Can self-tanners make hyperpigmentation worse?

Self-tanning with spray tan products is a popular way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the risks associated with sun exposure. However, most sunless tanning products don't contain sunscreen, and the color produced doesn't protect your skin from UV rays. If you use a sunless tanning product and spend time outdoors, you still need a broad-spectrum sunscreen to keep your skin safe from UV radiation¹.

So can self-tanner make hyperpigmentation worse?

In most cases, self-tanner itself does not make hyperpigmentation worse. Spray tans and other self-tanning products contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a color additive that reacts with dead cells on the skin's surface to temporarily darken the skin and simulate a tan. When applied topically, DHA is a harmless tanning agent. The pigment from self-tanning products lives only on the outer layer of your skin and fades within a few days, and you can remove it faster by exfoliating.

While there have been some reports of skin reactions to DHA causing persistent hyperpigmentation², in most instances, uneven or patchy results from self-tanning are not true hyperpigmentation but rather the result of improper application techniques.

Quick tips for avoiding uneven self-tanning results

1. Exfoliate before tanning: Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells, especially on areas prone to dryness like knees, elbows, and ankles. This will help create a smooth, even surface for the self-tanner to adhere to.

2. Moisturize dry areas: Moisturizer dry areas before applying self-tanner. This will help prevent the tanner from clinging to dry patches and creating uneven results.

References:

1. Mayo Clinic Q and A: Tanning beds raise risk for skin cancer

2. Sunless Tanner Caused Persistent Hyperpigmented Patches on the Hands by Navid Farahbakhsh, MS Kathryn Anne Potter, MD Tania M. Gonzalez-Santiago, MD Anna De Benedetto, MD