The beauty industry has evolved in unimaginable ways. Products, trends and even styles that would have been unheard of years back are now popular. The human race has, through innovations, achieved beauty and health benefits. For instance, people can no protect themselves from harmful UV rays through sunscreen. Similarly, people can lighten or even darken their bodies through the use of various products. In this article, we will discuss the difference between sunscreen and tanning lotion. 

What is Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a product that offers protection against skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays. While spending time in the sun has a wide array of benefits, it can cause skin damage. Sunscreen products have Sun Protection Factor (SPF) which work by barring the ultraviolet rays from the skin. This protects the skin from premature ageing, sagging, wrinkles and also reduces the risk of skin cancer. 

There are thousands of sunscreen brands available globally. And this can be confusing when purchasing one. To get the right sunscreen, be on the lookout for the amount of protection provided against UVB rays and UVA rays that cause wrinkles and skin ageing. UVA and UVB star rating are always denoted on the SPF bottle. Even with the use of sunscreen, you may tan. This is because small amounts of ultraviolet rays may get through the SPF to the skin. 

For better results, always use a sunscreen with a high UVA rating, preferably one which has over 30 rating. Although the difference in the filtration ability is little in sunscreen products, the higher the SPF, the more protection offered to the skin. Also, opt for sunscreens that protect against both UVB and UVA rays, ones that are water-resistant, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. 

What is Tanning Lotion?

These are products that help people achieve a tan without sun exposure. They are quick, cheap and offer a uniform tan, one that would not be achieved via the sun. Also, people who use tanning lotions avert the risk associated with prolonged sun exposure such as wrinkles, skin sagging and skin cancer. 

Tanning lotions are easy to use. And since they resemble moisturizers, they also provide hydration to the skin. As we mentioned, they are also a safer tanning option compared to sun exposure not to forget the even tan all over the body. Tanning lotions also offer benefits to the skin since they are packed with ingredients such as essential oils, antioxidants, vitamins and fruit extracts. 

Similarities between Sunscreen and Tanning lotion

• Both are popular skin products and beauty trends

Differences between Sunscreen and Tanning lotion

Definition

Sunscreen refers to a product that offers protection against skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays. On the other hand, tanning lotions are products that help people achieve a tan without sun exposure.

Use

Sunscreens are used to bar the ultraviolet rays from the skin. On the other hand, tanning lotions are used to achieve a tan effect without sun exposure. 

Benefits

Sunscreens protect the skin from premature ageing, sagging, wrinkles and also reduces the risk of skin cancer. On the other hand, tanning lotions help achieve a uniform tan while also providing hydration to the skin and supplying essential ingredients such as essential oils, antioxidants, vitamins and fruit extracts.

Sunscreen vs. Tanning Lotion: Comparison Table

Summary of Sunscreen vs. Tanning Lotion

Sunscreen is a product that offers protection against skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays. It protects the skin from premature ageing, sagging, wrinkles and also reduces the risk of skin cancer. On the other hand, tanning lotion is a product that helps people achieve a tan without sun exposure. It helps achieve a uniform tan while also providing hydration to the skin and supplying essential ingredients such as essential oils, antioxidants, vitamins and fruit extracts. 

Is tanning lotion the same as sunscreen?

No. Tanning lotion is not the same as sunscreen. 

Which is better sunscreen or sun lotion?

For maximum protection from the sun, sunscreen is better than sun lotion. 

Can you use tanning lotion and sunscreen?

It is not wise to mix tanning lotion and sunscreen since the two products have counterproductive effects. 

Does tanning lotion protect your skin?

Yes. Tanning lotion may protect your skin, moisturize and nourish your skin since it contains vital revitalizing skin ingredients. 

What SPF is best for tanning?

You should use sunscreen that has at least SPF 30. This will give a subtle tan and also protect your skin. 

How do you get tan fast?

If you want to get a tan faster, consider using a tanning lotion. If not available, use sunscreen with an SPF 30 and change positions when in the sun frequently. 

ncG1vJloZrCvp2OxqrLFnqmeppOar6bA1p6cp2aemsFwucismp6knJa7prvUrGadoZabsrOxzZycZpqVqcSmsc1mqq6mo5i%2FprHNZpinnF2prq%2B6yKeeZqSfqbawuo4%3D