Can You Use Self Tan or Get a Spray Tan if You Have Psoriasis or Dry Skin?

If you live with psoriasis, eczema or naturally dry skin, you’ve probably wondered whether self tan or a spray tan is a good idea or if it’ll simply make dry patches stand out even more.

The good news? In many cases, you can absolutely enjoy a beautiful, bronzed glow. The secret isn’t avoiding tanning altogether it’s preparing your skin properly and choosing quality products that work with your skin, not against it.

Does Self Tan Make Psoriasis Worse?

Self tan doesn’t treat or cure psoriasis, but it also isn’t known to cause psoriasis itself. The active tanning ingredient (DHA) works by reacting with the very top layer of dead skin cells to create a temporary bronzed colour.

If your psoriasis is currently flaring, cracked, inflamed or weeping, it’s generally best to wait until your skin has settled before applying self tan or booking a spray tan. Applying any cosmetic product to broken skin can be uncomfortable and may not produce an even result.

If your psoriasis is well managed and your skin is intact, many people find they can successfully wear self tan with great results.

Why Dry Skin Can Affect Your Tan

Self tan naturally develops more deeply on areas where the skin is drier. That’s because dry skin contains more dead skin cells for the DHA to react with.

This means you may notice:

• Darker elbows and knees
• Patchy ankles
• Uneven fading
• Dry patches appearing more noticeable

Fortunately, these issues are usually easy to minimise with the right preparation.

How to Prepare Dry or Psoriasis Prone Skin

Preparation is everything when it comes to achieving a flawless finish.

1. Gently exfoliate

Use a soft exfoliating mitt or gentle body exfoliant 24 hours before tanning to remove loose, flaky skin.

Avoid harsh scrubbing over active psoriasis plaques, as this may further irritate the skin.

2. Moisturise regularly

Keeping your skin hydrated in the days leading up to your tan helps create a smoother surface for a more even result.

Well hydrated skin generally holds a tan more evenly than very dry skin.

3. Apply a light moisturiser to dry areas

Just before applying self tan, lightly moisturise areas like:

• Hands
• Wrists
• Elbows
• Knees
• Ankles
• Feet

This creates a barrier that helps prevent those areas from becoming too dark.

Can You Get a Spray Tan with Psoriasis?

Yes many people with psoriasis choose spray tanning instead of sun exposure.

If you have active patches, let your spray tan technician know before your appointment. An experienced technician can adjust their application technique where needed to help create the most even finish possible.

If your skin is particularly sensitive or you’re trying a new product, it’s always worth patch testing first.

How to Make Your Tan Last Longer

Hydration is the key to a longer-lasting tan.

Once your tan has developed:

• Moisturise daily.
• Avoid long, hot showers.
• Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing with a towel.
• Use gentle, non stripping body washes.
• Keep your skin hydrated from the inside by drinking plenty of water.

The healthier your skin barrier, the more evenly your tan will fade.

Is Self Tan Better Than Sun Tanning?

For many people with dry skin or psoriasis, self tan offers the appearance of a sun-kissed glow without needing to expose the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

While some people notice changes in their psoriasis after natural sun exposure, UV exposure also carries well-established risks such as premature skin ageing and skin cancer. Self tan provides colour without those UV risks because DHA only colours the outermost layer of the skin.

Our Top Tips

If you have dry skin or psoriasis:

✔️ Wait until broken or inflamed skin has settled.
✔️ Exfoliate gently.
✔️ Keep skin well hydrated.
✔️ Moisturise dry areas before tanning.
✔️ Choose high quality tanning products.
✔️ Patch test if you have sensitive skin or are using a new product.

Glow With Confidence

Having psoriasis or dry skin doesn’t automatically mean you have to miss out on a beautiful tan.

With a little extra skin preparation and hydration, most people can achieve a natural looking, even result that fades beautifully.

At Custom Tan, we believe every skin journey is different. Taking the time to prep your skin properly is one of the easiest ways to achieve your most flawless glow yet.