Tan Time Calculator
Pick your skin type and today's UV index to estimate how long you can tan before you'd start to burn — plus a recommended session length to get color safely.
IVery fair
IIFair
IIIMedium
IVOlive
VBrown
VIDeep
6High
25 min
Recommended tan session
33 min
Time until you'd burn
Wear SPF to extend these times. Flip halfway for an even tan.
Want this automatically, every day?
The SPF app does this live — it reads your location's real UV index, knows your skin type, and runs a timer that tells you when to flip, reapply, and stop. No math, no guessing.
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How this calculator works
Your time to burn depends mostly on two things: how sensitive your skin is (your skin type) and how strong the sun is right now (the UV index). Higher UV and fairer skin both mean a shorter window. This tool estimates that window, then suggests a tan session comfortably inside it so you build color without reaching your burn limit.
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These are estimates for general guidance, not medical advice. Sunscreen, sweat, water, reflection, and medications all change your real burn time. When in doubt, go shorter and reapply SPF.
Want the full breakdown of UV levels and tan times? Read the UV index tanning guide or learn the best time of day to tan.
