If you want a bronzed glow while spending time in the sun, choose a tanning oil that includes SPF whenever possible. Tanning oils without sun protection increase your risk of sunburn and long-term UV damage. Dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum sunscreen even if your goal is to tan.
Best Outdoor Tanning Oils
1. Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil – Best Overall
- Lightweight, moisturizing formula.
- Enriched with coconut oil and cocoa butter.
- Leaves skin soft with a tropical scent.
- Best for people who tan easily.
2. Sun Bum Moisturizing Tanning Oil SPF 15 – Best with SPF
- Broad-spectrum SPF 15 protection.
- Contains aloe vera, green tea butter, and marula oil.
- Water-resistant and suitable for beach days.
- Vegan and reef-friendly formula.
3. Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 15 – Best Bronzing Formula
- Instant bronzer enhances your natural glow.
- Aloe vera and sunflower seed oil help moisturize skin.
- Non-greasy spray gel application.
- Good balance between tanning and sun protection.
4. Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Oil SPF 50 – Best Premium Pick
- High SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection.
- Hydrating oil with a luminous finish.
- Fast-absorbing and non-sticky.
- Ideal for those who prioritize sun protection.
5. Banana Boat Protective Tanning Dry Oil SPF 15 – Best Budget Option
- Dry-oil formula absorbs quickly.
- SPF 15 protection.
- Water-resistant for swimming and outdoor activities.
- Affordable and widely available.
6. Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel – Best for Deep Tans
- Rich gel texture for intensive tanning.
- Hydrates while promoting a darker tan.
- Best suited for experienced tanners.
- Pair with sunscreen if the formula does not include adequate SPF.
Quick Comparison
| Product | SPF | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil | None/Low (varies by version) | Overall value |
| Sun Bum Moisturizing Tanning Oil | 15 | Everyday outdoor tanning |
| Australian Gold Spray Gel Bronzer | 15 | Instant bronzed glow |
| Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Oil | 50 | Maximum sun protection |
| Banana Boat Protective Dry Oil | 15 | Budget-friendly |
| Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel | Varies | Deep, fast tan |
What to Look For
Choose a tanning oil with:
- Broad-spectrum SPF: SPF 15–30 is a good minimum for many people, while SPF 30–50 offers greater protection.
- Hydrating ingredients: Coconut oil, aloe vera, vitamin E, and argan oil help reduce dryness.
- Water resistance: Important for swimming or sweating.
- Non-greasy finish: Makes the oil more comfortable to wear outdoors.
Tips for Safer Tanning
- Apply tanning oil or sunscreen 15–30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply at least every 2 hours, and after swimming or heavy sweating.
- Avoid prolonged exposure during peak UV hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Wear a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade regularly.
Which One Should You Buy?
- Best overall: Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil
- Best with SPF: Sun Bum Moisturizing Tanning Oil SPF 15
- Best bronzing effect: Australian Gold Spray Gel with Instant Bronzer SPF 15
- Best premium: Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Oil SPF 50
- Best budget: Banana Boat Protective Tanning Dry Oil SPF 15
- Best for experienced tanners: Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel
If protecting your skin is your top priority, a tanning oil with SPF 30 or higher is a better choice than traditional tanning oils with little or no sun protection, since you can still develop a tan while reducing UV damage.