Let’s get one thing straight — Black girls do tan…and we look good doing it. For years, we were told to stay out of the sun, not get “too dark,” and avoid messing up our foundation shade. But the girls are outside now, glowing, glistening, and catching sunrays intentionally.

Whether you’re sunbathing, bronzing, or faking it with a little shimmer and lotion magic, we’ve got the ultimate guide to keeping your melanin rich, radiant, and protected. Here’s our best tanning tips and tricks every Black girl should know — because yes, we tan too…and we love it.

Yes, You Need Sunscreen

Because of our melanin, we certainly don’t burn easily. However, you still need SPF to protect your skin from UV damage and long-term aging. Look for formulas that don’t leave a white cast — like Black Girl Sunscreen (fave, due to its oily glow), Supergoop Unseen or Fenty Hydra Vizor.

Exfoliate Before You Tan

Dead skin can block your glow. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating glove in the shower to brush away dead skin before you tan (or sunbathe), so your skin can soak up those even, golden sunrays.

Moisturize Like It’s Your Job

Ashiness is the fastest way to dull your tan. Using a shea butter or oil-based moisturizer daily — like Osea’s body oil or even that classic cocoa butter stick we always keep handy works great to keep your skin hydrated and glowing.

Glow Enhancers Are Your Best Friend

Want to tan faster and look good doing it? A simple tanning oil with SPF (yes, both!) or a quality browning lotion is sure to do the trick. That said, be sure to patch test first if you have sensitive skin.

Fake It With Natural Radiance (Black-Owned Edition)

Want that bronzed, golden glow without the sun? Hanahana Beauty’s Shea Body Butter on bare melanated skin or Brown Sugar Babe’s shimmering body oil promise a radiant finish — minus the UV rays.

Know Your Shade Goals

Some Black girls want a richer glow, others want golden undertones to pop. Knowing your undertone (warm, cool, neutral) helps you pick the right tanning products and shimmer tones.

Be Mindful of Sun Time

A solid start to tanning only needs 15 to 30 minutes of direct sun on each side of your body…tops! Too much sun too fast can irritate your skin or make you peel. Build your tan over a few days for better results. Warning: Do not fall asleep!

Use a Mitt for Self-Tanners

If you’re using a tanner or bronzer, use a mitt or brush to avoid blotchy color and tanned palms. Yes, even Black girls can get weird patches without blending!

Hydrate From the Inside

Do not go out and bake in the sun while dehydrated! Water and hydration-rich foods like watermelon and cucumber will keep your skin plump and glowy. Staying hydrated also ensures your safety while under the sun.

Take a Dip in the Ocean or Pool

That post-swim glow is real. The sun reflects off the water and intensifies your tan — and the salt or chlorine can lightly exfoliate your skin too. Just make sure to moisturize after so your glow doesn’t get ashy!

Protect Your Tan With a Cool Bath

Opt for lukewarm or cooler showers. And skip harsh soaps — try gentle body cleansers so your tan can thrive through the summer days (without having to bake repeatedly).

Don’t Forget SPF on Your Lips

Chile…lips tan too, and faster than you might expect! SPF lip balms are the secret to tanning without looking like you’ve chain smoked ciggs. A sunny tan and a perfect pout is the way to go.

Tan Lines Are Optional, Sis

For an even glow, wear strapless tops, cheeky bikinis, or go bandeau-style to avoid funky tan lines. Or hey — embrace the lines! They’re proof you’ve been outside, living your best sun-kissed life.

Don’t Overdo It, Babe

We know the glow is addicting, but too much sun can leave you burnt, dry, or even peeling (yes, Black girls can burn too!). The goal is radiance. Start slow, pace your tan over a few days, and always protect your skin with SPF.