Self-tanner, the sun and SPF

“It is a common misconception that a bronzed complexion from self-tanner also protects against UV radiation.”

Self-tanner gives you colour without the sun, but what if you still want to go outside afterwards? The most important rule to know first: self-tanner does not protect you from the sun. Below, you’ll read what self-tanner does and does not do in the sun, whether you can use it before a sunbed, and how to safely combine it with sun protection. You can find the basics of self-tanner itself in our complete self-tanning guide.

Does self-tanner protect you from the sun?

No, self-tanner does not protect you from the sun. It only gives colour and does not contain SPF, so your skin can still burn. Always use a separate high-factor sunscreen when you are in the sun.

It is a common misconception that a bronzed complexion from self-tanner also protects against UV radiation. The colour only sits in the upper skin cells and does not block radiation. Self-tanner and sun protection are therefore two separate products that you use alongside each other.

Can you go into the sun with self-tanner?

Yes, you can go into the sun with self-tanner. However, self-tanner does not protect your skin and the sun will not make your self-tan develop any deeper. That is why you should always apply a high-factor sunscreen.

The sun does not further develop your self-tan, because the colour does not come from UV exposure. Your own skin underneath the self-tanner can, of course, still react to the sun, including the risks of sunburn and skin damage. Treat your skin as if you have no colour: protect it with SPF and avoid spending long periods unprotected in direct sunlight.

Can you use self-tanner before a sunbed?

Just like with the sun, a sunbed will not make your self-tan colour any deeper, because that colour is not created by UV exposure. In addition, UV radiation from sunbeds is harmful to the skin, so it is not recommended. Self-tanner is the safer alternative to a sunbed.

Anyone who uses a sunbed hoping to intensify their self-tan will not achieve that effect, apart from exposing the skin to harmful radiation. The whole strength of self-tanner is that it gives colour without that radiation. It is therefore best not to combine it with a sunbed.

How do you combine self-tanner with sun protection?

Apply your self-tanner first and let it fully develop for 6 to 8 hours. After that, and on the following days when you are in the sun, apply a separate SPF over your skin. A tinted day cream with SPF combines colour and protection for the face.

The order matters: sun protection is the final step on your skin, after the self-tanner has developed. For the face, Crème Bronze SPF30, a tinted day cream with SPF30, is a convenient way to combine colour and protection. On the body, simply use a generous layer of sunscreen when you are in the sun.