Can I put fake tan over the sunburn? In short, applying fake tan over sunburned skin is not recommended as it can cause further irritation and lead to an uneven application. It is necessary to allow the sunburned skin to fully heal before applying any self-tanner or spray tan.
It’s also fundamental to continue to wear sunscreen to protect your skin even if you have a fake tan. Consult with a professional or a dermatologist before applying a fake tan recommended.
In this guide:
Risks of applying fake tan over sunburned skin
Irritation and uneven application: It is imperative to note that applying a self-tanner on sunburned skin can exacerbate the redness and lead to an inconsistent and undesirable application. Before applying any self-tanning products, it is recommended to wait until the sunburn has fully healed.
Sunburned skin is damaged and sensitive, and applying fake tan over it can cause additional pain and discomfort. The damaged skin can also cause the fake tan to appear blotchy and uneven, resulting in an unsightly appearance.
Lack of protection from UV rays: Another critical risk to consider is that sunburned skin is more sensitive to UV rays, and fake tan does not provide any protection from the sun. While a fake tan can give the appearance of a tan, it does not protect the skin from UV rays, and it’s crucial to continue to wear sunscreen to protect your skin even if you have a fake tan.
Not protecting the sunburned skin can cause further damage to the skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin-related issues.

Preparing for a safe and even fake tan application
Allowing sunburned skin to heal: The first step in preparing for a safe and even fake tan application is allowing the sunburned skin to heal fully. This means waiting until the redness and inflammation have subsided before applying any self-tanner or spray tan.
This will prevent further inflammation and ensure that the fake tan will be applied to healthy skin, resulting in a more natural and even appearance.
Exfoliating and moisturizing the skin: Once the sunburned skin is fully healed, it’s essential to exfoliate the skin before applying the fake tan. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, and by removing these cells, the fake tan will be able to adhere better to the skin and produce a more even application.
It’s also pivotal to moisturize your skin, as dry skin can result in an unappealing and blotchy appearance. In addition, Moisturizing will help to prepare the skin for the fake tan and also help to prevent the skin from drying out.
Choosing a high-quality, streak-free formula: The last step in preparing for a safe and even fake tan application is choosing a high-quality formula.
Not all fake tans are created equal, and choosing a product with a good reputation for producing natural-looking and streak-free results is critical. In addition, look for self-tanners and spray tans specifically designed for sensitive skin or fragrance-free to reduce the chance of a rash.
In summary, preparing for a safe and even fake tan application requires allowing sunburned skin to heal fully, exfoliating and moisturizing the skin, and choosing a high-quality, streak-free formula.

Tips for applying fake tan after sunburn
Using a tanning mitt for even application: One vital tip for applying a fake tan after sunburn is to use a tanning mitt. A tanning mitt is a glove designed to evenly distribute the self-tanner or spray tan over the skin.
This will help to prevent any streaking or uneven application, which can be especially crucial when dealing with sensitive or sunburned skin. Using a mitt designed explicitly for self-tanning products is essential to ensure that the fake tan is evenly distributed.
It is paying extra attention to areas prone to streaking: Another vital tip for applying a fake tan after sunburn is to pay extra attention to areas prone to streaking.
These areas include the elbows, knees, ankles, and other areas that tend to become darker or patchy when applying fake tan. Paying extra attention to these areas ensures that the fake tan is applied evenly, resulting in a more natural and even appearance.
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Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it’s crucial to be cautious when applying self-tanner on sunburned skin. Utilizing a tanning mitt for even application and focusing on areas prone to streaking can prevent further irritation or damage to your sensitive skin. Following these guidelines can achieve a natural and beautiful fake tan without causing additional discomfort.