Does Sunscreen Ruin Fake Tan? In short, sunscreen can ruin a fake tan by causing it to turn orange or green, fade, or streak unevenly. Therefore, it is vital to allow the self-tanner to dry completely before applying sunscreen and use a self-tanner specifically formulated to be used with sunscreen.
In this guide:
The Dangers of Wearing Sunscreen and Fake Tan Together
As skincare experts, we understand the importance of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays while achieving a proper-looking tan. However, it is essential to note that wearing sunscreen and a fake tan together can have dangerous consequences.
This article will discuss the risks of wearing sunscreen and fake tan together and provide tips on safely achieving a beautiful, authentic tan.
Why You Shouldn’t Wear Sunscreen and Fake Tan Together
When sunscreen and fake tan come into contact, they can interact in a way that can cause the skin to turn a strange color or become patchy. This is because sunscreen contains chemicals, particularly those in chemical sunscreens such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, that can react with the DHA (dihydroxyacetone) in fake tan, causing the color to turn orange or green. This happens because the ingredients in chemical sunscreen can cause the top layer of the skin to exfoliate, which can remove the fake tan along with it.
Sunscreen can also cause the fake tan to fade or streak unevenly. Physical sunscreen, which contains ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, can sometimes leave a white cast on the skin, which may cause the fake tan to appear uneven. This is why it’s essential to use a physical sunscreen that is transparent and does not contain any ingredients that may cause the fake tan to fade faster.
To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to apply the self-tanner first, wait for it to dry and develop, and then apply sunscreen evenly. This will ensure that the fake tan has been set and developed on the skin, and applying sunscreen will not interfere with the development process.
What type of sunscreen is safe to use with a fake tan?
To maintain the longevity of your fake tan, it is advisable to utilize a physical sunscreen specifically formulated for the face and body. This type of sunscreen should be transparent in color and devoid of any ingredients that may cause the fake tan to fade rapidly.
Sunscreen with a high SPF, such as SPF 50, is also recommended to ensure the best protection for your skin.
Should I apply sunscreen before or after my fake tan?
Applying your self-tanner is recommended for optimal results, allowing it to dry thoroughly and develop before applying sunscreen. This ensures that the fake tan is correctly set on the skin without interruption, allowing you to gain a real-looking and long-lasting color.
Tips for Safely Achieving a Natural-Looking Tan
- Exfoliate your skin before applying self-tanner to remove dead skin cells and ensure an even application.
- Allow the self-tanner to dry completely before applying sunscreen.
- Use a self-tanner that is specifically formulated to be used with sunscreen.
- Apply sunscreen after the self-tanner has fully developed, at least 8 hours after application.
- Re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours, and make sure to use a water-resistant sunscreen if you plan to swim or sweat.
Final Thoughts
In summary, sunscreen does not necessarily have to ruin your fake tan, but it’s essential to be mindful of the type of sunscreen, ingredients used, and the timing and application method. By using a physical sunscreen that is transparent and high in SPF and following the recommended tips, you can maintain an authentic-looking and long-lasting fake tan.
