Many people believe that using a high protection product means you cannot achieve a glow at all. That assumption is flat out wrong, as the right formula helps you develop color while keeping your skin healthy.
Finding the best sunscreens to get tan requires a balance between safety and cosmetic results. I have put together a list of formulas that help you maintain a healthy radiance under the summer sun.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize broad spectrum protection to ensure you are filtering both UVA and UVB rays even when aiming for a bronze glow.
- Check the SPF rating carefully, because formulas labeled as intensifiers without sunscreen do not provide any protection against burning.
- Look for added moisturizers like aloe vera or coconut oil to keep your skin hydrated so your color lasts longer without peeling.
- Choose water resistant options if you plan to spend time in the pool or the ocean to ensure your protection stays put.
- Opt for instant bronzer formulas if you want an immediate hint of color while the sun works on your natural base.
| Best Overall Protector |  |
Australian Gold Spray Gel Bronzer SPF 30 | Quick absorbing gel formula | Immediate bronzing effect | Broad spectrum protection | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Classic Tanning Staple |  |
Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion SPF 8 | Contains Vitamin E | Traditional lotion texture | Reliable brand heritage | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Gentle Moisturizing Choice |  |
Panama Jack Tanning Lotion SPF 8 | Paraben and gluten free | Water resistant for 80 minutes | Antioxidant enriched | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Bronzing Shield |  |
Australian Gold Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 | Classic lotion application | Pleasant coconut scent | Non-greasy finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Pure Accelerator Power |  |
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier | Tea Tree Oil infused | Excellent skin hydration | Accelerates natural tanning | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Convenient Application Spray |  |
Australian Gold Continuous Spray SPF 15 | Easy to apply | Dries very quickly | Provides immediate glow | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Mediterranean Glow Enhancer |  |
Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel | Carrot and coconut oils | Rich, deep finish | Intensive hydration | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Tropical Scented Favorite |  |
Sun Bum Browning Body Lotion SPF 15 | Reef friendly ingredients | Nice scent profile | Moisturizing Vitamin E | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Modern Luxury Experience |  |
Vacation Orange Gelée SPF 30 | Luxurious balm-to-oil texture | Transparent and clean | Travel friendly size | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Value Pack |  |
Coppertone Radiant Tan Lotion SPF 8 | Lightweight and comfortable | Simple application | Value oriented bundle | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Australian Gold Spray Gel Bronzer SPF 30
If you want to pick up some color without sacrificing sun safety, this spray gel is your primary candidate. It combines a broad spectrum SPF 30 with a subtle bronzer that gives you an immediate, healthy glow as soon as you apply it.
The formula absorbs quickly, acting like a lightweight veil that doesn't leave you feeling sticky or weighed down. Just remember that the bronzer can transfer onto light fabrics if you aren't careful, so give it a minute to dry before getting dressed.
- Brand:Australian Gold
- Type:Spray Gel
- SPF Rating:SPF 30
- Volume:8 Ounces
- Key Ingredients:Bronzer, Aloe
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Oxybenzone free formula
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free production
- Additional Feature:Moisturizing hydration boost
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Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion SPF 8
This is for the person who prioritizes the tanning process while keeping a basic layer of protection in place. The SPF 8 rating is quite low, so it is best suited for those who already have a base tan or have skin that doesn't burn easily.
You get the addition of Vitamin E, which helps nourish the skin while you spend time outdoors. Because the protection level is minimal, be sure to reapply frequently, especially if you are swimming.
- Brand:Coppertone
- Type:Lotion
- SPF Rating:SPF 8
- Volume:8 Fluid Ounces
- Key Ingredients:Vitamin E
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Dye free formula
- Additional Feature:PABA free composition
- Additional Feature:Broad spectrum coverage
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Panama Jack Tanning Lotion SPF 8
Panama Jack has long been a staple for beachgoers, and this lotion lives up to that reputation with an antioxidant-rich formula. It is a great option if you have sensitive skin, as it skips parabens and gluten entirely.
The SPF 8 protection is modest, serving more as a companion to your tanning goals than a heavy-duty shield. Since it is water resistant for 80 minutes, it holds up well when you take frequent dips in the ocean.
- Brand:Panama Jack
- Type:Lotion
- SPF Rating:SPF 8
- Volume:6 Fluid Ounces
- Key Ingredients:Antioxidants
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free formulation
- Additional Feature:PABA free ingredients
- Additional Feature:Moisturizing base
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Australian Gold Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30
Sometimes you prefer a traditional lotion over a spray, and this version delivers the same high-quality bronzing results in a creamy, spreadable format. It feels moisturizing on the skin, which is a major plus when you are dealing with the drying effects of salt and sun.
The coconut scent provides a nice tropical experience that feels like a vacation in a bottle. Keep in mind that while it provides good protection, the bronzer is cosmetic and will wash off in the shower.
- Brand:Australian Gold
- Type:Lotion
- SPF Rating:SPF 30
- Volume:8 Fluid Ounces
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Broad spectrum protection
- Additional Feature:Cruelty free testing
- Additional Feature:Oxybenzone free
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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier
This product is not a sunscreen, so treat it as a tanning intensifier intended to speed up your natural color development. It is loaded with Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera to ensure your skin stays soft and supple throughout the session.
Because it contains no SPF, you should layer this with a separate sunscreen to avoid painful burns. It is a fantastic tool for those who already have a base tan and want to deepen their shade.
- Brand:Australian Gold
- Type:Intensifier Lotion
- Volume:8.5 Fluid Ounces
- Key Ingredients:Tea Tree Oil, Aloe
- Additional Feature:Vitamin E enriched
- Additional Feature:Fast acting formula
- Additional Feature:Moisturizing benefits
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Australian Gold Continuous Spray SPF 15
When you want to cover hard-to-reach areas, a continuous spray is the best way to maintain even coverage. This SPF 15 option provides a middle ground for protection, perfect for shorter sessions under the sun.
The immediate glow comes from the bronzer, which helps you see exactly where you have applied the product. It dries quickly, so you can get back to your book or nap without feeling like a slippery mess.
- Brand:Australian Gold
- Type:Continuous Spray
- SPF Rating:SPF 15
- Volume:6 Ounces
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Non-greasy feel
- Additional Feature:Broad spectrum protection
- Additional Feature:Oxybenzone free
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Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel
If you want to achieve that deep, rich color often associated with Mediterranean summers, this gel is a popular choice. It uses a blend of carrot and coconut oil to help the skin develop a darker tone while staying hydrated.
The gel texture is unique and leaves a luminous sheen on the skin that looks great in the sunlight. Like other intensifiers, it lacks significant SPF, so pair it with a sunscreen if you plan on staying out for more than a few minutes.
- Brand:Carroten
- Type:Tanning Gel
- Volume:5 Ounces
- Key Ingredients:Carrot, Coconut Oil
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Contains Vitamin A and E
- Additional Feature:Non-greasy texture
- Additional Feature:Made in Greece
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Sun Bum Browning Body Lotion SPF 15
Sun Bum is known for a specific coastal aesthetic, and this browning lotion fits right in with its moisturizing, vitamin-rich formula. The SPF 15 offers enough protection to keep you safe while you work on that summer glow.
It is Hawaii 104 act compliant, meaning it is free from ingredients that damage coral reefs. This is a great choice for the environmentally conscious beachgoer who wants a reliable tan.
- Brand:Sun Bum
- Type:Browning Lotion
- SPF Rating:SPF 15
- Volume:8.5 Ounces
- Key Ingredients:Vitamin E
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Broad spectrum coverage
- Additional Feature:Non-greasy formula
- Additional Feature:Hawaii compliant
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Vacation Orange Gelée SPF 30
This product brings a touch of retro luxury to your pool bag, offering a unique balm-to-oil texture that feels fantastic. It is transparent, so you don't have to worry about white casts or staining your favorite swimsuit.
The SPF 30 makes it a versatile performer that balances actual protection with the desire for a deep, healthy-looking tan. The tube key is a clever inclusion that ensures you get every last drop out of the container.
- Brand:Vacation
- Type:Sunscreen Gel
- SPF Rating:SPF 30
- Volume:3.12 Fluid Ounces
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Includes tube key
- Additional Feature:Hydrating formula
- Additional Feature:Broad spectrum protection
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Coppertone Radiant Tan Lotion SPF 8
Sometimes you just need a standard, no-nonsense lotion that gets the job done without any gimmicks. This two-pack is ideal if you are heading out for a long weekend and want to make sure you have enough product for everyone.
It is lightweight and keeps the skin hydrated, which prevents the peeling that can ruin a fresh tan. It is a simple, effective way to get your color on while keeping the basics covered.
- Brand:Coppertone
- Type:Tanning Lotion
- SPF Rating:SPF 8
- Volume:8 Fluid Ounces
- Water Resistant:Yes
- Additional Feature:Non-greasy feel
- Additional Feature:Moisturizes while tanning
- Additional Feature:Oxybenzone free
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a tan while wearing SPF 30?
Yes, you absolutely can. Sunscreen does not stop the tanning process, but it does slow it down to a safer pace. This helps you avoid a burn, which usually just leads to peeling skin rather than a lasting tan.
How often should I reapply?
You should aim to apply a fresh layer every two hours at a minimum. If you go for a swim or participate in activities that make you sweat, you need to reapply immediately after toweling off.
Do tanning oils provide enough protection?
Many modern tanning oils are formulated with SPF, but you must check the label carefully to ensure it is at least SPF 15. If the oil does not have an SPF rating, it offers almost no protection against the radiation that causes skin damage.
Is it possible to tan through a window?
Glass windows typically block UVB rays, which are the main cause of surface burning, but they often let UVA rays pass through. These UVA rays can still cause skin damage and aging, so you are not necessarily safer just because you are indoors. It is always wise to wear protection if you are sitting in direct sunlight near a window for a long time.
What is the best time of day to tan?
The sun is at its most intense between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. If you are looking to tan, aiming for the early morning or late afternoon provides a more manageable intensity for your skin. You will have a much better chance of staying comfortable and avoiding a harsh burn during these quieter hours.
