Table of Contents
Do you want to get a quick tan and are looking for practical tips that really work? Our clear guide shows you how to achieve an even tan gently. Whether you're sunbathing or going about your daily life, the right timing is crucial.
Get a quick tan with the right sunscreen
When it comes to sun protection, many people make a common mistake: they either use too little cream or apply it too late. Correct application is essential to get a tan despite sunscreen while protecting your sensitive skin.

Applying sunscreen correctly for an even tan
The right amount of sunscreen is absolutely crucial for your protection. About four tablespoons are sufficient for the body, while a little less is enough for the face. Apply it shortly before going out so that UV rays are optimally repelled.
- Apply generously: Always use enough sunscreen for your entire body. For full sun protection factor, about 35 grams per application are often needed.
- Cream overlooked areas: Also think of your ears, neck, tops of your feet, and décolletage. These often-forgotten areas need just as much attention as the rest.
- Reapply regularly: After swimming or heavy sweating, you should definitely reapply. In general, reapplying every two hours is recommended.
- Choose broad-spectrum protection: Good protection against UVA and UVB rays effectively prevents annoying sunburn and promotes a flawless tan without streaks.
Many mistakenly believe that a high sun protection factor completely prevents tanning. But sunscreen does not exclude tanning, as some radiation always penetrates. This way, you can get a healthy tan while being optimally protected.
When and how long in the sun for a quick tan
The right timing determines whether you get a quick tan or just risk sunburn. A UV index of at least 3 is considered the perfect guide for quick tanning. At midday, the radiation is most intense, which is why sufficient protection is absolutely necessary here.
A simple formula simplifies planning your time in the sun: multiply your skin's natural protection time by the chosen sun protection factor. This way, you immediately know how long you can safely stay outside without overexposing your skin.
| Time of day | UV Index | Tanning effect | Sunburn risk |
| Early morning (before 10 AM) | Low (1–3) | Gentle and slow | Very low |
| Midday (11 AM–3 PM) | High (6–10) | Very fast and intense | Very high |
| Late afternoon (from 4 PM) | Medium (3–5) | Gentle and long-lasting | Rather low |
It is better to use the milder hours in the early morning or late afternoon. This creates a long-lasting tan, as the skin tans more evenly and relaxed. Gradually increase your time outdoors to gently accustom your skin to UV radiation.
Protection and tan at the beach, pool, or in the mountains
At the beach or pool, water and bright sand reflect light very strongly. This allows you to tan quickly despite sunscreen, but you also risk quick burns. Waterproof sun protection is therefore indispensable in such places.
In the mountains, too, the intensity of radiation increases significantly with altitude. Snow reflects almost all light, which requires particularly strong protection. Pay special attention to your face and hands when you are out in nature.
Magic Tan® Self-Tanning Drops
- ✓ Vegan, dermatologically tested, for sensitive skin
- ✓ Mix-it-in-your-cream principle, dose intensity yourself
- ✓ From Switzerland, approx. 0.30 CHF per application
What helps you tan faster – skin and nutrition
A beautiful tan is not only created by the power of the sun, but also significantly from within. With the right skincare and a targeted selection of nutrients, you can actually tan faster and effectively nourish your complexion.

Skincare and exfoliation for faster tanning
Prepare your skin well before enjoying your sunbath. A gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells – exactly what helps you tan faster.
Immediately afterwards, a moisturizing cream is essential for optimal protection against dehydration. Because well-nourished skin tans more evenly and faster, so you achieve a harmonious, beautiful result at the end of the day.
Nutrition and home remedies for a faster tan
Many ask themselves: What can I do to tan faster? The answer is often found in the diet plan, because beta-carotene stimulates melanin production and thus ensures a more natural and healthier tan.
- Eat carrots and sweet potatoes: These vegetables provide plenty of beta-carotene – an important building block for a radiant complexion.
- Drink tomato juice: Those who regularly consume vegetable juice weeks before summer reduce the risk of sunburn and promote tanning.
- Spinach and mangoes: Fresh foods like these strengthen your skin from within and make it more resilient.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon or walnuts can soothe skin irritations after sun exposure and help you get a healthy tan.
Drinking enough water is essential for firm skin and strong connective tissue. Good hydration protects cells and helps you tan faster.
Try to enjoy alcohol in moderation, as it dehydrates the body. Instead, use a nourishing after-sun lotion to soothe the skin and maintain your tan longer.
Get a quick tan without sun – self-tanner and cream
Unfortunately, the sun doesn't always shine as we wish. Luckily, there are fantastic alternatives for a flawless complexion. With the right products, you can get a natural and quick tan even without extensive sunbathing.
Applying self-tanning cream correctly for a natural tan
How do you get a quick tan when the weather just isn't cooperating? The best solution is a high-quality self-tanner. The active ingredient in it reacts gently with the skin and conjures up a beautiful, natural tan within a few hours.
- Prepare skin well: Gently cleanse and exfoliate your skin before application. A little moisturizer afterwards prevents unsightly streaks.
- Use practical tools: An application mitt protects your palms from discoloration and helps to distribute the product evenly.
- Treat joints sparingly: On knees and elbows, the skin often takes on more color. Therefore, apply the cream particularly thinly here.
So-called tanning drops allow for much more precise dosing than a classic cream. Ideally, let the product work overnight after application before getting dressed again. If you want a more intense color, you can repeat the application the next day.
Combine protection and tan – tips for your vacation
A clever care routine is ideal to guarantee a quick tan on vacation. With a light self-tanner, you immediately look refreshed and radiant. This way, you have to spend less time in the scorching sun overall.
During the day, you should always apply strong sun protection to protect your fresh complexion from damage and premature fading. To maintain the color sustainably, you can additionally seal it in the evening with a special skin oil and thus make it appear tanner faster.
How to get a quick tan and make it last longer
Sufficient moisture is key to a long-lasting and flawless tan. After sunbathing or applying self-tanner, a rich lotion provides the skin with valuable care. This way, the color lasts significantly longer.
During the day, you should always apply strong sun protection to protect your fresh complexion from damage and premature fading. To maintain the color sustainably, you can additionally seal it in the evening with a special skin oil and thus make it appear tanner faster.
Magic Tan® Self-Tanning Drops
- ✓ Vegan, dermatologically tested, for sensitive skin
- ✓ Mix-it-in-your-cream principle, dose intensity yourself
- ✓ From Switzerland, approx. 0.30 CHF per application
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you get a tan very quickly?
For skin that tans quickly, a smart three-fold strategy is recommended. Start with a mild self-tanner as preparation. When sunbathing, sufficient sun protection is crucial. Additionally, foods like carrots and sweet potatoes promote a quick and even tan from within.
How long do you have to lie in the sun to get a tan?
The duration you need to sunbathe to get a tan largely depends on your skin type, the time of day, and the sun protection factor used. With a UV index of at least 3, often 15 to 30 minutes per day are completely sufficient. For longer stays in the sun, simply multiply your skin's natural protection time by the SPF to calculate the safe time.
What stimulates tanning and how do I avoid sunburn?
To avoid a painful sunburn, you should always apply sunscreen generously – it's the best protection. A beautiful tan is most likely to develop if you gradually increase the duration of your sunbathing. Support the process by moisturizing your skin afterward. This way, you not only get a quick tan but also prevent skin irritation.