Can You Wear Sunscreen Over Fake Tan? (Yes, and Here’s How!)

Fake tan is the ultimate glow-up hack. It gives you that bronzed, sun-kissed look without risking sunburn or skin damage. But here’s the big question we hear all the time: can you wear sunscreen over fake tan? The short answer is yes, and in fact, you absolutely should.

In this guide, we’ll clear up the myths, explain how sunscreen works with fake tan, share tips for applying SPF correctly, and recommend some sunscreens that work well with a bronzed glow.

Why Sunscreen Is Still Essential With Fake Tan

Here’s the truth: fake tan does not protect your skin from UV rays. Even if your skin looks beautifully bronzed, self-tanning products don’t contain SPF unless specifically labelled. That means UV rays can still cause sunburn, premature ageing, and long-term damage. Your glow is cosmetic, not protective.

This is why applying sunscreen every single day (even if it’s cloudy or you’re just running errands) is crucial for skin health. Think of it as the perfect partnership:

• Fake tan gives you the glow

• Sunscreen gives you the shield

Does Sunscreen Ruin Fake Tan?

One of the biggest concerns people have is that applying sunscreen might streak, fade, or “wash off” fake tan. The good news is that it doesn’t, if you apply it the right way.

Here’s what to know:

• Oil-free formulas are best: Heavy, oily sunscreens can sometimes break down tan faster.

• Application matters: Pat sunscreen on rather than rubbing aggressively. This avoids disturbing the tan while still giving full coverage.

• Water exposure: Swimming in the ocean or pool (with or without sunscreen) can naturally fade tan faster, so reapply sunscreen and top up with Gradual Tan to maintain your glow.

Recommended Sunscreens to Use With Fake Tan

Not all sunscreens are created equal, especially when you want to protect your glow. The following products are widely available in Australia and are generally well-reviewed for being lightweight, broad-spectrum, and less likely to disturb fake tan when applied correctly.

Mecca Cosmetica

• To Save Body SPF50+ Hydrating Sunscreen – A lightweight, non-greasy body sunscreen designed for daily wear. Hydrating but absorbs quickly, making it a good option over fake tan.

• To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen – A cult favourite facial sunscreen with a smooth texture that layers well under makeup or over skincare.

Mecca Max

• Screen Saver SPF30 Facial Sunscreen – A mattifying facial sunscreen with a light finish. Good for everyday wear without adding oiliness.

Ultra Violette

• Supreme Screen Hydrating Skinscreen SPF50+ – A hybrid moisturiser, primer and sunscreen in one. A favourite in the beauty community for its texture and finish.

• Extreme Screen Hydrating Body & Hand Skinscreen SPF50+ – Designed for the body, hydrating without leaving a sticky residue.

La Roche-Posay

• Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF50+ – A very lightweight, non-greasy fluid. Popular for both face and body and ideal under makeup.

Cancer Council

• Ultra Sunscreen SPF50+ – A classic, affordable Australian sunscreen. Reliable body protection, widely available at supermarkets and pharmacies.

• Ultra Sunscreen Pump SPF50+ – Same trusted formula as above but in an easy pump for families or frequent use.

Naked Sundays

• SPF50+ Hydrating Glow Mist – A reapplication-friendly mist that can be used over makeup or tan. Best as a top-up, but should not replace a full lotion for initial coverage.

Nivea

• Sun Protect & Moisture Lotion SPF50+ – A more affordable everyday body option. Slightly more moisturising, so apply gently to avoid disturbing tan.

Eco Tan

• Glory Veil Broad Spectrum SPF50+ – From an eco-focused brand, this lotion is designed with natural ingredients. A good option for those who prefer mineral or zinc-based sun protection.

Beauty of Joseon

• Relief Sun SPF50+ – A Korean sunscreen that has become popular globally for its extremely lightweight feel. Works well for the face, particularly if you’re layering over tan or makeup.

How to Apply Sunscreen Over Fake Tan Without Streaking

1. Wait until your tan is fully developed and rinsed off. For Naked Tan mousses, allow the development time, shower, and pat dry.

2. Apply sunscreen generously. Don’t skimp; your tan won’t last longer if you apply less sunscreen, but your sunburn will come quicker.

3. Pat, don’t rub. Use gentle patting or sweeping motions to spread sunscreen evenly.

4. Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

5. Top up your tan regularly. Keep your glow fresh with Naked Tan Gradual Tan or an on-the-go fix with Instant Tan.

Common Myths About Sunscreen and Fake Tan

• “I don’t need sunscreen because I’m already tanned.”
  → Fake tan colour has zero UV protection. You still burn underneath.

• “Sunscreen will stop my fake tan from working.”
  → Not true. Sunscreen doesn’t interfere with DHA (the tanning ingredient). As long as your tan is developed and rinsed, sunscreen is safe to apply.

• “Spray tans have SPF built in.”
  → Unless specifically stated on the product (and regulated as an SPF product), spray tans and self-tanners do not contain UV protection.

Keeping Your Glow Fresh All Summer

Sunscreen is only one part of making your tan last. To keep your Naked Tan glow looking flawless:

• Use Crème de la Crème daily to keep skin hydrated (dry skin = patchy fade)

• Wash with our Body Cleanser (formulated to be tan-friendly and won’t strip colour)

• Top up every few days with Gradual Tan for a seamless, longer-lasting glow

• For last-minute plans, grab Instant Tan for that “just-tanned” look in seconds

So, can you wear sunscreen over fake tan? Absolutely yes, and you should. Protecting your skin is always in style, and when done right, sunscreen won’t mess with your glow at all. Think of it as the ultimate duo: a safe sun strategy and a flawless Naked Tan.

Glow safely this summer, and remember: SPF during the day, Naked Tan for the glow.

Shop the full Naked Tan range to keep your tan fresh all summer long!