Can you still tan outside with sunless tanning lotion on?

The SPF rating on your sunscreen only pertains to the amount of protection from the UVB or burning rays. Tanning is actually the result of your body trying to protect its DNA within the nucleus of the skin cells. UVA rays are the rays that cause damage to the matrix of the skin, and the amount of UVA protection is not required as of now by the FDA on sunscreen packaging. The melanocytes, or cells responsible for producing melanin (tan) in your skin, are stimulated by any type of heat or trauma, so in answer to your question, it is possible to tan with a high SPF product. However, please be aware that DNA damage occurs with UV exposure, and can cause premature aging and skin cancer. Tanning booths offer a false sense of security, and can actually increase your chances of skin cancer. The latest figures are that if you tan even once in awhile in a tanning bed between your teens and early 20s, you increase your chances of melanoma 25%. Your best bet is to use the self-tanners or go get a spray-on tan!!