How to Get a Tan Safely, According to Experts

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Safe and effective methods for getting that sun-kissed look

Co-authored by Barbie Ritzman and Annabelle Reyes

Last Updated: July 7, 2026 Fact Checked

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• Tanning in the Sun
|
• Using Self-Tanner
|
• Getting a Spray Tan
|
• Risks of Sun Tanning
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• Are tanning beds safe?
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• Video
|
• Q&A
|
• Warnings

|Show more |Show less

With the weather warming up and the days getting longer, you might be hoping to get that golden, sunkissed look. Getting a good tan can be tricky business, though—there are UV rays to worry about, sunburns to avoid, and tan lines to consider. That’s where we come in! We’ve compiled this helpful guide on how to get the perfect tan, whether you’re hoping to tan in the sun, use a self tanner, or get a spray tan. We’ve also consulted board-certified dermatologists for their insights on the risks of tanning (and how to mitigate them), so keep reading!

Quick Ways to Get a Tan

1. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin.
2. Bring UV blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes.
3. Wear a swimsuit or minimal clothing to avoid getting tan lines.
4. Change your position frequently to ensure an even tan.
5. Tan for short bursts of time to avoid getting a sunburn.
6. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water while you tan.
7. Be aware that tanning increases your risk of skin cancer.

Steps

Section 1 of 5:

Tanning in the Sun

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1. 
   1
   Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to your face and body. Before heading out into the sun, it’s essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect you from harmful UVA and UVB rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using an SPF of 30 or higher, but the type of product is up to you—there are great sunscreen sprays, lotions, face moisturizers, and oils out there!

   • Warning: We know that most people enjoy sunbathing during the summer months, but it’s generally agreed in the medical community that there is no safe way to tan in the sun. As a result, medical professionals usually recommend using a self tanner or get a spray tan to achieve that sunkissed look, which we’ll go over later in this guide.
   • Board certified dermatologist Mohiba Tareen, MD, explains that any level of “tan” in the skin is a sign of damage to the skin cells on the body, which increases the risk of skin cancer.
   • If you do decide to tan out in the sun, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and do what you can to protect your skin. This means wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying every 2 hours (or after getting wet), and immediately getting out of the sun if you’re starting to get sunburned.
   • Reader Poll: We asked 1417 wikiHow readers if they like to tan, and 76% of them said that they do like to tan outside, but only while wearing sunscreen. [Take Poll] Make sure you don’t forget your sunscreen, either!

   Meet the wikiHow Experts

   Mohiba Tareen, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Tareen Dermatology in Roseville, Maplewood, and Faribault, Minnesota.

   Ellen Turner, MD, is a double board certified dermatologist and the founder of the Dermatology Office located in Dallas and Irving, Texas.

   R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH, is a board certified dermatologist with over 15 years of experience and the founder of Batra Dermatology in Los Angeles, California.

   Lydia Shedlofsky, DO, is a resident dermatologist at Affiliated Dermatology. She holds a Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

   Barbie Ritzman is a beauty and skincare specialist with over 10 years of experience in the beauty industry.
2. 
   2
   Choose your tanning time carefully. The sun’s rays tend to be strongest from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., so many people choose to sunbathe during this window of time if they’re trying to get tan quickly. This may be an effective method, but it’s important to remember that the risk for sun damage (and therefore skin cancer) is strongest during this window, as well. If you have very fair skin or a tendency to get sunburned, you may want to tan when the sun is weaker (after 3 p.m.).
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3. 
   3
   Dress purposefully so as to avoid tan lines. To avoid the dreaded tan lines, wear a swimsuit when you’re out tanning, and try to pick one with minimal extra straps/ties. For example, a bandeau-style bikini top is a great option for a more seamless-looking tan! If you’re somewhere private (like a hidden corner in your own backyard), consider skipping the swimsuit altogether, if you can. The only thing better than minimal tan lines is no tan lines at all!
4. 
   4
   Change your position frequently while tanning. Think "rotisserie chicken." To get that great, all-over browning, you have to keep rotating. Front, back, sides, and places where the sun doesn't normally shine—like underarms.

   • If you don't want to lie around all day, but still want that tan, another alternative is to go for a jog, or even a walk. This gives you some time out in the sun while also getting your blood pumping at the same time. Nice!
5. 
   5
   Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. The sun’s rays can be damaging to your eyes, too! When you head out to sunbathe, make sure to bring a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses, and consider bringing a wide-brimmed hat for some extra protection.
6. 
   6
   Tan for shorter bursts of time. The longer you stay out in the sun, the more you’re putting your skin in harm’s way. It’s true that any level of tan is ultimately a risk for skin cancer, but shorter tanning sessions can at least prevent you from getting sunburned (which would create a higher level of risk). “If someone's out for very small controlled amounts of the sun, we don't worry about that as much as when they're out to the point that they turn pink or that they're burned. Because that's when we know they're accruing the damage that leads to skin cancer,” explains board-certified dermatologist R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH.
7. 
   7
   Hydrate and stay cool. Being out in the sun can be pretty dehydrating, so make sure you drink plenty of water. If you’re near a pool, lake, or the ocean, consider jumping in the water to cool yourself down now and then, too. Just remember to reapply your sunscreen after getting out and drying off!
8. 
   8
   After you tan, moisturize. Use an after sun lotion to soothe and moisturize your skin after spending time tanning. It will help keep your skin feeling smooth and hydrated while also preventing it from becoming too flaky or dry.

   • Staying on top of moisturizing is an important healthy skin tip in general. Dr. Tareen says that using a daily moisturizer helps support damaged skin cell recovery (like the type that occurs after tanning).
   • “Over-the-counter brands I love are Vanicream, CeraVe, and Cetaphil which are full of ceramides and other key ingredients that help create a strong and healthy skin barrier,” Dr. Tareen explains.
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Section 2 of 5:

Using Self-Tanner

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1. 
   1
   Choose a self-tanning product to get a tan safely. Tanning in the sun involves skin cancer risk, but self-tanners are an amazing alternative. “You're talking to a dermatologist, so I'm going to tell you self tanner is definitely a better way to go…In general, it's always safer to use a self tanner than to go outside to tan,” says Dr. Batra. So, if you’re looking for the safest possible way to get that golden glow, head to the drugstore or beauty supply store to pick up a self-tanning product!

   • You can choose any brand or formula you’d like, but try to look a product that contains the ingredient dihydroxyacetone.
   • “The most common self tanners have an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone in them, and those are generally the more effective ones,” Dr. Batra explains.
2. 
   2
   Exfoliate beforehand to prep your skin for the self-tanner. “Exfoliating is a must to remove dead skin cells, which will give you a much smoother application,” explains beauty and skincare specialist Barbie Ritzman.”While you need to exfoliate the entire body. You want to focus on areas like your knees, ankles, elbows, and other places you tend to be dry. The last thing you want is to have a blotchy tan from a product adhering to some dry areas.”

   • Ritzman recommends exfoliating at least 8 hours ahead of time to allow your skin’s pH balance to neutralize, which is ideal for the color to develop.
   • Ritzman also suggests opting for an oil-free scrub, since oil can create a barrier between your skin and the self tanner.
3. 
   3
   Apply the self-tanner to clean skin. “Make sure your skin is free of makeup, lotions, deodorants, old tanner, or any other products that might create a barrier to tanning,” says Ritzman. From there, you’ll just need to follow the instructions included with the self-tanner you purchased! Many of them will include helpful application tools like gloves as well.
4. 
   4
   Once your tanner dries, put on loose clothes. Allow your self-tanner to dry for about 10 minutes, then put on some loose, dark-colored clothing. “Tight clothing, even socks and shoes, can rub the tan and cause streaking,” Ritzman explains.
5. 
   5
   Let the self-tanner develop for several hours. Ritzman says most tanners require anywhere from 6-8 hours to develop, but make sure to follow the specific instructions on the product you bought. “Make sure you remain in your house, as rain or sweat can cause self-tanner to drip and dry streaky,” says Ritzman.

   • Ritzman also recommends waiting to shower for at least 10 hours.
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Section 3 of 5:

Getting a Spray Tan

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1. 
   1
   Exfoliate 2-3 days before your spray tan. For the best results, exfoliate your skin a few days before your appointment. You can use whichever exfoliating product you like best, whether that be a scrub, peel, or soap bar. Exfoliating ensures a flawless, even application, and it even helps your tan last longer!

   • Double board-certified dermatologist Ellen Turner, MD, says a spray tan is a great alternative to tanning in the sun if you want to get some color in your skin in a safe way.
2. 
   2
   Shave or wax 1 day before your appointment. Shaving or waxing can be irritating to your skin, so it’s a good idea to do it at least a day in advance to allow your skin time to recover before the spray tan. This also prevents the tan from pooling in your hair follicles, which can create the appearance of “strawberry legs.”
3. 
   3
   Show up to your appointment with totally clean skin. On the day of your tan, avoid wearing any perfume, deodorant, lotion, or body creams. These products create a barrier between your skin and the spray, leading to patchy or spotty application.
4. 
   4
   Follow all the guidelines at your spray tan appointment. “To achieve the best results when using a spray tanning booth, it is crucial to follow all guidelines provided. For an even spray tan all over your body, it's important to carefully follow the instructions for your specific booth or tanning method, including proper body positioning and movements,” explains Ritzman.

   • In general, Ritzman recommends standing with your feet slightly apart and your arms slightly away from your body. “This stance allows for an even application of the tanning solution and ensures that all areas of your body are covered,” she says.
5. 
   5
   After your appointment, wear loose-fitting clothes. “After getting a spray tan, wear loose-fitting, dark-colored clothing,” says Ritzman. “Loose-fitting clothes prevent friction and rubbing against the skin, which can cause the tan to streak or rub off. Dark-colored clothing helps to minimize the visibility of any residual tanning solution that may transfer onto the fabric.”

   • “It's also advisable to avoid wearing tight bras, socks, or shoes immediately after the spray tan to prevent marks or unevenness,” Ritzman adds.
6. 
   6
   Wait 8-12 hours to shower after your spray tan. “Typically, you should wait around 8-12 hours before showering after getting a spray tan. This allows the tanning solution to fully develop and adhere to your skin, resulting in a longer-lasting and more even tan,” explains Ritzman. However, Ritzman says it’s crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by your spray tan technician, as the waiting time may vary depending on the tanning solution that was used.

   • “Additionally, avoid any activities that may cause excessive sweating or exposure to water during the waiting period, as this can potentially affect the development of the tan,” Ritzman says.
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Section 4 of 5:

Why is tanning in the sun dangerous?

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1. 
   Tanning in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer. “When the skin is ‘tan,’ this is a sign of sun damage or damage to the skin cells on the body,” says Dr. Tareen. “When the skin is exposed to UV radiation there is an increase in the production of melanin in an attempt to protect the skin from further sun damage.” In other words, the tan itself is a sign that the skin cells have been damaged, which means there really is no “safe” level of tan you can get naturally in the sun.

   • Over time, this damage can accumulate and increase risk even further, and it can also lead to signs of skin aging, like premature wrinkling and dark spots. As a result, most medical professionals caution against tanning in the sun at all.
   • “Tanning should be avoided altogether, as this drastically increases the chances of developing skin cancers. Daily sunscreen and other protective barriers should be incorporated into daily living to avoid excessive ultraviolet exposure from the sun to prevent the damaging effects,” says dermatologist Lydia Shedlofsky, DO.
   • Dr. Tareen adds that it’s helpful to utilize sun-protective (UPF) clothing to cover sun-exposed areas of the body and help reduce sun exposure.

Section 5 of 5:

Are tanning beds safe?

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1. No, tanning beds are not safe. Tanning beds emit UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and are strongly linked to melanoma. Beyond this, tanning beds emit 12 times more of these types of rays than natural sunlight, which means using a tanning bed is potentially even riskier than sunbathing. To protect your skin and avoid potentially developing skin cancer, it’s safest to steer clear of tanning beds altogether.
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• Question

  Does coconut oil help you tan faster?

  

  Community Answer

  Yes, it does help you tan faster. It is an oil which will amplify the sun's effects. Don't overdo the tanning though, as you can easily get sunburn.

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  Thank you for your feedback.
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• Question

  How long should I spend on each side?

  

  Community Answer

  About 15 to 30 minutes on each side depending on how fair your skin is and how easily you burn.

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  If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow

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• Question

  How long should I stay outside if I burn easily?

  

  Community Answer

  Limit your sun exposure to only 15 or 30 minutes before going into the shade; you can always return to the sun later once you skin has had some time to recover. Remember to wear a lot of sunscreen before going out into the sun, and always use moisturizer afterwards.

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  If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow

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Warnings

• Sun exposure increases your risk of skin cancer, and there’s no “safe” level of tan you can get from sunbathing. If you want to get a tan safely, the best methods are to use a self tanner or get a spray tan.
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