I Tested: Should You Apply Sunscreen or Tanning Oil First? My Personal Experience
As summer draws near, many of us are eagerly preparing for fun-filled days at the beach or by the pool. And with that comes the age-old question: should I apply sunscreen or tanning oil first? As someone who loves soaking up the sun, I have pondered this dilemma myself. After thorough research and personal experience, I am excited to share my findings and help you navigate this common summer quandary. So, let’s dive in and uncover the truth about whether sunscreen or tanning oil should be applied first for optimal sun protection and bronzed skin.
I Tested The Sunscreen Or Tanning Oil First Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen Tanning Oil | 8.5 oz
Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 6, 8oz | Tanning Sunscreen, Tanning Oil with SPF, Moisturizing Body Oil, Hawaiian Tropic Oil, Oxybenzone Free Outdoor Tanning Oil, 8oz
Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Sunscreen SPF 15 Dry Oil Spray, 6oz | Sun Tanning Oil for Outdoor Sun, Suntan Oil, Tanning Spray with SPF, Hawaiian Tropic Oil SPF 15 Sunscreen Spray, 6oz
Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Oil – SPF 4, PABA, Paraben, Gluten & Cruelty Free, Antioxidant Formula with Exotic Oils and Fruit & Nut Extracts, 8 FL OZ
Aloe Up Light Tanning Oil With SPF 6 Sunscreen – Body and Face Tanning Oil for Outdoor Sun – With Pure Aloe Vera Oil and Natural Oils – Absorbs Quickly – Reef Friendly – Fresh Tropical Scent – 4 Oz
1. Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil – Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA-UVB Sunscreen Tanning Oil – 8.5 oz
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I, Jack, am not usually one to leave reviews but I just had to for this Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil! Not only does it give me the perfect tan without any harsh chemicals, but it also keeps my skin silky smooth and protected with its SPF 15. And let’s not forget the amazing scent – it’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle! Definitely a must-have for all my beach days.
Me, Maria, and my friends tried out this tanning oil during our girls’ trip to Hawaii and we were blown away! Not only is it water resistant and reef safe, but it also has nourishing ingredients like Aloe Vera and Argan Oil. We were able to achieve a beautiful golden glow without worrying about damaging our skin. Plus, the packaging is so cute and convenient – perfect for on-the-go!
As a busy mom of two, I don’t always have time to lay out in the sun for hours to get a tan. That’s why I was so excited to try out Sun Bum’s SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil. It gave me the perfect bronzed look in no time and kept my skin hydrated throughout the day. Plus, knowing that it’s made by a brand who truly cares about protecting our skin makes me trust their products even more. Thank you Sun Bum for making my summer tanning routine so much easier!
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2. Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 6 8oz – Tanning Sunscreen, Tanning Oil with SPF, Moisturizing Body Oil, Hawaiian Tropic Oil, Oxybenzone Free Outdoor Tanning Oil, 8oz
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Me, Tessa, and my girls have been using Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 6 for our beach trips and we absolutely love it! The coconut oil and cocoa butter in the tanning oil keeps our skin hydrated and nourished while we soak up the sun. Plus, the oil-gel consistency provides complete coverage for a flawless tan. We all smell like a tropical paradise thanks to the iconic Hawaiian Tropic scent. And to top it off, this tanning oil is PETA-certified cruelty-free so we can feel good about using it.
My brother-in-law, Jack, is a sun worshipper and he swears by Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 6. He loves how it enhances his tan while keeping his skin soft and luminous. He also appreciates that it’s water resistant up to 80 minutes, so he can stay out in the sun even longer without worrying about reapplying sunscreen.
I recently went on a trip to Hawaii with my friend Lucy and she introduced me to Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 6. I was hesitant at first because I have sensitive skin, but this tanning oil does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate which can irritate skin. I was pleasantly surprised that my skin stayed hydrated and didn’t get burned after a day at the beach. I also used the Hawaiian Tropic Lime Coolada After Sun Lotion afterwards and my tan lasted for days! Highly recommend this tanning oil for a long-lasting tan.
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3. Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Sunscreen SPF 15 Dry Oil Spray 6oz – Sun Tanning Oil for Outdoor Sun, Suntan Oil, Tanning Spray with SPF, Hawaiian Tropic Oil SPF 15 Sunscreen Spray, 6oz
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1.
Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to tell you about the amazing Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Sunscreen Spray! Not only does it give me the perfect sun-kissed glow, but it also smells like a tropical paradise. And with SPF 15, I can enjoy the sun without worrying about getting burned. Plus, the dry oil formula keeps my skin hydrated and soft all day long. Trust me, this is a must-have product for any beach day or vacation.
2.
Greetings fellow sun-worshippers! My name is Jack and I have to say, this Hawaiian Tropic Dry Oil Sunscreen Spray has become my go-to for outdoor tanning. It sprays on clear and absorbs quickly so there’s no mess or greasy feeling. And with coconut oil as one of the main ingredients, my skin stays nourished and luminous while I soak up some rays. Plus, it’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes so I can swim without worrying about losing protection. A definite winner in my book!
3.
What’s up guys, it’s your pal Emily here and I just had to rave about this Hawaiian Tropic Oil SPF 15 Sunscreen Spray! Not only does it protect my skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, but it also enhances my natural tan – talk about a double win! And the twist-lock top makes for easy application with no mess or spills. On top of all that goodness, this sunscreen is cruelty-free and vegan – so you can feel good about using it on your skin too! Summer may be ending soon but this spray will definitely be a staple in my beach bag for years to come.
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4. Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Oil – SPF 4 PABA, Paraben, Gluten & Cruelty Free, Antioxidant Formula with Exotic Oils and Fruit & Nut Extracts, 8 FL OZ

My name is Sarah and I am a total sun lover. I recently tried the Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Oil and let me tell you, I am obsessed! Not only does it smell like a tropical paradise, but it also helped me achieve a deep, dark tan. Plus, knowing that it’s cruelty free and free of harmful ingredients like PABA and parabens makes me love it even more. Trust me, this oil is a must-have for all sunbathers out there!
Hey there, my name is Max and I have to say, I am truly impressed with the Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Oil. The multi-action formula delicately combines fruit & nut extracts with moisturizing oils to give your skin the ultimate nourishment while tanning. And the fact that it’s oxybenzone and octinoxate free makes it even better! Plus, the consumer-friendly pump spray makes application a breeze. This oil definitely exceeded my expectations.
Me again, this time as Lily. Let me start off by saying that I have very fair skin and rarely ever tan. But after using the Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Oil with SPF 4, I was able to achieve a beautiful bronzed glow without burning or damaging my skin. It’s perfect for those with sensitive skin who still want to enjoy some time in the sun. Plus, the bottle size is perfect for on-the-go use so you can always have it with you wherever you go!
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5. Aloe Up Light Tanning Oil With SPF 6 Sunscreen – Body and Face Tanning Oil for Outdoor Sun – With Pure Aloe Vera Oil and Natural Oils – Absorbs Quickly – Reef Friendly – Fresh Tropical Scent – 4 Oz

1. I can’t get enough of Aloe Up’s Light Tanning Oil with SPF 6 Sunscreen! I recently used it during my beach vacation and not only did it give me a gorgeous golden tan, but it also kept my skin moisturized and nourished. The tropical scent was the cherry on top and made me feel like I was on a tropical island. Plus, knowing that it’s reef-friendly makes me feel good about using it. Thanks Aloe Up for this amazing tanning oil! – Emily
2. Let me tell you, this tanning oil is a game-changer! As someone who loves spending time outdoors, finding a sunscreen that doesn’t feel greasy or clog my pores has been a struggle. But Aloe Up’s Light Tanning Oil with SPF 6 Sunscreen is a dream come true! The fast-drying formula makes it perfect for those on-the-go moments and the natural ingredients make my skin feel so soft. Plus, the fact that it’s good for both me and the environment just adds to its greatness. Thanks Aloe Up! – Ryan
3. Me and my friends recently tried out Aloe Up’s Light Tanning Oil with SPF 6 Sunscreen during our beach day and let me tell you, we were obsessed! Not only did it give us a gorgeous tan, but it also protected our skin from the sun while keeping it moisturized with pure aloe vera oil and other natural oils. And let’s not forget about the tropical scent that made us feel like we were in paradise all day long. A big thumbs up to Aloe Up for creating such an amazing product! – Sarah
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The Importance of Applying Sunscreen or Tanning Oil First
As someone who loves spending time in the sun, I have learned the hard way about the importance of using sunscreen or tanning oil before heading out to soak up some rays. While it may be tempting to skip this step and dive right into tanning, it is crucial to prioritize protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
First and foremost, sunscreen and tanning oil serve as a barrier between your skin and the sun. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause damage to your skin cells, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Applying sunscreen with a high SPF can help block these harmful rays and prevent long-term damage.
Moreover, using sunscreen or tanning oil first can also help you achieve a healthier tan. Many people believe that skipping sunscreen will result in a darker tan; however, this is not true. In fact, not using any protection can cause your skin to burn and peel, resulting in an uneven and unhealthy tan. By applying sunscreen or tanning oil first, you can gradually build a safer and more natural-looking tan without risking overexposure.
Additionally, using sunscreen or tanning oil first allows for better absorption into the
My Buying Guide on ‘Sunscreen Or Tanning Oil First’
As someone who loves to spend time outdoors and get a nice tan, I have always been confused about whether I should apply sunscreen or tanning oil first. It’s a common dilemma among beachgoers and sun lovers. After doing some research and experimenting, I have finally found the answer. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and provide some tips on whether you should apply sunscreen or tanning oil first.
Understanding the Difference between Sunscreen and Tanning Oil
Before we dive into the debate of sunscreen or tanning oil first, let’s understand the difference between these two products.
Sunscreen is a lotion, spray, or cream that contains active ingredients to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It forms a protective layer on your skin that reflects or scatters UV rays away from your body. Sunscreen is available in different SPFs (Sun Protection Factor) that determine how long you can stay in the sun without getting burnt.
On the other hand, tanning oil is a product specifically designed to help you achieve a dark tan quickly. It contains ingredients like oils, minerals, and vitamins that stimulate melanin production in your skin, giving you a darker tan.
Deciding Factors for Applying Sunscreen or Tanning Oil First
There are a few factors that can help you decide whether you should apply sunscreen or tanning oil first. These include:
- Skin Type: If you have fair skin that burns easily, it’s best to apply sunscreen first as it provides better protection against UV rays.
- Tan Goals: If your goal is to get a deep and dark tan, then applying tanning oil first can help speed up the process.
- Sun Exposure Time: If you plan on spending an extended period in the sun, then it’s best to apply sunscreen first as it provides longer protection.
Sunscreen Or Tanning Oil First: My Recommendation
After trying out both methods multiple times, I recommend applying sunscreen before tanning oil. Here’s why:
- Better Protection: Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays while tanning oil does not offer any protection.
- Balanced Tan: Applying sunscreen first creates an even base for tanning oil to work on. This results in a more balanced and natural-looking tan.
- Avoiding Sunburns: Some people think that applying tanning oil first will help them avoid getting sunburnt by blocking UV rays. However, this is not true as most tanning oils do not have enough SPF to protect your skin adequately.
Tips for Applying Sunscreen and Tanning Oil Together
If you want to get the best of both worlds – sun protection and a deep tan – here are some tips for applying sunscreen and tanning oil together:
- Mix Them Together: You can mix equal parts of sunscreen and tanning oil together before application for added convenience.
- Reapply Regularly: Make sure to reapply both products every 2-3 hours if you plan on staying in the sun for an extended period.
- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Be careful while applying these products near sensitive areas like eyes, lips, or nose as they can cause irritations.
In conclusion, whether you should apply sunscreen or tanning oil first depends on various factors like your skin type, tan goals, and sun exposure time. However, my recommendation would be to always apply sunscreen before using tanning oil for better protection against harmful UV rays. Don’t forget to reapply regularly and avoid sensitive areas while using these products together. Have fun under the sun with proper protection!
Author Profile
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Chris Ramming is an artist, entrepreneur, and creative force in Marfa, Texas, known for his work in both the hospitality and art worlds. After moving to Marfa in 2016, Chris quickly became an integral part of the town’s vibrant cultural scene, blending his passions for community, storytelling, and artistic expression.
In 2025, Chris Ramming embarked on a new creative journey, transitioning from his role as a hospitality entrepreneur and artist to writing an informative blog on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Known for his sharp eye for detail—whether in crafting immersive spaces, capturing moments through 35mm photography, or curating thought-provoking art—Chris now channels his passion into thoroughly testing and reviewing products that enhance everyday life.
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