Does Sunscreen Stop You Tanning? What You Need to Know
Does Sunscreen Stop You Tanning?
If you're hoping for a summer glow, you might wonder: will sunscreen stop me from tanning?
The short answer is it can reduce tanning, but it doesn't necessarily prevent it completely.
Sunscreen filters UV radiation, reducing the amount that reaches your skin. However, no sunscreen provides 100% protection, so some UV can still reach the skin - particularly if you don't apply enough or don't reapply regularly.
But there's an important distinction:
A tan from UV exposure is a sign of skin damage - not healthy or protected skin.
Can You Tan Through SPF 30 or SPF 50?
You may still develop a tan while wearing sunscreen, particularly if you're exposed to UV for a prolonged period.
However, don't use a lower SPF or deliberately skip sunscreen because you want to tan.
SPF 30 filters approximately 97% of UVB radiation, while SPF 50 filters around 98%. Both should be applied generously and reapplied regularly.
And remember: SPF isn't designed to give you permission to stay in the sun for longer.
👉 Read: SPF 30 vs SPF 50 — Which Should You Use?
Is a Sun Tan Actually Healthy?
No.
A natural tan happens because your skin is responding to UV exposure. Cancer Research UK describes a tan as a sign of skin damage, and there is no safe way to tan through UV exposure.
That doesn't mean you need to avoid enjoying summer. It simply means you can separate enjoying the sunshine from deliberately exposing your skin to UV to change its colour.
Use sunscreen, seek shade when UV is strong, cover up and protect your eyes - then get your glow another way.
Want a Tan? Try Self-Tan Instead
If you love the look of a golden tan, self-tanning products offer a safer alternative to UV tanning.
Fake tan works by temporarily colouring the outer layers of the skin, rather than relying on UV exposure. Cancer Research UK recommends fake or spray tan as a safer alternative to sunbathing or sunbeds.
At Sun & Skin, you can explore options from brands including:
Australian Gold - tanning and bronzing products for a sun-kissed look.
Lucy Bee - natural-inspired tanning and skincare options.
Evolve Organic Beauty - skincare-led products for a healthy-looking glow.
Does Fake Tan Protect You From the Sun?
No.
This is an important one: a fake tan does not provide meaningful UV protection.
Even if your skin looks bronzed, you still need sunscreen when you're exposed to UV.
Think of it this way:
Self-tan = colour.
SPF = UV protection.
You can absolutely use both.
How to Get a Glow Without Sun Damage
Want that holiday glow without deliberately tanning in the sun?
☀️ Wear SPF 30 or higher with strong UVA protection.
🧴 Apply enough and reapply regularly.
👒 Use shade, clothing and sunglasses when UV is strong.
✨ Use self-tan when you want a bronzed appearance.
👉 Read: How to Get a Summer Glow Without Sun Damage
Find Your Perfect SPF & Glow
Not sure which sunscreen or self-tan is right for you?
We've worked with dermatologist Dr Adil Sheraz to curate our collections and create our Skin Quiz, helping you find products suited to your skin and preferences.
Or shop our sunscreen collection → and explore self-tanning →.
Stocking up? Shop Saver Bundles →
Related Reading
SPF 30 vs SPF 50: Which Sunscreen Should You Use?
How Much Sunscreen Do You Need?
Do You Need SPF Every Day in the UK?
Trusted Sources
NHS - Sunscreen and sun safety
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/
Cancer Research UK - Sun safety
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/sun-uv-and-cancer/sun-safety
Cancer Research UK — Tanning, fake tan and Melanotan
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/sun-uv-and-cancer/fake-tan-and-melanotan-injections