How to Carefully Apply Self Tanner Over Sunburned Skin

Applying Self Tanner Over Sunburned Skin

It's tempting to want to camouflage the redness of a sunburn with self tanner. But is it safe to apply self tanner over burnt skin? What precautions should you take? While using self tanner can hide sunburn color, caution is required to avoid irritation or potential skin damage.

Sunburn results from overexposure to UV rays, which damages the outer layer of skin cells. This causes redness, swelling, pain, and increased melanin production. A sunburn needs time to heal before applying cosmetic products. However, gentle self tanning methods may be used to carefully disguise sunburn discoloration.

Risks of Applying Self Tanner to Sunburned Skin

When skin is burnt, the protective barrier function has been disrupted. Chemical ingredients in self tanners may be readily absorbed into deeper layers when this barrier is compromised. Potential concerns include:

• Increased irritation, stinging, or burning
• Allergic reaction risk
• Inflammation and swelling
• Prolonged healing time
• Skin discoloration or dark spotting
• Dryness, itching, peeling

Self tanner ingredients like DHA react with proteins in the outermost skin layer to temporarily stain the skin brown. But on damaged sunburnt skin, the reaction may happen in deeper layers, causing longer-lasting pigment changes.

Precautions When Using Self Tanner Over Sunburn

While not recommended, lightly applying self tanner to reduce the look of sunburn can be done cautiously by:

• Letting sunburn fully heal first
• Choosing a gentle, non-irritating formula
• Doing a patch test on a small area first
• Applying a thin layer only to affected areas
• Using a tanning mitt to gently smooth on
• Waiting 48 hours and monitoring skin reaction
• Moisturizing well before and after
• Avoiding other exfoliating products

Talk to your dermatologist before trying self tanner over sunburn. Stop immediately if you experience any stinging, itching, or discomfort. It's best to cover up sunburn with clothing and diligently moisturize burnt skin during the healing process.

Choosing the Best Self Tanners for Sunburned Skin

When used cautiously, certain self tanning products are gentler options for sunburnt skin. Look for formulas that hydrate while providing subtle, blendable color. Key features to consider:

Hypoallergenic and Non-Comedogenic

Choose self tanners labeled non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic. This means they have been tested for clogging pores and causing acne breakouts.

Moisturizing Ingredients

Seeking moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid will hydrate as the product tans.

DHA Concentration

Lower percentages around 3-5% DHA will provide light bronzing. Higher concentrations may be too harsh on sensitive sunburnt skin.

Natural and Organic Extracts

Plant-derived extracts like green tea, cucumber, or red algae soothe and calm irritated skin.

Fragrance-Free Formula

Avoid irritating fragrances. Seek self tanners labeled unscented or fragrance-free.

Gradual Self Tanners

Gradual self tanners that build color slowly with repeated use tend to be gentler for sunburned skin.

Dermatologically Tested

Look for sunburn-friendly self tanners that have been tested and approved for use on sensitive skin.

How to Apply Self Tanner Gently Over Sunburn

Using the gentlest application method is key. Avoid rubbing in self tanner vigorously over burnt skin. Here are some tips for a smooth, streak-free sunburn cover up:

1. Exfoliate Gently Before Self Tanning

Once sunburn has fully healed, lightly buff away any peeling skin. Use a soft washcloth or exfoliating gloves rather than abrasive scrubs.

2. Apply Self Tanning Primer

Prime skin with a self tan eraser or barrier cream first to help self tanner apply evenly over reddened areas.

3. Use a Tanning Mitt

Glide self tanner over skin using a tanning mitt instead of your hands to lightly blend the product without irritating.

4. Blend Well Around Sunburn

Carefully smooth self tanner into surrounding skin to seamlessly blend the edges of the sunburn area.

5. Dust with Translucent Powder After

Brush on translucent setting powder to help absorb excess moisture and prevent tanner transferring onto clothes.

6. Apply Moisturizer Regularly

Hydrating the skin daily aids healing and keeps self tanned color looking uniform. Avoid petroleum-based moisturizers.

Types of Self Tanners to Try Over Healed Sunburns

These self tanning products are suitable options for blending sunburned skin once adequately healed:

Self Tanning Drops

Drops allow you to control the depth of color. Add a few drops to your usual moisturizer and smooth over sunburned areas.

Self Tanning Water

Mist a light coating of self tanning spray water only where needed to subtly disguise sunburn.

Self Tanning Serum

Serums provide buildable color with anti-aging skincare benefits. Apply a thin layer daily until desired tone is reached.

Self Tanning Lotion or Cream

Creams give rich hydration to nourish skin as they tan. Pick a luxe formula with soothing botanicals.

Self Tanning Wipes

Individually wrapped wipes let you gently swipe on color. Reapply to build a sunburn-masking glow.

Self Tanning Pads

Convenient single-use pads allow you to smooth on color where needed to camouflage reddened areas.

Self Tanning Sleep Mask

Apply an overnight self tanning balm before bed to wake up with subtly bronzed skin.

Boosting Results from Self Tanner Over Sunburn

Using proper techniques enhances your sunburn cover up results. Be sure to:

Exfoliate 2-3 Days Before and After

Gently slough off dead skin before and after self tanning for smooth, even application and longer lasting color.

Shave Before Self Tanning

Shaving the night before tanning will help the color absorb evenly into bare skin.

Moisturize Thoroughly

Keep healing skin hydrated with intensive creams to prevent dryness, peeling, and irregular fading.

Use a Primer

Apply self tan primer to sunburned areas first to help the tanner absorb evenly over redness.

Blend Edges

Carefully smooth and blend self tanner into surrounding skin so edges are not visible.

Apply Multiple Thin Layers

Build gradual color with 2-3 light coats rather than one thick application.

Caring for Skin Before and After Self Tanning

Proper skincare helps maximize results. Be sure to:

Cleanse and Tone Before Self Tanning

Remove dirt, oils and product buildup so self tanner glides smoothly onto clean skin.

Moisturize Daily

Hydration helps heal sunburned skin while keeping self tan color vibrant and lasting longer.

Use Glycolic Acid Periodically

Glycolic acid exfoliates away dead skin cells so self tanner fades evenly. Use 1-2 times per week.

Apply SPF 30+ Sunscreen

Protect skin from further sun damage by wearing broad spectrum sunscreen daily.

Cleanse Gently to Remove Color

When ready to remove self tanner, use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser and avoid scrubbing.

Care for Sunburnt Skin Properly

While using self tanner to cover up sunburn might provide temporary cosmetic benefit, it's most important to care for burnt skin correctly. Be sure to:

• Take pain medication as needed
• Apply aloe vera gel to soothe
• Drink extra fluids
• Keep skin moisturized
• Avoid additional sun exposure
• Stay cool to reduce inflammation
• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Don't pop blisters
• See a doctor for severe burns

Let your skin heal completely before attempting to apply self tanner. With the right precautions, self tanning can safely help reduce the visible signs of sunburn.

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.