Does Sun Lotion Prevent Tanning? What Experts Say

Does Sun Lotion Prevent Tanning? What Experts Say

Even if you apply sunscreen regularly, you may still notice a tan developing during the summer months. This raises the question: Does sun lotion prevent tanning? The reality is that you can still tan, even with a high SPF. Keep reading to learn what experts say.

Does Sun Lotion Prevent Tanning?

  • When applied correctly and reapplied every two hours or after swimming, sun lotion greatly lowers your chances of tanning or burning. However, tanning can still happen for several reasons. Sunscreen works by blocking or absorbing UV radiation, which causes tanning and burning. But no sunscreen offers 100% protection, so some UV radiation can still get through.

Increased sun exposure results in more UV radiation reaching the skin, stimulating melanin production, which gives skin its color. An increase in melanin production leads to a tan. In short, while proper sun lotion use significantly reduces the risk of sun damage, it isn’t completely foolproof.

Why You Get Tanning With Sun Lotion? 

  • If you notice you’re still getting a noticeable tan despite applying sun lotion, here are some possible reasons:

Poor Application

  • Improper application is a common reason for tanning or burning, even while using sun lotion. It’s important to apply enough sun lotion to achieve SPF protection. Use about two tablespoons to cover your body, including areas like your face, ears, neck, feet, and scalp.

Low SPF

  • Not all sun lotions are the same. Ensure you’re using a broad-spectrum sun lotion, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Most sun lotions today are broad-spectrum, but it’s always wise to check. Also, stick to an SPF of 30 or higher.

Expired Sun Lotion

  • Does sun lotion expire? Yes, it does. Make sure you’re not using a product past its “best by” date.

Mixed Products

  • Sun lotion doesn’t always work well with other ingredients. Avoid layering two silicone-based products together (which can cause pilling), applying sun lotion over oils, or mixing it with other lotions, oils, or foundations.

Excessive Sun Exposure

  • Even the best sun lotion doesn’t block 100% of UV rays. Wear hats, use a sun umbrella, seek shade, and try to avoid peak sunlight hours whenever possible.

How SPF Affects Tanning

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a rating that measures how well sun lotion protects against harmful UV rays. These rays cause skin damage, including tanning and sunburn. The SPF number indicates how much UV radiation is blocked by the lotion.

Here’s what the different SPF ratings mean:

  • SPF 15 blocks 93.3% of UV rays
  • SPF 30 blocks 96.7% of UV rays
  • SPF 45 blocks 97.8% of UV rays
  • SPF 50 blocks 98% of UV rays

SPF numbers higher than 50 don’t block significantly more UV rays. No sunscreen can provide 100% protection, with 98% being the maximum.

Why Sun Tanning Is Not a Good Idea?

Woman using sun tan lotion and smiling in the park

  • Despite myths about base tans or how great you look with a golden glow, there’s no such thing as a safe tan. Even if your skin isn’t burning, tanning still causes DNA changes within your skin cells that can lead to long-term damage. The safest option for achieving that bronzed look is using self-tanning lotions, which offer a sun-kissed appearance without the risks of sun exposure or tanning beds.

Shop our top-rated self-tanning lotions for a flawless tan every time. Tanning Lotion Warehouse offers all brands of sun tan lotion and indoor tanning lotion products at unbeatable prices. Call us at 888-468-8267 to find the perfect match for your skin.

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