You just walked out of a spray tan booth looking golden. Time to soak up some real sun, right? Not so fast. Here’s a question we get asked more than you’d think: does spray tan give you any sun protection?
The Short Answer: No.
Spray tan does not contain SPF, and Health Canada is clear that sunless tanning products don’t offer any UV protection. The DHA in spray tan solution reacts with the dead cells on the surface of your skin to create colour — it doesn’t create a barrier against UV radiation.
Why This Matters
A lot of people get a spray tan before a beach vacation and assume they’re somewhat protected. That’s a dangerous assumption. Your skin is just as vulnerable to sunburn as it was before the tan. Always apply sunscreen, regardless of how bronzed you look.
The Silver Lining
Spray tan can actually be a great tool for people who want to avoid the sun. Instead of baking in UV rays to get a tan, you get the colour without any of the damage. Think of it as a swap: you trade the risk for the glow.
If You’re Heading to the Beach
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before any sun exposure, and reapply at least every 2 hours, plus right after swimming or sweating. Remember that chlorine and salt water can fade your spray tan faster, so moisturize after swimming.
Your glow is worth protecting — both from the sun and from fading. Book your next session.
Sources
Health Canada: Sun safety basics · Canadian Dermatology Association: The Use of Sunless Tanners · Health Canada: Sunscreens · American Academy of Dermatology: How to apply sunscreen
