Choosing the right sunscreen for your spray tan is crucial to keeping your skin protected while maintaining the beauty of your tan. Not all sunscreens are suitable, as some can cause your tan to fade unevenly or even dry your spray tan out. It’s important to find a sunscreen that offers both UVA and UVB protection without compromising the longevity of your tan.
Understanding which products can dry your spray tan or cause your spray tan out making it fade is the first step in safeguarding your glow. This guide will help you select sunscreens that are both effective and spray tan-friendly, ensuring your skin stays protected and your tan remains flawless.
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Why is sunscreen important for spray tans?
When you get a spray tan, protecting your skin from UV rays becomes doubly important. Not only do you need to shield your skin from potential damage, but you also want to prevent your tan from fading prematurely. The right sunscreen acts as a barrier between your skin and the sun’s harmful rays, keeping your tan intact for longer.
Sunscreens are created with various formulations, but when you have a spray tan, it’s essential to choose one that offers broad spectrum protection. This means it guards against both UVA and UVB rays, which are responsible for skin damage and accelerated signs of aging.
Activities like swimming or sweating can also affect the longevity of your spray tan. Water and perspiration can lead to uneven fading if your skin is not properly protected. Using a water-resistant sunscreen can help protect your skin and spray tan during these activities, keeping your tan even and extending its lifespan.
Ultimately, the goal is to protect your skin and your spray tan from the sun’s harmful rays. Choosing a sunscreen that complements your spray tan can help you achieve this balance, ensuring your skin stays healthy and your tan looks fresh for as long as possible.
What to look for in a sunscreen for spray tans?
When you have a spray tan, not just any sunscreen will do. You need something that will protect your skin without compromising your tan. Look for sunscreens that offer a high SPF level and broad-spectrum protection, as these will shield you from both UVA and UVB rays effectively.
Beyond SPF and broad-spectrum capabilities, the formulation of the sunscreen is also important. Sunscreens created specifically for use with spray tans tend to be more gentle, preventing the tan from fading prematurely. Look for products that are water-resistant, especially if you plan on swimming or sweating. This feature helps maintain your tan’s appearance even in the face of moisture.
It’s also crucial to consider the ingredients in sunscreen. Some chemicals can dry out your skin or cause your spray tan to fade unevenly. Opt for sunscreens that are free from harsh chemicals and contain nourishing ingredients to keep your skin hydrated and your tan flawless.
In summary, the perfect sunscreen for spray tans should offer high SPF and broad-spectrum protection, be water-resistant, and have a tan-friendly formulation. By choosing the right product, you can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays while preserving the beauty and longevity of your spray tan.
Top recommended sunscreens for maintaining your spray tan
Credit: Sun Bum
If you’re seeking a sunscreen that supports both your skin health and environmental responsibility, Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 is your ideal match. It offers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection, shielding you from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Packed with vitamin E, it doesn’t just protect your skin; it also fights free radicals to prevent premature aging without compromising your spray tan. You’ll love knowing it’s vegan and cruelty-free. Plus, it’s free from gluten, parabens, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and oils, ensuring a clean formula. Whether you’re at the beach or just out for a day, this sunscreen keeps your skin and conscience clear.
Credit: COOLA
For those seeking a sunscreen that complements their spray tan, COOLA Classic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 stands out with its Plant Protection® Complex and lightweight formula. It’s packed with natural oils like red raspberry seed and buriti, plus meadowfoam seed oil and prickly pear extract. These ingredients not only protect against UVA/UVB rays but also nourish your skin deeply, fighting off free radicals.
You’ll love how it feels on your skin—most users agree it’s hydrating without being greasy. Plus, it applies sheer and clear, so it won’t interfere with your tan’s look. Its antioxidant-rich composition helps nourish the skin, further enhancing the longevity and appearance of your spray tan.
Credit: Alba Botanica
The Alba Botanica Hawaiian Face Fragrance Free Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30, free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, is the ideal choice for maintaining your spray tan while protecting sensitive skin. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can enjoy your beach day without frequent reapplications. Its water-resistant formula ensures that your tan remains even, whether you’re swimming or sweating, making it a reliable choice for all your outdoor activities. This sunscreen is not only effective but also environmentally conscious with its biodegradable formula. It’s cruelty-free, and is devoid of harmful parabens and phthalates.
Credit: EltaMD
Ideal for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, EltaMD UV Shield Broad-Spectrum SPF 45 offers both UVA and UVB protection. This broad-spectrum sunscreen features a cosmetically elegant formula that won’t leave your skin feeling greasy. Its active ingredients include 9.0% zinc oxide and 7.5% octinoxate, which work together to reflect and scatter harmful sun rays. Additionally, it’s fortified with tocopheryl acetate, a form of vitamin E, that acts as an anti-aging antioxidant, reducing the impact of free radicals. EltaMD is known for its medical-grade skincare, ensuring that your skin and spray tan receive the best protection.
Credit: Supergoop!
If you’re seeking a sunscreen that won’t disrupt your spray tan, Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 is a top choice due to its invisible, weightless formula. This sunscreen is invisible once applied, making it perfect for all skin tones without affecting the color of your spray tan. It offers broad-spectrum coverage, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which is essential for keeping your skin healthy and your tan intact. It’s water- and sweat-resistant for up to 40 minutes and even helps filter blue light, making it ideal for both outdoor and digital screen exposure.
The velvety, smooth gel is perfect for all skin types—normal, combination, dry, or oily. It won’t feel heavy or greasy, nor will it leave a white cast. It’s also serves as a primer for makeup, making it a versatile product for your face. With key ingredients like red algae, frankincense, and meadowfoam seed oil, it not only protects but nourishes your skin.
Practical tips for sunscreen application over spray tan
Proper application of sunscreen is crucial to extend the life of your spray tan. Start by choosing a sunscreen lotion that’s gentle and doesn’t contain oils that could break down the tan. Apply the sunscreen gently in a thin, even layer over your body, making sure not to rub or massage it vigorously as this can affect your tan. Let it absorb completely before dressing.
When it comes to reapplying sunscreen, timing is everything. Ideally, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours if you’re spending the day outdoors. After swimming or sweating, it’s important to reapply immediately to maintain sun protection. Always wait until your spray tan is fully developed (usually after a few hours or as recommended by your tan specialist) before applying your first layer of sunscreen.
Choosing the best lotions for sun protection without compromising your spray tan involves opting for products labeled as ‘broad-spectrum’ to ensure you’re getting protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
Sunless tanning and sun protection can go hand in hand with the right approach. Remember that the ultimate goal is to protect your skin from sun damage while enjoying your spray tan. By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve a beautiful, lasting tan without compromising your skin’s health.
Questions you may have
What sunscreen to avoid with spray tan?
When you have a spray tan, it’s important to avoid certain types of sunscreen to maintain your tan’s quality. Specifically, avoid aerosol or spray-on sunblock as they can cause uneven fading. These products often contain alcohol, which can dry out your skin and lead to premature fading of your tan.
Moreover, not all sunscreens are spray tan friendly. Sunscreen lotions that are oil-based can also break down the tan, causing it to fade unevenly or more quickly.
Will sunscreen ruin a spray tan?
Contrary to common concerns, wearing sunscreen will not ruin your spray tan if chosen carefully. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for any sun exposure to protect your skin without affecting your tan. Look for sunscreens that are free from oils and alcohol, as these ingredients can degrade your tan.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy fun in the sun safely. Reapplying sunscreen every 80 minutes, especially after swimming or sweating, is essential for protection. With the right sunscreen lotion, following these spray tan aftercare tips and tricks, you can keep your golden glow and bronzed skin looking fabulous while wearing your favorite bathing suit. Proper sun protection is key to enjoying a lasting, beautiful tan.
