How to Use Sun Bum Tanning Oils and Lotions for a Safe, Sun-Kissed Glow

Quick Answer

To get a safe, sun-kissed glow with Sun Bum tanning oils and lotions, start with clean, exfoliated skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to areas prone to burning, then layer the tanning product evenly. Reapply every two hours and always follow up with after-sun care to keep your skin hydrated.

Tanning oils and lotions can help you achieve a beautiful, sun-kissed glow, but using them correctly is key to avoiding sunburn and premature aging. Sun Bum offers a range of tanning products designed to enhance your natural tan while keeping your skin nourished. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for applying tanning oils and lotions, so you can enjoy the sun safely.

Whether you're a sunbather or a beach sports enthusiast, understanding the difference between tanning oils and lotions, and how to apply them, will make your tanning experience more effective and safer. Let's dive into the steps and tips that will help you get that golden glow without the burn.

Tanning Oil vs. Lotion: Which Should You Choose?

Tanning oils and lotions serve the same purpose—to enhance your tan—but they differ in texture and how they interact with your skin. Tanning oils, like Sun Bum's Tanning Oils, are typically lighter and absorb faster, making them ideal for those who want a quick, deep tan. They often contain natural oils that moisturize the skin, but they may not offer much sun protection on their own.

Tanning lotions, on the other hand, are thicker and provide more hydration, which can be beneficial for dry skin. They often contain SPF, giving you some protection while you tan. Sun Bum's Tanning Lotions are formulated to moisturize and enhance color, but you should always check the SPF level and supplement with a separate sunscreen if needed.

• If you have dry skin, opt for a tanning lotion for extra moisture.
• For a deeper tan with minimal protection, choose a tanning oil and pair it with a high-SPF sunscreen on sensitive areas.

Step-by-Step Application for a Safe Glow

Before applying any tanning product, exfoliate your skin to remove dead cells and ensure an even tan. Use a gentle scrub and pay extra attention to rough areas like elbows and knees. After exfoliating, pat your skin dry—don't rub, as this can irritate freshly exfoliated skin.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your face, shoulders, and any other areas that burn easily. This is crucial because tanning oils and lotions often don't provide enough protection on their own. Then, apply your Sun Bum tanning oil or lotion evenly to the rest of your body, using long, sweeping motions. Don't forget the backs of your legs and arms.

• Always apply sunscreen first, then tanning product, to ensure you're protected.
• Wait 15 minutes before sun exposure to let the products absorb.

Maximizing Your Tan While Staying Safe

To achieve a sun-kissed glow without burning, limit your initial sun exposure to 15-20 minutes, then gradually increase. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Remember that tanning oils can make you more susceptible to burning, so be extra cautious.

After sun exposure, rinse off and apply a soothing after-sun lotion to hydrate and calm your skin. Sun Bum's After Sun Cool Down Lotion is a great choice—it contains aloe to cool and moisturize sun-exposed skin, helping to extend your tan and prevent peeling.

• Use a timer to track your sun exposure and avoid overdoing it.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Step-by-Step Tanning Routine

1. Exfoliate and prep: Gently exfoliate your skin in the shower to remove dead skin cells, then pat dry. This ensures an even, longer-lasting tan. Smooth skin is key to an even glow.
2. Apply sunscreen to sensitive areas: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen on your face, shoulders, and any areas that burn easily. Don't skip this step even if your tanning product has some SPF. Protection first prevents sunburn.
3. Apply tanning oil or lotion: Pour a small amount into your hands and rub evenly over your body. Use long strokes and avoid missing spots. For hard-to-reach areas, ask a friend or use a back applicator. Even application avoids patchy tan.
4. Time your sun exposure: Start with 15-20 minutes of direct sun, then move to shade or reapply sunscreen. Gradually increase exposure over several days to build a base tan. Slow and steady wins the race.
5. Reapply and after-care: Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming. After sun, rinse off and apply After Sun Cool Down Lotion to hydrate and soothe. Post-sun care extends your tan.

Sun Bum Products for Tanning

• After Sun Cool Down Lotion: After a day in the sun, soothe your skin with Sun Bum After Sun Cool Down Lotion. This gentle, moisturizing lotion is designed to help cool and calm sun-exposed skin, providing relief when you need it most. Using an after-sun lotion helps lock in moisture, reduce redness, and keep your tan looking even and longer-lasting.
• Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Spray: Our ultra sheer/dry touch continuous spray sunscreen formula delivers Broad Spectrum protection, while enriching your skin with Vitamin E. This high-SPF spray is perfect for reapplying over tanning oil without disturbing your tan, ensuring you stay protected without a greasy feel.

Getting a sun-kissed glow with Sun Bum tanning oils and lotions is all about preparation, protection, and after-care. By following these steps, you can enjoy the sun safely and achieve a beautiful, even tan. Remember, a tan is a sign of sun exposure, so always prioritize your skin's health.