How to Use Low-SPF Suntanning Lotion

SPF refers to the sun protection factor in a tanning lotion or sunscreen. Although SPF levels range from 2 to 70, tanning lotions have an SPF of 6 or less. Using a tanning lotion with a low SPF is preferable to using non-SPF oils. The low levels of sunscreen in a tanning lotion can help protect your skin from burning while you slowly develop your tan.

Instructions

1. Know how long you can normally stay in the sun before burning. This helps you choose a sun tanning lotion with the appropriate SPF. With an SPF of 2, you can stay in the sun twice as long without getting burned.

2. Choose a sun tanning lotion with rich emollients to help your skin recover from the drying effects of tanning. Cocoa butter, shea butter and aloe are popular tanning lotion moisturizers.

3. Use your low SPF tanning lotion within a year of purchase. The protective ingredients in tanning lotion start to deteriorate after a year and the oils can begin to separate.

4. Exfoliate the skin with a washcloth or loofah sponge before applying low SPF sun tanning lotion. Sloughing off dead cells helps the active ingredients in the tanning lotion penetrate the skin.

5. Apply the low SPF tanning lotion liberally. Experts recommend you use enough lotion to fill a shot glass if you want adequate coverage across your body.

6. Reapply the tanning lotion after swimming or perspiring. Although many tanning lotion formulas are waterproof, they can come off when you towel dry.