An Overview on Protecting Nails from Spray Tan Damage
A bronzed glow looks healthy and vibrant, but frequent spray tanning can damage nails over time. Thankfully, there are steps you can take before, during, and after your spray tan appointment to shield your nails.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to reap the confidence-boosting benefits of spray tans while minimizing the risks to your nail health and appearance.
How Spray Tans Can Damage Nails
The active ingredient DHA in spray tanning solution reacts with dead skin cells to produce color. But DHA isnt picky it also binds to live skin and nails.
Over time, the following can occur:
- Nail discoloration and staining
- Nail plate thinning and peeling
- Increased risk of fungal infections
- Brittleness and cracking
- Slower nail growth
Additionally, acrylics or gel polish may lift more easily from the nail bed after repeated spray tans.
Take steps before, during, and after spray tanning to minimize exposure and keep your nails healthy.
Prep Your Nails Before Spray Tanning
Heres how to prep nails to avoid spray tan damage:Remove Any Nail Polish
Take off all nail polish, gel, acrylics, or dip powder. These create a layer for tanning solution to stick to and absorb into the nails.
Clean Thoroughly
Scrub nails with soap, water, and a stiff brush to remove all oil, lotion, and debris so the spray tan doesnt cling.
Push Back Cuticles
Gently push back and trim any overgrown cuticles. Tanning solution pools in the cuticle area, so minimize this space.
Hydrate Nail Bed and Cuticles
Apply cuticle oil or petroleum jelly lightly around the nails. This creates a barrier while allowing nails to stay hydrated.
Apply a Protective Base Coat
Paint nails with a clear base coat to shield from tanning solution absorption. Focus on the undersides and free edges.
Safeguard Nails During the Spray Tan Session
Use these tips while getting your spray tan done:
Wear Gloves
Have the technician provide disposable gloves and wear them during the session. Change to fresh gloves halfway through.
Hold Your Fingers Apart
Spread fingers open wide and keep space between them so solution doesnt pool around the nail beds.
Apply Barrier Cream
Request barrier cream to rub lightly around the nail beds before tanning. Never put directly on nails.
Shield Cuticles with Petroleum Jelly
Have the technician apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the nail cuticles using a disposable applicator.
Post-Spray Tan Care for Healthy Nails
Keep up the protection after your spray tanning session too:
Rinse Thoroughly
Use lukewarm water to rinse nails thoroughly without scrubbing to remove excess tanning solution.
Apply a Hydrating Oil
Massage a nail and cuticle oil into the nail beds to counteract drying effects.
Leave Base Coat On
Dont remove the base coat for 24-48 hours so it continues protecting nails as the spray tan develops.
Wear Gloves for Post-Tan Showers
Continue wearing gloves in the shower for the first few days to avoid water exposure while tan settles.
Moisturize Daily
Keep cuticles and nails hydrated with oil or petroleum jelly for a few days after spray tanning.
Choosing a Nail Polish to Wear with Spray Tans
If you dont want bare nails, select the right nail polish to complement spray tanned skin:
Pick Gel Polish or Shellac
Gel manicures or Shellac last longer without chipping or fading on spray tanned hands.
Opt for Darker Polish Colors
Darker polish shades like deep reds, burgundies, or vampy colors look beautiful with tanned skin.
Try Nude Shades
Nude, beige, or pink-beige polish mimics the color of tanned nails but protects them.
Avoid Light Colors
Pastels, corals, and creamy off-whites dont pair well with spray tans. They can make the tan look dirty or uneven.
Get French Tips
French manicures with tanned base and white tips complement spray tan results while protecting nails.
Talk to your manicurist about nail polish options if you dont want bare nails when spray tanning.
Caring for Skin Around Nails Before and After Spray Tans
The skin surrounding your nails also needs TLC to prevent spray tanning issues like:
- Orange staining around the nail beds
- Over-tanning near cuticles
- Drying, peeling, flaking skin
Use these tips for the skin near nails:
Exfoliate Gently
Use a damp washcloth, loofah, or soft brush 2-3 days pre-tan to remove dead skin without irritation.
Moisturize Well
Hydrate skin with cream focusing on dry areas around nail beds and cuticles before tanning.
Dont Push Cuticles
Never cut, tear or gouge skin around cuticles. Trim excess skin only.
Apply Protective Balm
Use petroleum jelly or thick moisturizer lightly around the nail edges before spray tanning.
Avoid Exposure Post-Tan
Shield skin near nails from water, abrasion, and chemicals in the days after spray tanning.
A little TLC for the skin bordering nails helps you avoid an uneven, unnatural look.
Maintaining Healthy Nails Between Spray Tans
Extend the time between spray tans when possible to give nails a reparative break. In the interim:
Take a Nail Supplement
Consider a nail supplement with keratin, biotin, collagen, and vitamin E to strengthen nails from within.
Use a Strengthening Polish
Opt for a strengthened clear polish in between spray tans to nourish nails.
Incorporate Nail Treatments
Get periodic gel manicures with nail repair steps like protein treatments built in.
Remove Nail Polish Properly
Always use acetone-free polish remover and avoid excessive soaking or scrubbing.
Let Nails Breathe
Give nails a break from polish for a few days here and there for moisture balance.
With restorative self-care between bookings, you can have strong, healthy nails despite spray tanning.
Signs Your Nails Are Suffering Spray Tan Damage
Watch for these signs of spray tanning consequences on your nails and cut back or adjust method if you notice:
Discoloration and Staining
Yellowing, darkening, or orange tinting under the nail tips or near cuticles.
Thinning and Peeling
Nails that crack, split, peel, or break more easily may indicate damage.
Brittleness
Rigidity, dryness, and increased softness or dents in nails could mean the protein is compromised.
Fungal Infections
Discolored streaks in nail plate, crumbling edges, or distorted thickening can signal fungus.
Slower Growth
If nails take longer than normal to grow out, spray tans may impede healthy growth.
Dont ignore these signs. Talk to your doctor about solutions to restore nail health.
When to Avoid Spray Tanning for Nail Health
Refrain from spray tanning temporarily in these nail health situations:
Damaged Nails
Allow time for splits, cracks, or brittle nails to fully heal before further spray tans.
Infections
Wait until fungal or bacterial nail infections have fully resolved before spray tanning again.
Recent Manicure
Hold off if you just had a gel manicure, tips added, or other salon nail services done.
Skin Injury
Avoid spray tans if you have open wounds, irritation, or rashes around the nail area.
Pregnancy
Check with your doctor before spray tanning while pregnant as absorption effects are unknown.
Be strategic about timing spray tans around periods of known nail vulnerability.
Other Self-Tanning Options Besides Spray Tans
If you notice ongoing nail issues from spray tanning, try these safer self-tanning alternatives:
Self-Tanning Lotions and Gels
Apply self-tanner yourself instead of getting a spray tan done. Just wash hands thoroughly after!
Tanning Towelettes
Wipes allow targeted application without nail contact during self-tanning.
Tanning Mousses
Mousses used with a tanning mitt provide an all-over glow without nail exposure.
Tanning Drops
Add a few drops of self-tanner to your regular moisturizer for gradual, subtle color.
Using DIY self-tanning products can allow you to continue safely bronzing your skin while protecting nail health.
Achieving a Sun-Kissed Glow Without Nail Damage
Dont sacrifice your nail health and beauty for the confidence boost of perfect tan lines. With some smart precautions before, during, and after your spray tanning sessions, you can protect your nails.
Prep nails thoroughly, apply barriers, maintain good nail care between bookings, and watch for signs of damage. If you do notice issues, explore lower-risk self-tanning options instead.
With the right strategies, you can rock a gorgeous spray tan with strong, healthy nails proudly on display.
FAQs
Should I get a manicure before spray tanning?
No, a manicure right before spray tanning isn't recommended. The polish or acrylics create a layer for the tanning solution to soak into. Go with clean, bare nails.
Can I just wear gloves during my spray tan?
Wearing gloves helps but isn't enough. You'll still likely get solution dripping onto the nails. Take additional precautions like applying a barrier cream too.
How soon after a spray tan can I get a manicure?
Wait at least 24-48 hours before getting a manicure or applying polish. This allows the spray tan to fully develop before putting a coating on the nails.
Should nails be dry or moisturized before spray tanning?
Nails should be clean and dry before a spray tan, as moisturizers allow the solution to absorb more. But apply a thin layer of protective products like cuticle oil.
Can spray tans damage gel or acrylic nails?
Yes, over time spray tans can cause lifting, cracking, or discoloration of gel and acrylic nails. Take steps to protect enhancements too.
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.
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