Can you tan with sunscreen? The answer is yes, and it’s normal
A fairly common belief is that you don’t tan when you apply sunscreen. That’s false. To the question: “Can you tan with sunscreen?” the answer is yes. The confusion may come from the fact that sunscreen creates a “barrier” which prevents sunburns from forming, but not the sun itself from reaching the skin.
Understanding Tanning and the Role of Sunscreen
Tanning, so highly sought after every summer for its undeniable “healthy glow” effect, is actually just a clever defense mechanism set up by the epidermis to protect itself from the harmful effects of UV rays.
By increasing melanin production, the skin prevents UV rays from penetrating deeper and damaging tissues. While UVC rays are blocked by the ozone layer, UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and UVA rays for skin aging.
This is where sunscreen comes in. When applied regularly and correctly, it creates an extra filter that increases the protection of the epidermis against redness, overheating, and burns—the infamous sunburns.
However, a small proportion of UV rays still reaches the skin, naturally triggering the response mentioned above: an (over)production of melanin.
Can you tan with sunscreen and why?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to tan while using sunscreen, and that’s normal. Regardless of its UV index, sunscreen does not block all UV rays; it filters out a large part of them.
This allows the skin to tan gradually and safely, well protected from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays such as painful sunburns, irreversible premature skin aging, and the development of serious, sometimes incurable diseases.
In reality, sunscreen acts as a delayed filter. The higher the SPF (Sunburn Protection Factor), the longer you can delay the appearance of sunburn.
For example, if you have sensitive skin and turn red in just a few minutes, a sunscreen with SPF 50 multiplies that same amount of time by 50.
Choosing the right sunscreen to tan safely
The type of sunscreen you choose and its protection factor (SPF) therefore influence your tan. A high SPF sunscreen (30 or more) allows for a slower, gentler tan but offers better protection against UV damage. A low SPF sunscreen (15 or less) allows for a faster, deeper tan, but provides less protection against UV rays.
Now that you know it’s possible to tan even with sunscreen, let’s see how to choose the most suitable protection for your skin. For you, Sacrées Natures Corine de Farme has developed a whole range of face and body sunscreens with clean formulas and recyclable packaging.
The face and body sunscreen SPF 50 (also available in SPF 30) provides effective protection against UVA and UVB. Enriched with Tahitian monoï, it hydrates and leaves the skin satiny throughout exposure. Formulated, manufactured, and packaged in France, its bottle proudly displays the blue, white, and red colors of Made in France.
For sensitive skin, Corine de Farme has created the face and body sunscreen SPF50+. Fragrance-free, tested under pharmaceutical and dermatological control, it also contains the moisturizing power of tiare flower.
Also, the face and body sunscreen SPF50+ Babies & Kids is perfectly suited to protect the delicate skin of little ones from age 3. Fragrance-free, non-greasy, and non-sticky, it leaves the skin soft, hydrated, and well protected.
3 tips for tanning safely
Once you’ve chosen the best sunscreen, reapply it regularly (about every two hours), especially if you sweat or swim often.
Avoid prolonged exposure and stay out of the sun between 12 and 4 p.m. every day. If you go out, don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat and tinted sunglasses, in addition to your Corine de Farme protection.
Finally, drink plenty of water during periods of high heat and apply an after-sun moisturizing lotion or a refreshing gel every day to soothe the sensitized cells of your epidermis.
Find lots of other information, especially about the choice of dry oils available in our online store. Also discover the importance of using a sun protection milk.
