How UV exposure affects your spray tan

How UV Exposure Affects Your Spray Tan: What You Need to Know

Published On: March 19, 2025

How UV exposure affects your spray tan is a common concern for anyone who loves a bronzed glow. Spending too much time in the sun before or after a spray tan can cause fading, peeling, and uneven results. Sunburn, dry skin, and increased cell turnover all impact how long your tan lasts and how evenly it develops.

In this guide, we’ll explain how UV rays affect your spray tan, what happens when you get sunburned, and the best ways to protect your glow for long-lasting results.

How UV Exposure Affects Your Skin & Spray Tan

☀️ Before Your Spray Tan: The Impact of UV Exposure

If you’ve recently been out in the sun, especially for extended periods, your skin may react differently to a spray tan. Here’s why:

1️⃣ Sunburned or Peeling Skin Won’t Hold a Spray Tan Well

  • Sunburn causes the skin to peel and flake, leading to uneven absorption of spray tan solution.
  • As damaged skin sheds, your tan will fade in patches rather than evenly.

2️⃣ Tanned Skin Can Make Your Spray Tan Look Different

  • If your skin is naturally darker from a recent suntan, your spray tan might appear lighter than expected or develop unevenly.
  • A fresh sunburn or tan alters your skin’s pH, affecting how DHA (the tanning ingredient) reacts.

3️⃣ UV Damage Dries Out Your Skin

  • Overexposure to the sun strips your skin of moisture, making it less receptive to a spray tan.
  • Dry skin absorbs spray tan solution unevenly, leading to streaky or patchy results.

✅ Tip: If you’ve had sun exposure, wait at least 5-7 days after sunburn has healed before getting a spray tan. Exfoliate gently to remove peeling skin before your appointment for a smooth, even result.

☀️ After Your Spray Tan: How UV Exposure Affects Tan Longevity

Once you have a fresh spray tan, spending time in the sun without protection can shorten its lifespan. Here’s how:

1️⃣ UV Rays Accelerate Skin Cell Turnover

  • Your body naturally sheds dead skin cells, but UV exposure speeds up the process, causing your tan to fade more quickly.
  • Excess sun exposure can cause uneven fading, especially if some areas peel faster than others.

2️⃣ Sunburn Will Ruin a Spray Tan

  • If you get sunburned after a spray tan, peeling skin will remove layers of your tan, creating an inconsistent, blotchy look.
  • Since spray tans don’t provide sun protection, you must wear SPF to avoid damage.

3️⃣ Chlorine & Saltwater Can Strip Your Tan Faster

  • If you combine UV exposure with swimming, chlorine and saltwater can dry out your skin and cause your tan to fade prematurely.
  • The combination of sun, water, and exfoliation is the fastest way to lose your tan.

✅ Tip: Protect your tan by wearing spray tan-safe sunscreen (like SunBum or Coola), avoiding prolonged UV exposure, and keeping your skin moisturized.

How to Protect Your Spray Tan from UV Damage

✅ Pre-Tan Sun Safety Tips:

  • Avoid sunburn at least a week before your spray tan.
  • Exfoliate 24 hours before your appointment to remove peeling or dry skin.
  • Moisturize daily to keep your skin hydrated and tan-ready but don’t apply lotion the day of your spray.

✅ Post-Tan Protection Tips:

  • Always wear SPF to prevent sunburn and premature fading.
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially the first 24 hours after tanning.
  • Use tan-friendly moisturizers to keep your skin from drying out.
  • Stay hydrated to maintain healthy, glowing skin.

Final Thoughts: Can You Still Enjoy the Sun With a Spray Tan?

Absolutely! A spray tan is the safest way to achieve a bronzed glow without harmful UV exposure. However, to get the best results, it’s important to protect your skin before and after tanning.

📅 Ready to book your next spray tan? Schedule your appointment now and keep your glow looking flawless all season long!