your skin will not only feel amazing, but you will also see more even results from your tan. The lotion is very easy to apply, making it the best tanning lotion for the beach.
Pros
- No orange stains on hands
- Very hydrating
- Anti-ageing
- Lovely tropical smell
Cons
- Not suitable for very oily skin
#5 Ed Hardy Hollywood Bronze

Another lotion from Ed Hardy, this time with added bronzers is a great option if you would like a little bit of help on top of the color your skin can achieve on its own. The bronzers will give you a deep looking tan but are DHA free so will avoid the problem of stains and smells.
On top of the bronzing agents, the lotion contains MelanoBronze, which stimulates melanin activity to give you a darker natural tan that will last longer.
Hemp seed oil and cocoa butter will hydrate the skin and repair any dry patches that could lead to an uneven appearance. It is also packed with antioxidants from cranberry seed oil, to fight against free radicals and prevent signs of ageing.
Pros
- DHA free dark bronzers
- Boosts melanin production
- Hydrating and Repairing
Cons
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
#6 Cocooil Tanning Oil SPF 6

It’s unusual to find a tanning oil with SPF protection, which is why I have added this tanning oil by Cocooil to the list. Knowing you have SPF protection built into your tanning oil means you don’t have to worry about applying two different products. It will also reduce the risk of them interfering with each other and causing streaks in your tan.
Containing 100% natural ingredients including coconut oil, it will deeply hydrate your skin without feeling too heavy. The ingredients also give a gorgeous scent, with no hint of chemicals, which is common in other products.
This oil focuses more on skin hydration than tan acceleration or enhancement and does not contain bronzers or super accelerators. So, if you are looking for an instant dark tan, this probably isn’t the right tanning oil for you.
Cocooil are another company committed to saving the planet and use sustainably sourced coconut oil that helps to support local communities.
Pros
- Deeply hydrating
- Pleasant, chemical-free scent
- Eco-friendly and sustainably sourced
Cons
- Not the strongest tan acceleration
#7 Millennium 100X Dark Tanning Lotion

This tan deepening lotion from Millennium is well-loved by experienced tanners. It contains moisturizing sunflower oil and essential oils to lock in hydration and nourish your skin whilst tanning. These ingredients also give it a lovely floral scent.
Another key ingredient in this lotion is silicone, which helps it glide over your skin with ease. This smooth finish will help you to achieve an even finish on your tan. Lotion that is hard to spread can leave you with a patchy tan, so there is no risk of that with this one.
This lotion adds huge enhancement to your tan with its bronze color, leaving you with beautifully brown skin just one hour later. We loved the shade of bronze because it is completely free from orangey tones.
Pros
- Great bronzing effect
- Highly moisturizing
- Light floral scent
- Can be used on tanning beds too
Cons
- n/a
#8 Australian Gold Tan Intensifier Lotion

This rapid tanning intensifier from Australian Gold works to actually speed up the natural tanning process rather than using bronzers or skin darkening ingredients. So, if you are determined to have a totally natural color, fast, this is the lotion for you.
Whilst it does not contain SPF protection, it contains antioxidants in vitamin E and Tea Tree oil which will help to fight off free radicals and nourish your skin, whilst bringing darker pigments to the surface.
Aloe vera is another dominant ingredient, to hydrate your skin whilst spending time in the sun. This is essential in a tanning lotion, because dry skin could lead to peeling and an uneven, patchy tan.
This lotion is also vegan and cruelty free, so great for those of us who love animals!
Pros
- Speeds up tanning
- Nourishing and hydrating
- Beautiful summer scent
- Vegan and cruelty free
Cons
- Less noticeable results than bronzing lotions
#9 Millennium 200X Solid Black Tanning Lotion

If you have ever worried about what will happen to your tattoos whilst you’re tanning, this lotion will be a revelation. The infusion of silicone will not only help to apply the product evenly, but also protect your tattoos from fading in the sun.
This lotion will provide all the moisturization you need to keep your skin hydrated while you are tanning, with ingredients like acai berry oil. Acai is a berry that grows in the Amazon rainforest and is well-loved amongst wellness enthusiasts for its incredible levels of antioxidants. These will help to nourish and protect your skin whilst tanning, as well as leaving it super soft.
The bronzers in this lotion will also enhance the effects of your tan, giving you deeper and longer-lasting results. This is a 200x bronzing effect lotion, so if you have very pale skin or don’t want to see too dramatic a color change, the bronzers in this lotion might be too intense for you.
If you tan quite deeply on your own however, and want a deeper and darker color, this lotion will certainly do the trick.
Because of the deep color from the bronzers in this tanning lotion, you need to be very careful when applying this lotion to achieve an even color. If you make a mistake in the application, it will show up on your skin. Ask someone to help you with your back, and it’s also a good idea to use a tanning mitt like our blackout tanning mitt whilst applying.
Pros
- Highly moisturizing
- Bronzers to deepen your tan
- Tattoo protecting
- Skin tightening
Cons
- Will stain hands if not washed off
- More prone to streaks
#10 Ed Hardy #Beachtime Tanning Lotion

The final lotion on this list is another by Ed Hardy. A tanning lotion without bronzers that you can use indoors or outdoors, with tanning intensifiers to enhance your natural golden glow.
The intensifiers in this lotion will stimulate melanin production in the body. Melanin is the compound responsible for a darker color in your skin, so this lotion will definitely help you achieve a darker tan whilst spending less time in the sun or on the sunbeds.
With a base of coconut oil and coconut milk, this is an extremely soft lotion that will keep your skin hydrated and help to lessen the drying effects of UV rays on the skin. Seaweed is another ingredient in this that is beneficial, as it is known to draw toxins out of the body.
The other focus of this lotion is on firmness in the skin and ingredients to fight cellulite. Hibiscus extract, for example, is known to increase skin elasticity. Whilst this is a great option if you have concerns in these areas, it is not as focused on the tanning effects.
Pros
- Contains tanning intensifiers
- Nourishing and hydrating
- Increases skin elasticity
Cons
- Not the strongest tan results
- Slightly sticky residue
Related Questions
What Outdoor Tanning Lotion Gets You the Darkest?
If getting a dark is your main goal when choosing a tanning lotion, it is best to buy one that contains bronzers. Bronzers in tanning oils can make your tan appear darker without spending as much time in the sun or on a sunbed.
One major advantage to this is that you will do less damage to your skin. Over-exposure to UV rays can lead to a number of issues in people. Firstly, because tanned skin is actually the result of skin damage, over time this can lead to premature signs of ageing like wrinkles and age spots.
Secondly, damaging the skin cells with a lot of UV exposure can lead to health risks, most notably melanomas and skin cancer.
Bronzers in tanning lotions are therefore a great way to achieve a beautiful dark tan, without doing as much damage to your skin.
I would recommend the Instant Dark Lotion by Somewhere on a Beach, featured earlier in this article, as the tanning lotion that gets you the darkest.
Does Tanning Lotion Work for Outside?
There are differences to tanning outside and on a tanning bed. On a tanning bed the level of UV rays is controlled, and you will be able to choose whether you want more UVA or UVB rays in a high-quality and reputable salon. Outside in the sun, there is no control, and it is harder to know exactly though you can use the UV index.
You shouldn’t use tanning lotion designed for outdoor tanning whilst using tanning beds. They will not provide adequate protection.
You can, however, get away with it the other way around. Whilst many tanning lotions are sold to be used on sunbeds, it is fine to use them outside too.
The important thing to remember is that tanning bed lotions are not designed to protect your skin from prolonged exposure to UV rays, because people don’t use sunbeds for more than a few minutes on average. So, SPF is essential alongside your tanning lotion when tanning outside.
Apply your SPF sunscreen first. Try to choose a lightweight and fast-drying sunscreen that will absorb well into your skin. Check here for more – best sunblock’s to prevent tanning. This is so that when you apply the tanning lotion on top, they won’t mix together and cause unevenness in your tan.
As long as your skin is protected, you can enjoy all the bronzing or tan accelerating benefits of a tanning lotion outside, too!
FAQs
10 Best Outdoor Tanning Lotions of 2023 – Expert’s Guide - Talking Tan? ›
The Sicilian 200x Double Dark Black Bronzer
If you're looking for a subtle hint of color, try one of the other brands. The Sicilian Double Dark formula will give you the darkest tan you're likely to get from a bronzer. The color is smooth and even, but it is very noticeable.
- Dark Tans Exclusive That's What Sea Said Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion. ...
- Ed Hardy Aquaholic Dark Tanning Lotion. ...
- Snooki SHORE TO PLEASE Tanning Lotion. ...
- Happy Hour Coconut Rum Dark Tanning Accelerator.
The Sicilian 200x Double Dark Black Bronzer
If you're looking for a subtle hint of color, try one of the other brands. The Sicilian Double Dark formula will give you the darkest tan you're likely to get from a bronzer. The color is smooth and even, but it is very noticeable.
If you're after a natural, sun-kissed glow long after the summer fades away, trust us: Tanning bed lotion is not the way to achieve it. It may seem like a good idea, but dermatologists say tanning bed lotion should never be used outdoors.
What makes you tan faster outside? ›To get tan quickly, you'll need to apply a lotion or oil with a low SPF, but you still want to make sure you have some protection from the sun's powerful rays. Choose between rub-on lotions, aerosol sprays, and oil rubs that all contain some SPF.
What do the Kardashians use to tan? ›Dolce Glow founder Isabel Alysa is the pro behind countless stars' bronzed complexions. Miley Cyrus invested in the company in early 2023, while the likes of the Kardashian-Jenners, Selena Gomez and Jennifer Lopez all swear by Dolce Glow's spray tans for Met Gala appearances, Instagram shoots and more.
What colors make tan skin look darker? ›To make your tan appear darker, wear lighter shades of blue. Pick out citrus and fruity colors. Colors like orange, yellow, and lime green look great on people with golden skin tones. Citrus colors will enhance the glow your skin has picked up from a tan, whether you got the tan naturally or unnaturally.
How can I tan my legs in the sun fast? ›Keep your skin's moisture.
The skin on your legs is dryer so keeping it moisturised both before and after tanning will assist in making the most of the tanning session. A smooth, hydrated and soft skin assists the UV light to be absorbed and intensify the process of melanin production.
- Exfoliate your Skin prior to Tanning. ...
- Keep your Skin Hydrated and Moisturised. ...
- Apply a sunbed cream or tanning accelerator prior tanning.
- Remove any kind of makeup and other cosmetic products. ...
- Choose foods that accelerate tanning.
Moriz Professional Instant Medium Self Tanning Lotion, which "can be used as your everyday body lotion," she says.
How long should I sit outside with tanning lotion on? ›
If you have light skin or very light skin, 10 to 30 minutes in the sun is a perfect amount of time for a tan. Much longer than that, and you could start to develop a sunburn.
Should you shower off tanning lotion? ›It's advisable to wait at least 2 to 3 hours before showering after tanning with a tanning lotion. But if you want to guarantee that you won't wash away your superficial tan, you can postpone your shower for 6 to 8 hours after applying the tanning lotion.
Is it good to tan outside everyday? ›Tanning damages your skin cells and speeds up visible signs of aging. Worst of all, tanning can lead to skin cancer. It's a fact: There is no such thing as a safe or healthy tan. Tanning increases your risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Do you tan faster in water or laying out? ›Generally, your skin will tan quicker when you're in a swimming pool or ocean because of the reflection from the surface of the water. This reflection amplifies any direct exposure to UV radiation from the sun, which leads to more efficient tanning.
Why is my tan not getting darker? ›I have been tanning, but I'm not getting any darker. Now what? You may have reached a tanning plateau. Everyone has a limit to how dark they can get, but to try to get past your current color we recommend switching the types of beds you use every few tanning sessions.
How many times a week can you tan outside? ›Moderate tanning of 2-3 sessions a week is OK for everyone else but ensure you rest the skin for a minimum of 24 hours between each session and at least 48 hours for skin type 2. The European Standard advises not to exceed 60 sessions per annum.
What vitamins help you tan faster? ›Whether you are planning a lavish beach holiday or you simply intend to catch some rays in your back garden, taking a supplement that contains beta carotene, selenium and vitamin E will help boost your skin's resilience to the sun and allow you to tan more easily.
What makes me tan so easily? ›Why do I tan so easily? If you have a darker skin tone (more melanin), you tend to tan easily. The melanin (brown pigment) containing melanocytes spread out across the sun-exposed skin to cover and protect the skin from more damage.
How can I make my tan set faster? ›7. Speed up the drying process. Waiting for your fake tan to dry can be a drag, so speed up the process using your hairdryer on a cool setting. Just lightly blast across the areas you have tanned.
What does Kelly Ripa use for tanning? ›“Tan-Luxe — they're tanning drops, you put it in your moisturizer, and then you put it on, and your tan develops slowly,” she said. “This product is kind of remarkable. It stains nothing!
How does JLO get her tan? ›
To get that healthy shine and sun-kissed look—always being careful when she's exposed to the sun's rays—J. Lo is a loyal user of Serge Lutens bronzer ($170). Curious about the results? You can see for yourself.
Does JLO use self-tanner? ›Jennifer Lopez
Lo mentions products she likes, we're still all ears, and one of those products is Scott Barnes Body Bling ($42), a tinted body lotion. She told Allure, “I occasionally do a self-tanner, but I hadn't in a long time. I did one right before the Golden Globes, but otherwise, I hadn't done it in five years.
If you want to show off your newly tanned skin, think about rocking some red, orange or yellow. All shades of orange, from peach to carrot, will make your tan especially noticeable. You'll want to stick with the shades of bright yellow, as they will do your skin the most favors.
What colors make you tan faster? ›- Coral. You'll probably end up falling in love with this color! ...
- Orange and Gold. Doesn't orange make you think of a sunrise or sunset? ...
- Purple. ...
- White. ...
- Blue. ...
- Pink.
Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.
What time of day is best to tan legs? ›Best time of day to tan
If your goal is to tan faster in the shortest amount of time, then it's best to be outside when the sun's rays are the strongest. This timeframe will vary slightly depending on where you live. But generally, the sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Why Are Legs Hard To Tan?! The skin on your legs is thick so it's harder for the sun's rays to penetrate it. Also, if you're finding it difficult to tan your legs, then your legs may not produce as much melanin as the rest of your body, so it may be difficult to ever get them as dark as other parts of your body.
Is it harder to tan as you get older? ›As we get older (and sometimes weigh more) we are less able to make Vitamin D so maybe not making enough to initiate tanning.
What not to do after tanning bed? ›Don't shower.
Tanning experts recommend waiting several hours at least after tanning to take a shower in order to maintain the oils in the skin. Try to wait at least four hours.
Another way to make your tan darker is to apply two layers of self-tan or to top your tan up the day after the initial application. However, this is probably best left to the more confident tanners among us.
How do I get a brown tan instead of orange? ›
If your tan does stray to an orange hue the easiest way to get rid is to stop applying fake tan for a few days and just use moisturiser instead. Exfoliate to remove the dead skin cells and orange colour and once your skin is cleansed of DHA you can start tanning again, remembering not to overload your skin!
How do celebrities stay tan all the time? ›So to keep that healthy tan glow, celebrities have flocked to self tanning products in droves. Some do spray tanning, some use self tanning lotions, gels, mousses, and creams at home. But regardless of what they use, self tanning products are now the #1 choice of most celebrities when it comes to tanning.
What tan does Kylie Jenner use? ›Her new favourite at home self tan is none other than our DARK SELF TANNING FOAM! Our Dark Self Tanning Foam is a #1 worldwide best seller (we sell one every 9 seconds!) and for good reason too - this lightweight foam is simple to apply and gives a flawless finish, every time.
Does Brad Pitt self tan? ›It's easier than getting a makeover or sticking to your skincare regimen. Even famous men like Brad Pitt and George Clooney self-tan regularly. They're just some of the most desirable men in the world that work on their good looks. But that doesn't mean you have to spend as much time as they do to look good.
What is the easiest tan to apply? ›When it comes to tanning, gel-based formulas are the easiest to apply. They aren't as streaky as a liquid but look more natural than a mousse, so are a great starting point for beginners. With that said, lotions and mousses are still easy to apply as long as you exfoliate beforehand and use a tanning mitt.
What is the healthiest form of tanning? ›If you're still set on getting that tanned look, do it safely, with a spray tan or lotions that don't damage your skin. Unlike UV rays, which alter the amount of melanin in your skin, these products use a color additive, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), that reacts with amino acids in your skin's surface to darken its color.
What oil makes you tan faster? ›Olive oil has tons of skin benefits. It can help you achieve a healthy glow, an even and beautiful tan, and even speed up the tanning process for you. As long as you use it safely and responsibly, olive oil can be your fast-track ticket to gorgeous tanned skin.
How many times a day should you put on tanning lotion? ›How often do you need to apply gradual tan? Michaella advises applying every day for 3-4 consecutive days to achieve a real glow, before breaking for a couple of days, and then starting again. For a subtler build up, and consistent seven-days-a-week glow, apply on alternate days continuously.
Should you put lotion on immediately after tanning? ›It's best to moisturize your skin after tanning but before taking a shower. Applying moisturizer after your shower prevents the skin from absorbing the moisturizer efficiently. However, if you're using a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, you should apply it immediately after you pat yourself dry.
How often should you flip when tanning outside? ›Remember, a gradual tan is a lasting tan. So, switch sides every 15-30 minutes. You'll also want to raise your arms above your head off and on to tan the undersides of your arms and your armpits. If you start to feel drowsy, it's time to get out of the sun.
What foods help with tanning? ›
In addition to cherries, watermelon and other red fruits, peaches, apricots and melons are also ideal tanning foods. They are seasonal fruits and, as you might guess from their orange color, they are rich in beta-carotene.
Is it OK to sleep with tanning lotion on? ›All of MineTan's self tan foams are designed to absorb and dry quickly so you can wear your tan and go about your day (or sleep!)
What to do after tanning outside? ›After extensive sunbathing, it is advisable to first go into the shade or take a shower. Lukewarm water is best. Hot or cold water shocks the skin and can delay recovery. To avoid irritation, be careful not to rub the skin dry, but rather gently pat it dry with a towel.
What weather is the best time to tan? ›When is UV radiation at its highest? UV radiation is generally highest between 10 AM and 3 PM, during the summer, on a cloudless day. Some countries broadcast a UV index for each day on the weather report. However, this does not mean that a scorching hot sunny day is the best day to get a tan.
How fast does tanning age your skin? ›While a day in the sun might temporarily leave you with a rich tan or smattering of freckles, it can also leave behind hidden skin damage that may resurface as you age. Scientific research suggests that tanning – or any form of sun exposure past 30 minutes – can cause up to 90% of visible signs of aging [2].
Is it better to tan standing or lying down outside? ›Standing up can yield better, even results because you are standing with your arms held high. Your entire body is exposed to the rays this way. So, if you're looking for more even results, try the stand-up booth.
What outdoor tanning oil gets you the darkest? ›The Bali Body Watermelon Tanning Oil provides the deepest, darkest tan out of all 4 tanning oils. It's enriched with watermelon seed oil, which stimulates the production of melanin in the skin to provide a deep tan. Your skin will be left silky smooth and smelling like a juicy watermelon.
How can I tan outside without burning? ›Sunscreen should be applied 15 minutes before going outdoors and re-applied every 2 hours when in direct sunlight. Don't forget to cover up! Hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts are a great way to protect your skin from the sun's damaging UV rays.
What SPF is best for tanning outside? ›The SPF number tells you what percentage of UVB rays the sunscreen blocks. The higher the SPF, the more sun protection you'll have. So, you're better off skipping on the tan and opting for SPF 30 or SPF 50.
How do you get the darkest tan? ›- Exfoliate your Skin prior to Tanning. ...
- Keep your Skin Hydrated and Moisturised. ...
- Apply a sunbed cream or tanning accelerator prior tanning.
- Remove any kind of makeup and other cosmetic products. ...
- Choose foods that accelerate tanning.
What tan do the Kardashians use? ›
St. Tropez's Jumbo Self Tan Express Mousse is one of Kim Kardashian's all-time favorite self-tanners, she previously revealed on her KKW blog. It's a lightweight, fast-absorbing tanning mousse that doesn't leave your skin feeling sticky after application.
What oil makes you tan the fastest? ›Still, putting olive oil on your skin will cause your skin to tan more quickly than if you simply applied sunscreen or no oil at all. How does it work? Moore says olive oil, like other oils, attracts UV rays to the skin quickly.
What oil makes you tan the most? ›Extra virgin olive oil is one of the most effective and natural ways to tan your skin. It attracts the sun's heat and helps you get a browner and deeper skin tone.
What is the best time of day to tan? ›The practice of lying in the sun is actually risky and increases the potential of developing skin cancer. If you're going to tan, however, and your goal is to tan quickly, the best time is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
How can I tan my legs fast in the sun? ›Keep your skin's moisture. The skin on your legs is dryer so keeping it moisturised both before and after tanning will assist in making the most of the tanning session. A smooth, hydrated and soft skin assists the UV light to be absorbed and intensify the process of melanin production.
What foods help you tan? ›In addition to cherries, watermelon and other red fruits, peaches, apricots and melons are also ideal tanning foods. They are seasonal fruits and, as you might guess from their orange color, they are rich in beta-carotene.
Is SPF 30 or 50 better for tanning? ›An SPF 30 allows about 3 percent of UVB rays to hit your skin. An SPF of 50 allows about 2 percent of those rays through. That may seem like a small difference until you realize that the SPF 30 is allowing 50 percent more UV radiation onto your skin.
Is SPF 30 too high to tan? ›An SPF also means that a certain percentage of skin-aging UVB rays are still allowed to penetrate the skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 3% of UVB rays can enter your skin with SPF 30, and 2% with SPF 50. This is also how you can still get tan while wearing sunscreen.
Can you still get a tan with SPF 70? ›Because no SPF product can protect you completely, you can still get a tan while wearing sunscreen. And given that any tan, no matter how slight, indicates the body's response to damaging UV light, this isn't necessarily a good thing. You must be careful when outside for too long or when you notice skin tanning often.
Do you tan better wet? ›Dry is better than wet. Take it slowly and gently. It may sound like a drag, but burning doubles your risk of skin cancer - and intermittent, intense sun exposure raises your risk by 70 per cent. For more information go to www.sunsmart.org.uk.
What color makes you more tan? ›
Citrusy Colors
If you want to show off your newly tanned skin, think about rocking some red, orange or yellow. All shades of orange, from peach to carrot, will make your tan especially noticeable. You'll want to stick with the shades of bright yellow, as they will do your skin the most favors.