Those seeking a bronzed complexion might be tempted to skimp on SPF this summer, so L360 speaks to experts to discover if you can still tan while staying safe.
As the UK weather heats up, the age-old summer question starts to play on everyone’s lips: can you catch a tan while wearing sunscreen?
Despite the potential risks of sun exposure, we can’t get enough of lounging in the sunshine in search of that bronzed goddess glow.
Although skincare experts agree that sunscreen needs to be worn all year around, sunnier climates often tempt people to skip the application in favour of tanning.
Before you ditch the SPF, L360 speaks to experts about whether you can still achieve a healthy sun kiss without risking your skin health.
Read more: The best SPF sunscreens for all types of skin
Can you still get a tan if you use sunscreen?
Yes, you can still get a tan if you’re wearing sunscreen.
According to In Inês, founder of skin health brand InêSKN, “While sunscreen plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful UV rays and can certainly reduce the risk of tanning, it doesn’t completely prevent it in all circumstances.”
That’s because no sunscreen blocks out 100% of the sun’s rays. Even SPF 50 — often seen as the holy grail of protection — filters out 98% of UV radiation. That leftover 2%? Yep, that’s still enough to activate melanin production and leave you with a (lighter) tan.
So yes, you might not get the rich, deep bronze of a sun-drenched holiday in the olden days when suncream was an afterthought, but what you will get is a much safer tan. And that’s the kind of glow we’re here for.
Because alongside the feel-good serotonin boost and the dreamy summer pics, prolonged sun exposure without protection ups your risk of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, premature ageing and even skin cancer. All that for the sake of an extra shade? Not worth it.
Dr Cuross Bakhtiar from Harley Street Cosmetic emphasises that not all sunscreens are created equal, so it’s important to choose wisely when applying them this summer.
Dr Bakhtiar explains that there are two main types of sunscreen formulations: physical and chemical. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays.
These sunscreens tend to be more stable when exposed to light, which may help them last a bit longer. However, the difference is minimal and all sunscreens should be reapplied every two hours to ensure continued protection.
One thing to note about mineral sunscreens is that while they tend to be more stable, they often leave a white cast on darker skin tones, which is something to consider when choosing the right sunscreen for your needs.
Read more: 5 best sweat-proof SPFs for face and body, tried & tested
Can you get a tan while sitting in the shade?
It’s a common misconception that sitting in the shade protects you from the sun. While it can help reduce direct sun exposure, it doesn’t always fully protect you — so you may still see a tan creeping in.
Dr Bakhtiar explains: “It’s the UVB rays that will give you the tan, so your skin is exposed to the rays even if you sit in the shade.” This because harmful rays can reflect off surfaces like concrete, sand and water, making it important to apply sunscreen even when you’re not directly under the sun.
According to Surgeon General, one in three people report experiencing sunburn each year. Part of the problem is that people aren’t taking proper precautions, not realising that they’re still in harm’s way even when out of direct sunlight.
The position of the sun also plays a huge role in how much protection that shade really offers. The sun’s angle changes throughout the day, so a cosy tree that provides perfect cover in the early afternoon might not give you the same protection later on. To stay safe, pay attention to how the sunlight shifts and be ready to move if those rays start creeping into your space.
The best defence? Cover up. A stylish hat is a must to protect your face, and if it’s not too hot, long sleeves and trousers can help create a barrier between your skin and the sun. Sunglasses are also essential for protecting them from harmful UV rays.
So, whether you’re lounging on a beach, relaxing under a parasol, or sipping iced coffee in the park, sunscreen should be part of your daily routine. Think of it as your skin’s secret weapon for a healthy, glowing look — because nothing beats the radiance of well-protected skin.
Read more: SPF 100 is the highest-factor sun cream. How does it work?
Best SPFs for tanning
Below are the best SPFs with built-in tan accelerator to help you get a glow while protecting your skin:
- Ultrasun Tan Activator for Body SPF30 – buy from LookFantastic for £28
- Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Tan Boosting Anti-ageing Body Oil SPF30 – buy from SpaceNK for £28
- Tanning Sun Oil High Protection SPF30 face and body – buy from LookFantastic for £23
