Getting a fake tan is great for that sun-kissed glow, but it also makes protecting your skin even more important. Some sunscreens can mess with your tan, leaving streaks or fading it too quickly. Finding the right sunscreen that protects your skin and keeps your tan looking perfect can be tricky. I’ve tried a bunch of different sunscreens to see what works best with a fake tan, and I’m here to share my top picks.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion: Great all-around protection, smells amazing, and won’t ruin your tan.
- COOLA Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 30: Lightweight spray, organic ingredients, and keeps your tan looking fresh.
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55: Oil-free, non-comedogenic, and won’t clog pores or streak your tan.
- Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion SPF 50: Mineral-based, gentle on sensitive skin, and tan-friendly.
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60: High protection, hydrating, and won’t leave a white cast on your tan.
Top 5 Best Sunscreen For Fake Tan
1. Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion
Sun Bum is a classic for a reason. This sunscreen smells fantastic, feels great on the skin, and provides reliable sun protection. Plus, it won’t leave weird streaks on your fake tan. I’ve used this for years, and it’s always been a winner.
Pros:
- ✅ Smells amazing (like coconuts!)
- ✅ Doesn’t streak or fade fake tan
- ✅ Water-resistant
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel a bit greasy if you use too much
- ❌ Not ideal for very oily skin
- ❌ Scent might be too strong for some
Verdict: Best overall sunscreen for fake tan, especially if you love the beachy scent and need reliable protection.
2. COOLA Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray SPF 30
COOLA is perfect if you prefer a spray sunscreen. It’s super lightweight, easy to apply, and made with organic ingredients. It feels great on the skin, and more importantly, it keeps your fake tan looking its best. I like to use this when I’m in a hurry.
Pros:
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to apply
- ✅ Organic ingredients
- ✅ Doesn’t interfere with fake tan development
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey
- ❌ Spray application might not provide even coverage
- ❌ Scent can be strong for some
Verdict: Great for those who want an organic, easy-to-apply sunscreen that won’t mess with their tan.
3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is a solid choice if you have oily or acne-prone skin. It’s oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. It also dries quickly and leaves a matte finish, making it perfect for everyday use. I’ve recommended this to friends who struggle with breakouts, and they love it.
Pros:
- ✅ Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- ✅ Dries quickly with a matte finish
- ✅ High SPF protection
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel a bit drying on very dry skin
- ❌ Might leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones
- ❌ Some find the scent a bit strong
Verdict: Best for oily or acne-prone skin, offering high protection without causing breakouts or streaking your tan.
4. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion SPF 50
If you prefer mineral-based sunscreens, Australian Gold Botanical is a fantastic option. It uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for sun protection, which is gentle on sensitive skin. It blends in well and doesn’t typically interfere with fake tans. I always pack this one when I travel.
Pros:
- ✅ Mineral-based (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide)
- ✅ Gentle on sensitive skin
- ✅ Fragrance-free
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit thick and harder to blend
- ❌ May leave a white cast, especially on darker skin tones
- ❌ Can feel a bit drying
Verdict: Ideal for sensitive skin and those who prefer mineral sunscreens, offering good protection without irritating your skin or ruining your tan.
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60
La Roche-Posay Anthelios is a great all-around sunscreen that provides high SPF protection. It’s hydrating, feels comfortable on the skin, and absorbs quickly. It also doesn’t leave a white cast, which is a big plus when you have a fake tan. I often reach for this one when I know I’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
Pros:
- ✅ High SPF protection
- ✅ Hydrating and comfortable
- ✅ Doesn’t leave a white cast
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey
- ❌ Might feel a bit heavy on very oily skin
- ❌ Scent might be too strong for some
Verdict: Excellent choice for those who need high SPF protection and want a sunscreen that feels good on the skin and won’t affect their tan.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right sunscreen for your fake tan involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Ingredients: Avoid sunscreens with alcohol or harsh chemicals, as these can strip your tan. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera.
- Type of Sunscreen: Lotions are generally better than sprays, as they provide more even coverage. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are often gentler on fake tans.
- SPF Level: Aim for SPF 30 or higher for adequate protection.
- Skin Type: If you have oily skin, go for oil-free and non-comedogenic options. If you have dry skin, choose a hydrating formula.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other fake tan users to see what works best for them.
- Water Resistance: If you’ll be swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen.
FAQs
Q: Will sunscreen ruin my fake tan?
A: Some sunscreens can cause streaking or fading, especially those with alcohol or harsh chemicals. Choosing the right sunscreen is key to maintaining your tan.
Q: How often should I apply sunscreen when I have a fake tan?
A: Apply sunscreen liberally 15-20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Q: Can I use regular sunscreen on my face if I have a fake tan?
A: Yes, but make sure it’s a facial sunscreen that’s gentle and won’t clog your pores. Look for oil-free and non-comedogenic options.
Q: Are mineral sunscreens better for fake tans?
A: Mineral sunscreens are often gentler and less likely to interfere with your fake tan, making them a good choice.
Q: Can I use tanning oil with SPF on top of my fake tan?
A: It’s best to avoid tanning oils, as they can strip your tan. Stick to sunscreens specifically designed for sun protection.
Conclusion
Finding the right sunscreen to protect your skin and preserve your fake tan doesn’t have to be a challenge. There are many great options available that will keep you safe in the sun without compromising your glow. Whether you prefer a classic lotion, a convenient spray, or a mineral-based formula, there’s a sunscreen out there that’s perfect for you. By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy your fake tan while staying protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
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