Spray Tan Myths vs. Truths: What Actually Protects Your Skin?

Published On: May 15, 2026

Every May, Melanoma Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that glowing skin should never come at the expense of healthy skin. At Shades Atelier in Bryan-College Station, we’re passionate about helping clients achieve a beautiful, bronzed glow without harmful UV exposure.

One of the biggest misconceptions we still hear? That tanning somehow protects your skin from sun damage. Today, we’re breaking down some of the most common spray tan and tanning myths — and sharing the truth about what actually keeps your skin safe.

Myth #1: A Base Tan Protects Your Skin

Truth: A “base tan” is still skin damage.

Many people believe getting a tan before summer vacations or pool season helps prevent sunburns. In reality, a tan is your skin responding to UV damage. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, there is no such thing as a safe tan from UV exposure.

That’s why many people are now choosing custom spray tans and sunless tanning instead of traditional tanning methods.

If you missed our blog from last year’s Melanoma Awareness Month, you can read it here:
Melanoma Awareness Month: Protect Your Skin

Myth #2: Spray Tans Protect You From the Sun

Truth: Spray tans do not replace sunscreen.

This is one of the most common misconceptions about spray tanning. While a spray tan gives your skin a bronzed appearance, it does not provide real sun protection unless a product specifically contains SPF.

You should still wear sunscreen daily — especially in Texas where UV exposure is intense year-round.

The good news? You absolutely can wear sunscreen with a spray tan. In fact, we encourage it.

At Shades Atelier, we also carry spray tan-friendly retail products designed to help maintain your glow while keeping your skin healthy and protected.

Myth #3: Tanned Skin Is Healthier Skin

Truth:Bronzed skin from UV tanning is actually your skin reacting to injury.

UV rays damage skin cells and accelerate premature aging, sunspots, wrinkles, and increased melanoma risk over time. Many people don’t realize that indoor tanning beds expose you to concentrated UV radiation that can be even more intense than natural sunlight.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, indoor tanning can increase the risk of developing melanoma, especially when tanning begins at a younger age.

That’s why sunless tanning has become such a popular alternative for clients who want the glow without the UV exposure.

Myth #4: Spray Tans Are Worse for Your Skin Than the Sun

Truth: Spray tans are considered a safer cosmetic alternative to UV tanning.

Custom spray tans and VersaSpa spray tans work by temporarily darkening the outermost layer of the skin — without exposing your skin to damaging UV rays.

At Shades Atelier, we love helping clients achieve a natural-looking glow customized to their skin tone and goals. Whether you prefer a subtle sun-kissed look or a deeper bronze, spray tanning allows you to enjoy the look of a tan while avoiding unnecessary UV exposure.

Want to learn more about why so many people are switching from UV tanning to spray tanning?

Read:
The Benefits of Spray Tanning Over Sun Tanning

Myth #5: Only Fair Skin Can Get Melanoma

Truth: Melanoma can affect anyone.

While skin cancer risk can vary based on skin tone and genetics, melanoma does not discriminate. People of all skin tones can develop melanoma and other forms of skin cancer.

That’s why regular skin checks, sunscreen use, and limiting unnecessary UV exposure are important for everyone.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation Melanoma Facts & Statistics, melanoma is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in young adults.

A Healthy Glow Starts With Healthy Skin

At Shades Atelier, we believe you should never have to choose between glowing skin and healthy skin.

Our custom spray tans and VersaSpa Pro booth allow clients in Bryan-College Station to achieve a beautiful, confidence-boosting glow without the harmful effects of UV tanning.

This Melanoma Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to:

Wear sunscreen daily
Schedule regular skin checks
Avoid unnecessary UV exposure
Choose safer alternatives like spray tanning

Looking for a natural-looking spray tan in Bryan-College Station? We’d love to help you glow safely this season. 🤎

Book Now