Spray Tans & Sunburns: What You Need to Know ☀️
Nothing says summer like sunshine, but too much sun can leave you dealing with a painful sunburn. One of the most common questions this time of year we get at Grand City Tanning is: "Can I get a spray tan if I'm sunburned?"
Here's everything you need to know about sunburns and spray tans so you can get the best, most even glow possible.
Can You Get a Spray Tan Over a Sunburn? 🤔
Technically, yes, but we don't recommend it (like, at all).
A spray tan works by reacting with the amino acids in the outermost layer of your skin. When your skin is sunburned, it's damaged, inflamed, and often preparing to peel. This can lead to:
Uneven color development
Dark spots or patchiness
Premature fading
Peeling that takes your tan with it
Increased sensitivity during your appointment
If your skin is red, tender, or actively peeling, it's usually best to wait until your sunburn has healed before getting a spray tan.
What Happens If My Sunburn Peels? 😩
This is the biggest issue when it comes to spray tanning after a sunburn.
When damaged skin begins to shed, your spray tan sheds right along with it. Even if your tan looks beautiful on day one, peeling skin can create blotchy patches and uneven fading over the following days.
Unfortunately, there's no way to prevent this from happening. Once your skin starts peeling, the tan attached to those skin cells will peel away too. There is no way to predict if or when your sunburn will peel.
How Long Should I Wait After a Sunburn? ⏰
The answer depends on the severity of your burn. Some burns can take up to 4-6 weeks to completely heal. Even if your skin isn’t red or painful, peeling can be delayed.
How to Care for Sunburned Skin ❤️🩹
If you've spent a little too much time in the sun, focus on helping your skin recover:
Drink plenty of water.
Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
Use aloe vera to soothe irritation.
Avoid harsh exfoliants until your skin heals.
Stay out of the sun while your skin recovers.
Wear SPF daily to prevent additional damage.
We are here to help at Grand City Tanning ✨
If you're unsure whether your sunburn has healed enough for a spray tan, our team is happy to help you determine the best timing for your appointment.
A little patience after a sunburn can make all the difference between a patchy tan and a flawless glow you'll love.