Yes, you can still soak up some rays and get a tan even when you’re wearing sunscreen. It’s helpful to know what a tan really is and how sunscreen does its job.
A tan is actually your skin cell’s way of reacting to DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When your skin is exposed to UV rays, it ramps up melanin production, which is the pigment that gives your skin its color. This helps protect your skin from further skin damage.
Here’s why you can still get a tan even when wearing sunscreen:
- Sunscreen isn’t a total block: No matter what SPF you choose, sunscreen won’t be able to block out every single UV ray. For instance, an SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97% of those UVB radiations, while an SPF 50 keeps out around 98%. That small bit of UV rays can still kickstart melanin production and give you a nice tan.
- Improper application: A lot of us forget to apply sunscreen, skip some areas, or don’t remember to reapply it every two hours—or even after a swim or workout. This can leave your skin open to UV exposure, which can lead to more tanning than you might want.
- The wrong kind of sunscreen: While SPF is all about keeping you safe from UVB rays, tanning is caused by both UVA and UVB rays. To really have your skin’s back, it’s best to reach for a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen. That way, you’re covered against both types of rays!
Just a reminder from dermatologists and skin cancer organizations: there’s really no such thing as a “safe” or “healthy” tan. If you’re looking to get that sun-kissed glow, self-tanning products are the way to go. They give you that lovely tanned look without turning your skin into a leather shoe in the future from all that harmful UV radiation.
Which SPF Is Best For Tanning?
Even a small amount of UV exposure can give you a tan, so it’s a good idea to pick a sunscreen that gives you protection without turning you into a ghost. This way, you can gradually get a nice, even tan without looking like a lobster. Choosing the right SPF and actually putting it on is really important if you want a tan without putting your skin at risk.
- SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays. This gives you a nice balance. It helps shield your skin from most of the sun’s harsh rays while still letting a little bit through, which can give you a gradual tan.
- Higher SPFs offer only slightly more protection. An SPF 50 sunscreen blocks around 98% of UVB rays. While it might seem tempting to reach for a higher SPF, the difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 isn’t huge. So, even with a higher SPF, you might still catch a tan. However, choosing for a higher SPF does offer extra protection against sunburn and skin damage.
- The key is broad-spectrum. A “broad-spectrum” sunscreen is your best choice when it comes to shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. While UVB rays are what usually lead to sunburns, UVA rays are the ones responsible for tanning and can lead to premature aging. By choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, you’re giving your skin a double layer of protection against both types of damaging radiation.
- Proper application is crucial. To really get the most out of your sunscreen, it’s important to apply it generously and remember to reapply every two hours—more often if you’re having fun in the water or getting a bit sweaty. Even a sunscreen with a high SPF won’t do much good if it’s not used the right way.
Just so you know, there’s no safe way to get a natural tan from the sun. So if you’re looking for that tanned look without the risks, sunless tanning products like self-tanning lotions or sprays are your best bet.
How Does Sunscreen Work?
Okay, so we’ve talked about SPF. Now let’s get into what makes sunscreen actually work. The effectiveness of your sunscreen—no matter the SPF number—comes down to its active ingredients. These special ingredients either form a physical barrier that bounces the UV rays away or a chemical filter that just eats them.
There are two main types of sunscreen, and they work in their own unique ways:
1. Physical Or Mineral Sunscreen
- How it works: This kind of sunscreen is made with natural mineral ingredients, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Instead of soaking into your skin, these minerals sit right on top, acting like a physical shield. They reflect and bounce away UV rays, just like a mirror, so they can’t get in and cause damage.
- Characteristics:
- You’ll feel secure right away after applying.
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- It’s often seen as a gentle choice, making it a good option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
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- Sometimes, it can leave a bit of a white cast on your skin, but there is no need to worry. Many of the newer formulations are created to be more transparent.
2. Chemical Sunscreen
- How it works: Chemical-based sunscreens are made with organic compounds like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. When you apply these products, the ingredients soak into your skin and start a chemical reaction. This reaction helps absorb UV radiations and transforms them into a small bit of heat, which is then released from your skin.
- Characteristics:
- It takes about 20 minutes for your skin to fully soak it in and start working its magic.
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- It’s lighter and blends in really easily, so you won’t have to worry about any white residue.
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- Some people might experience irritation or allergic reactions.
Most sunscreens you’ll find on store shelves today are labeled as broad-spectrum. This just means they have a mix of ingredients that help shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Why is this important, you ask? Well, UVB rays are the main causes behind sunburns, but those sneaky UVA rays go deeper into your skin, leading to tanning, premature aging, and other long-term skin damage.
