SPF Oil vs Tanning Oil: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?
With so many skincare products out there, it can be hard to choose which formulas are right for you. One thing we see a lot is SPF oil vs. tanning oil. Oils are formats, not necessarily protection levels. Oils are thicker and heavier compared to lotions.1
When it comes to the health of your skin, SPF matters more than the format of your chosen product and how your skin feels. Protecting your skin from the sun can reduce sun-related damage. As such, it’s vital that you understand the differences between SPF oil and tanning oil.
What is tanning oil?
Tanning oil intensifies UV exposure to your skin to achieve the bronzed appearance favored by celebrities and influencers.
What is sun tan oil? How does it affect your skin? Tanning oil may or may not contain SPF, which means your skin may not be getting the level of sun protection it needs to maintain a youthful-looking appearance.
What does tanning oil do to your skin? It can leave your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Please keep this in mind when choosing your skincare products. Fortunately, beautiful-looking skin and SPF don’t have to be in opposition to each other.
What is SPF oil?
SPF oil, also known as sunscreen oil, blends broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher ingredients with moisturizing properties. You can achieve a radiant glow while protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
Sunscreen oil should have a minimum SPF 30 to protect your skin. When formulated correctly, SPF oils work just as well as lotions or serums, regardless of the format.
SPF oil vs tanning oil: key differences
The main difference between SPF oil and tanning oil comes from the purpose of both types of skincare products. SPF oil is designed to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Tanning oil is formulated to enhance your skin’s appearance by attracting UV rays to darken your outer layer. So, choosing between these two products depends on what outcome you want for your skin.
The role in long-term skin health is a huge difference between SPF oil and tanning oil. SPF oil can reduce damage from the sun. Tanning can speed up the signs of aging and could lead to skin cancer.2
What is SPF in tanning oil?
When you see SPF in tanning oil, it indicates a certain level of sun protection. However, traditional tanning oils with SPF typically have SPF levels between 4 and 15. Dermatologists recommend an SPF of 30 or higher because this level reflects 97% of the sun’s harmful UVB rays.3
What is SPF in tanning oil, exactly? Remember, SPF refers to sunburn protection rather than tanning speed. Tanning oils with minimal SPF still allow UV exposure from the sun and are not necessarily “safer” tanning. Reapplying a tanning oil with SPF and the amount you use matter.
Tanning oil with SPF vs sunscreen
SPF oils function as a sunscreen when used as directed on the product label. Sunscreen can come in many formats, including oils, lotions, mists and sprays, and even sticks, so choose the format that appeals to you. Skin protection depends on the SPF level and a broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) designation. Oils without SPF are not sunscreen.
How to choose between SPF oil and tanning oil
Selecting between sunscreen oil and tanning oil depends on your goal:
- If you want protection from the sun, find an oil with high enough SPF levels.
- Your preference for the right texture on your skin should always have a formula containing SPF 30 or higher.
- While oils are appealing for their luxurious feel, always choose one with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin.
- Consistent, daily application matters more than the product format. Find one that’s comfortable for you.
Common myths about tanning oils and SPF oils
Here are some common myths about tanning oils and SPF oils we’ve noticed:
- Oils automatically make you tan faster. This is only true if you use tanning oils with an SPF of less than 30.
- SPF oils don’t protect as well as lotions. The format doesn’t necessarily matter when choosing your skincare formula. The SPF is what matters.
- Tanning oil with SPF replaces sunscreen. Tanning oil with SPF typically has lower levels that don’t fully protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
- Oils are only for experiencing sun exposure. This is not true if you purchase an SPF oil with an SPF of 30 or higher. Make sure to read the label before making a purchase.
Frequently asked questions about SPF oil and tanning oil
Is tanning oil the same as sunscreen?
No, tanning oils are often designed to enhance tanning. Sunscreen, including SPF oils, is formulated to provide broad-spectrum sun protection. Only products labeled with SPF offer sun protection.
Can you use tanning oil instead of sunscreen?
Tanning oils without SPF do not replace sunscreen. If a product does not list Broad Spectrum SPF, it should not be relied on for sun protection.
Can SPF oil prevent tanning or just sunburn?
Products with SPF still allow some UV exposure, which is why consistent application and adequate SPF levels matter. SPF helps reduce the risk of sunburn but does not eliminate UV exposure entirely.
What SPF level should I look for in tanning oils?
Look for broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Why understanding the difference between SPF oil and tanning oil matters
Skincare and sun care decisions can impact your skin’s long-term health. SPF provides better protection for your skin than tanning does. Your chosen format (oil, lotion, serum, or spray) should support consistent daily use without compromising protection.
That’s why COOLA has developed feel-good SPF products you want to wear every day. Feel free to explore our products and ingredients to find a routine that works for you.
Sources:
- Ashe, Emma. How To Choose Between Body Oil And Lotion, According to a Professional. Southern Living. https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/beauty-makeup/body-oil-vs-lotion
- Skin Cancer Foundation. Tanning & Your Skin. https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/tanning/
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Sunscreen FAQs. https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen
