Lemar Systems Ltd makes Tantastic. This is a comparison of published features, not an independent hands-on test or a ranking of health outcomes. Product listings were checked on 22 October 2026; features and offers can change.
A shortlist by use case
| Your priority | Option to investigate | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Guided session phases and a private timeline | Tantastic | Timer flow, optional photos and purchase terms |
| A routine with other Apple device options | Beam | Device-specific features and subscription access |
| Skin scanning and progress tracking | Glowy | Scanning workflow, privacy label and trial terms |
| Only a UV forecast | Apple Weather or SunSmart Global UV | Whether a dedicated tanning tracker is necessary |
Tantastic: consider it for a structured iPhone routine
Tantastic brings an hourly forecast, guided front/back/shade phases and a session history into one app. Its optional glow photos stay on-device, and you do not need a Tantastic account.
Consider this approach if you want to follow a visible sequence and return to a record afterwards. Check the current App Store purchase screen for access and renewal terms. Being free to download does not mean every feature is free.
Beam: investigate its device range
Beam advertises a UV-based routine and lists several Apple devices. Check its current listing if support beyond iPhone matters to you.
Ask whether its particular routine suits your needs before paying. Read our Beam comparison for questions to consider alongside Tantastic.
Glowy: investigate its scanning approach
Glowy places scanning and progress tracking in its product description. Explore its listing if that is the type of interaction you want.
Look at privacy information and the functions included after a trial. Our Glowy comparison focuses on timers, photos and the decision between workflows.
A dedicated tanning app may be more than you need
If all you want is a forecast, begin with our Apple Weather guide. If protection planning is your goal, investigate SunSmart Global UV. These alternatives can be a better fit for someone who does not want a session tracker.
Our separate best UV index apps shortlist starts with forecast needs rather than tanning routines.
How to make the final choice
Pick one must-have feature, check the current device requirements, and compare the price you will pay at renewal. Read the privacy policy before adding photos. Do not choose an app on a promise of guaranteed results or safe exposure.
This is a feature-based shortlist. We have not tested these apps against one another for forecast accuracy, skin analysis or tanning outcomes, and we do not assign scores for those claims.
Sources and further reading
- Tantastic on the App Store
- Beam on the App Store
- Glowy on the App Store
- Apple: check the weather on iPhone
- WHO: SunSmart Global UV app
Feature descriptions use the linked product information and this site’s Tantastic overview. Check the current listing and purchase screen before subscribing. Health information is general guidance, not individual medical advice.
Your forecast, with a plan
Meet Tantastic Sunglow
Hourly UV, guided timers and optional private progress photos on your iPhone.
View Tantastic on the App Store