How to use self tan with sunscreen (2025)

Can I put fake tan over sunscreen? Do you put sunscreen or tanning lotion on first?

Don’t risk your skin to sun damage! Protect your glow as our experts reveal the correct way to protect your skin as you self tan skin.

The guide at-a-glance

• Sunscreen should always be applied as part of your self tan routine
• If applying self tan overnight, apply SPF the following day
• Our favourite self tan with in-built SPF is Green People Glow & Protect SPF30

Why apply sunscreen when you are self tanning?

While self tans will give you a sun-kissed glow, most won’t offer any form of sun protection, meaning that, if you’re heading outside, sunscreen should always be the last step of your routine.

And this golden rule is especially important if you exfoliate your skin before applying your self tan.

Why? When you smooth your skin with a scrub or exfoliant, you remove the top layer of cells, bringing younger cells to the surface.

These fresh cells are particularly vulnerable to sun damage, meaning sunscreen is particularly important.

How to introduce SPF into your self tan routine

If you prefer to tan at night, then make sure you use sunscreen to protect your skin the next day.

If you prefer to tan in the morning, we have the perfect 3-in-1 solution to streamline your self tan routine!

You can protect your skin while tanning by using our revolutionary self tan with SPF built in. Read on to discover more about this perfect way to protect your skin as you build your glow.

Discover self tan with sunscreen

Seamlessly teaming sunless tanning agents with plant antioxidants and protective sun filters, Glow & Protect SPF30 is our revolutionary self tan with built-in SPF.

The intelligent way to tan, it took us years to crack this intelligent formula, synergising UV filters, DHA, Erythrulose and antioxidants to ensure a balanced and skin-friendly application.

The result? A multi-functional formulation that provides sun protection, hydration and a natural tan!

Formulated with active tanning agents like DHA and Erythrulose for a streak-free, gradual tan, it also contains advanced UV filters that give effective UVA and UVB defence.

And there’s no need for a separate moisturiser either! We’ve added a burst of skin-hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera and plenty of nourishing plant oils, so you never need to worry about your skin feeling dry after self tanning. Perfect for achieving a healthy glow while shielding your skin from sun damage.

Key actives

• Erythrulose and Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)give a 4-5 day tan
• Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoateprovides powerful UVA protection
• Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazoneeffectively shields against burning UVB rays
• Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Vera soothe and hydrate
• Green Tea and Edelweissprovide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E) protects the skin from oxidative damage.
• Olive Fruit Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil: Nourishing, soften and protect the skin barrier

The correct way to apply SPF after self tan

Self tan without SPF - how to apply

Step 1: Smooth

Wash and exfoliate your skin, using a mitt or an exfoliating body wash to encourage a smooth and even application.

Step 2: Tan

Apply your tan lotion and wait for your tan to dry before dressing or applying any further skin care.

Step 3: Protect

Shield your skin against sun damage by applying your chosen SPF at least 20 minutes before you go outside. Maintain protection by frequently reapplying, especially after swimming, sweating, or towelling

Self tan with SPF - how to apply

Step 1: Smooth

Shower and exfoliate to prep your skin for a smooth and even tan.

Step 2: Tan and Protect

Tan and go, knowing that the built-in SPF30 will automatically shield against UVA and UVB.

Step 3: Reapply

Reapply to build you glow and maintain your protection.

In summary

Everyone needs to protect their skin from sun damage using SPF.

Glow & Protect SPF30 is a 3-in-1 tanning product with antioxidant SPF built in and offers a simplified way to protect your skin as your self tan develops

Looking for a self tan with SPF? Discover Glow & Protect SPF30 now. If you would like more information, please contact our friendly UK customer care team on01403 740350 or contact us at @GreenPeopleUK.

If you wish to republish this content, please credit Green People as the original creator with a link to "How to use self tan with sunscreen." Please do not use an affiliate link.

*20 minutes after DHA application, the level of UV-induced free radicals in the skin is three times higher than in the untreated skin. After two hours, the level is still twice as high.