How Spray Tans and Self-Tanners Can Affect Acne

How Spray Tans Can Affect Acne

Getting a sunless spray tan is a popular way to achieve a golden, bronzed glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. However, people with acne-prone skin may wonder if spray tanning could cause or worsen breakouts.

There are a few considerations regarding spray tans and acne. The ingredients, application methods, and preparation techniques used can all impact how your skin reacts.

Potential Causes of Breakouts From Spray Tans

Here are some of the ways a spray tan could lead to clogged pores, inflammation, and acne:

• Oil-based solutions: Some spray tan solutions contain oils, which can clog pores. Opt for an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula.
• Application mistakes: Improper application technique that allows solution to get into hair follicles can cause breakouts on the chest, back, and face.
• Failing to exfoliate: Dead skin cells that aren't sloughed off prior to tanning can mix with the DHA and obstruct pores.
• Using heavy moisturizers: Thick creams and ointments before spray tanning can set the stage for congestion and acne.

Tips to Help Prevent Breakouts From Spray Tanning

If you have acne-prone skin but still want to reap the confidence and cosmetic benefits of a sunless tan, the following tips can help you avoid mishaps:

1. Choose an oil-free spray tan solution formulated for acne treatment:

Look for key phrases like "non-comedogenic," "won't clog pores," or oil-free. Carefully analyze the ingredient list and select a solution made for sensitive or acneic skin types.

2. Exfoliate skin beforehand:

Use a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid to remove dead skin that could lead to clogged pores when mixed with DHA. But skip this step if you have sensitive skin or active breakouts.

3. Shave at least 24 hours prior to your spray tan session:

Freshly shaved skin tends to absorb more product, which can lead to breakouts. Give your pores a day to close up after shaving before your spray tan.

4. Wash skin thoroughly before the appointment:

Show up to your spray tan session with clean skin - but skip thick moisturizers beyond a basic hydrating serum so they don't interact with the solution.

5. Use absorptivebarrier cream around eyebrows, hair growth areas:

Apply petroleum jelly around your hairline, brows, and facial hair growth areas to limit solution absorption into pores and hair follicles.

6. Allow spray solution to dry thoroughly:

Stand still while the tech applies the mist, then wait until it dries completely. Moving around while wet could transfer product into pores and cause acne.

Caring for Skin After a Spray Tan

Your diligence shouldn't stop at the spray tanning appointment. Be sure to care for your skin properly at home between sessions too.

Post-Tan Skincare Tips

Heres how to keep your glow golden and your skin clear after a spray tan:

• Rinse with fresh water: Gently splash your skin a few hours after tanning to remove bronzer residues that could clog pores. Pat dry.
• Moisturize daily: Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to prevent dryness and peeling.
• Avoid wearing makeup for 24-48 hours: Cosmetics can remove your tan prematurely and clog pores.
• Exfoliate as needed: Use a gentle body scrub 2-4 days after tanning to deal with any flakiness or uneven fading.
• Shower with tepid water: Hot showers can dry out skin and fade color too quickly. Opt for lukewarm water instead.

With some preparation and attentive aftercare, you can rock a gorgeous spray tan without provoking acne breakouts.

What About Acne and Self-Tanning Lotions?

Self-tanners you apply at home come in convenient lotions, mousses, gels, wipes, and even powders. But are these DIY products suitable and safe if you have body or facial acne?

Generally, most experts agree properly formulated self-tanning lotions, mousses, and serums are unlikely worsen acne significantly.

However, as with spray solutions, problems could arise if you fail to prep skin correctly beforehand or select comedogenic products. Oils and thick, heavy formulas are most likely to clog pores and provoke breakouts.

Tips for Self-Tanning With Acne Prone Skin

Here are some pointers for self-tanning safely if you are acne-prone:

1. Spot test:

Apply a small amount of self-tanner to a discrete area and wait 24 hours. If no reaction occurs, proceed to full application.

2. Exfoliate first:

Slough off dead cells beforehand so they dont combine with DHA and clog pores.

3. Remove oil-based makeup/products:

Clear away traces of makeup, sunscreen, and skincare products so self-tanner absorbs evenly.

4. Use a tan-extending body lotion:

After self-tanning, maintain moisture with a daily body lotion containing DHA to prolong color.

By being cautious in product selection, preparation techniques, and aftercare, self-tanning at home can be safe even with breakout-prone skin.

Other Sunless Tanning Options

If you are concerned even about self-tanners and prefer to err on the side of caution, dont lose hope. Several other methods for achieving a golden glow without UV light exist too:

Sunless Tanning Alternatives

• Tanning drops:

These liquid concentrates contain DHA you add to your usual skincare or makeup items. They gradually impart color over several applications.

• Tanning mousses:

Some mousses use transparent immediate color rather than DHA. It washes off with routine bathing instead of requiring exfoliation.

• Tanning towels/cloths:

Pre-loaded towels infuse color when wiped on wet skin. Results appear in under an hour with no DHA required.

• Bronzing powders:

Pressed, loose, and cushion makeup products instantly warm up your complexion without needing to wait for color development.

Try a DHA-free alternative if you have very sensitive skin but still want to achieve a sunkissed glow quickly and safely.

Talk to Your Dermatologist About Sunless Tanning

Wondering how to get a gorgeous faux glow without aggravating your acne? Consult with your dermatologist or esthetician!

A skin expert can review your current skincare regimen and health history to determine if spray tans, self-tanning lotions, or DHA-free options are suitable.

They can also offer personalized guidance on how to prep your skin properly and select appropriate products to avoid clogged pores, breakouts, and other undesired side effects.

With professional input, you can enjoy sunless tanning results safely - even with acne-prone skin!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.