Getting a spray tan gives you that instant glow, but protecting your skin from the sun is still crucial. Many sunscreens can mess with your tan, leaving streaks or fading it too quickly. Finding the right sunscreen that protects your skin and preserves your tan can be tricky. So, I’ve tested a bunch and found some winners that work well with spray tans.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray: Great all-around protection, easy to apply.
- COOLA Guava Mango Sunscreen Spray SPF 30: Smells amazing, lightweight, and reef-friendly.
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55: Oil-free, non-comedogenic, and provides high protection.
- Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Sport Spray SPF 30: Mineral-based, good for sensitive skin, and water-resistant.
- Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Spray SPF 50: Broad spectrum protection with a matte finish.
Top 5 Best Sunscreen With Spray Tan
1. Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray
Sun Bum is a popular choice for a reason. This sunscreen spray is easy to apply, smells fantastic (like summer!), and provides decent protection without ruining your spray tan. It’s also readily available in most stores.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to apply spray.
- ✅ Smells great.
- ✅ Doesn’t streak or fade spray tan easily.
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel a little greasy.
- ❌ Needs reapplication every 80 minutes.
- ❌ Not mineral-based.
Verdict: A solid everyday sunscreen that works well with spray tans, especially if you don’t mind a slightly oily feel.
2. COOLA Guava Mango Sunscreen Spray SPF 30
COOLA is a bit of a splurge, but it’s worth it for the luxurious feel and amazing scent. The Guava Mango is a personal favorite. It’s lightweight, doesn’t feel sticky, and is reef-friendly, which is a bonus.
Pros:
- ✅ Lightweight and non-greasy.
- ✅ Smells incredible.
- ✅ Reef-friendly formula.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than other options.
- ❌ SPF 30 might not be enough for intense sun exposure.
- ❌ Scent might be too strong for some.
Verdict: If you’re willing to spend a little more, COOLA provides great protection and smells divine while preserving your spray tan.
3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer is a classic for a reason. It’s oil-free, non-comedogenic, and provides broad-spectrum protection. I’ve used this for years, even before spray tans, and it’s always been reliable.
Pros:
- ✅ Oil-free and non-comedogenic.
- ✅ High SPF protection.
- ✅ Dries quickly with a matte finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Can leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones.
- ❌ Some users find the scent strong.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for spray tans, but works well.
Verdict: A reliable, affordable option for those with oily or acne-prone skin who want high SPF protection without messing up their spray tan.
4. Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Sport Spray SPF 30
If you prefer mineral sunscreens, Bare Republic is a great choice. It uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier against the sun. This one is a good option for sensitive skin and for those who are active.
Pros:
- ✅ Mineral-based (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide).
- ✅ Good for sensitive skin.
- ✅ Water-resistant.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit thick and require more rubbing in.
- ❌ May leave a white cast, especially if not rubbed in well.
- ❌ Some users find the scent unpleasant.
Verdict: An excellent choice for those seeking mineral-based sun protection that’s gentle on the skin and suitable for outdoor activities, but be prepared for a bit of extra effort during application and potential white cast.
5. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Australian Gold is known for its tanning products, but their botanical sunscreen line is also fantastic. This spray offers broad-spectrum protection with a matte finish, which is great if you don’t like the greasy feel of some sunscreens. Plus, it contains ingredients like Kakadu plum and eucalyptus.
Pros:
- ✅ Broad spectrum SPF 50 protection.
- ✅ Matte finish.
- ✅ Contains botanical ingredients.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be drying for some skin types.
- ❌ Scent might not appeal to everyone.
- ❌ May require more frequent reapplication after swimming or sweating.
Verdict: A good option for those who want high SPF protection with a matte finish and don’t mind a potentially drying effect. It works well with spray tans and offers a unique botanical blend.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right sunscreen to use with a spray tan isn’t just about SPF; it’s about the ingredients and how they interact with the tanning solution. Here’s what to consider:
- Oil-Free Formulas: Oils can break down the tanning solution, leading to streaks or uneven fading. Look for oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreens.
- Alcohol-Free: Alcohol can dry out your skin, causing your tan to fade faster.
- Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens: Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are often recommended as they are less likely to interfere with the tan. However, some chemical sunscreens also work well. Test a small area first if you’re unsure.
- Application Method: Sprays are generally better as they provide an even, light layer without too much rubbing. Lotions can work, but apply gently.
- SPF Level: Don’t skimp on SPF! Even with a tan, you need broad-spectrum protection of at least SPF 30.
- Reapplication: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
FAQs
Q: Will sunscreen completely block my spray tan?
A: No, sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from sun damage, even with a spray tan. It won’t block the tan itself, but it can help prevent fading.
Q: Can I use regular sunscreen with a spray tan?
A: Yes, but it’s best to choose a sunscreen that is oil-free and alcohol-free to avoid streaking or fading. Mineral sunscreens are often a safe bet.
Q: How soon after a spray tan can I apply sunscreen?
A: Wait at least 4-6 hours after your spray tan before applying sunscreen. This allows the tanning solution to fully develop.
Q: Does sweating affect my spray tan, and should I reapply sunscreen more often?
A: Yes, sweating can affect your spray tan and cause it to fade quicker. Reapply sunscreen more often if you’re sweating heavily or swimming.
Q: Are expensive sunscreens really better for spray tans?
A: Not necessarily. Price doesn’t always equate to better performance. Focus on the ingredients and formulation (oil-free, alcohol-free, mineral-based) rather than the price tag.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect sunscreen that plays nicely with your spray tan doesn’t have to be a chore. Each of these sunscreens offers something unique, whether it’s a delightful scent, a matte finish, or mineral-based protection. The key is to consider your skin type, activities, and ingredient preferences to find the best fit. So, slather on that SPF and enjoy your sun-kissed glow without compromising your skin’s health!
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