Can You Wear SPF With Fake Tan? Yes, and Here's How to Do It Right

There’s nothing like that fresh, golden glow you get from a flawless Custom Tan application, whether it’s our Award-Winning Sunless Tanning Mousse or the Coco Luxe - Regular - Professional Spray Tan Solution - 10% DHA. But here’s something we need to talk about: self-tan does not protect your skin from the sun.

In fact, one of the biggest myths we still hear is that once you’ve got a fake tan, you’re covered. Literally. But that bronze glow? It’s cosmetic, not a UV shield.

So, Can You Wear SPF With Self-Tanner?

Absolutely. You should.

Self-tanners and spray tans are the safest way to achieve that sun-kissed look without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. But they don’t contain any SPF, which means your skin is still just as vulnerable to sunburn, skin damage, and premature aging.

Here’s why that matters:

• A natural tan is technically a sign of sun damage.

• The darker pigment your skin produces is its way of protecting itself.

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor) filters UV rays, it doesn’t block them entirely.

• Self-tanners like ours use DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to react with your top layer of skin and temporarily darken it and this gives you colour, not protection.

In short: Your self-tan may look like a real tan, but your skin is still fair and exposed underneath.

How to Wear SPF the Right Way With Your Fake Tan

Want to stay glowing and protected? Here’s how to pair your sunscreen with your self-tan:

1. Use a Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 or Higher
Choose a sunscreen that guards against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is ideal especially for the face, chest, and shoulders.

2. Apply Only After Your Tan Has Developed
Let your self-tan fully develop (usually 6–8 hours depending on the formula) before applying anything to your skin. Once you’ve rinsed off the bronzer and your tan has set, then go in with your sunscreen.

3. Pick Lightweight, Non-Greasy SPF Formulas
To avoid streaks or disrupting the tan, go for SPF that is:

• Oil-free or dry-touch

• Fast-absorbing

• Fragrance-free (to avoid irritation, especially on freshly tanned skin)

In fact, you can also check out our travel-friendly moisturiser, Travel Tan - Gradual Tanning Moisturiser PLUS Sunscreen, which gives you a buildable tan and sun protection in one step. Hydrates, glows, and protects.

Can You Still Tan With SPF and Self-Tanner?

Yes, but in a safer, more controlled way.

Even when you wear sunscreen, some UV still reaches your skin, enough to stimulate melanin production (aka your natural tan). The benefit? You still develop a real tan over time just without the intensity of unfiltered sun exposure. This helps minimise sun damage while still enjoying a touch of natural colour underneath your Custom Tan glow.

Bonus Tip: Want Your Tan to Last Longer?

SPF and hydration are your BFFs. Daily use of sunscreen protects your skin, which prevents peeling and damage meaning your tan stays smoother, longer. Pair your SPF with a daily moisturiser to keep your skin soft, supple, and bronzed.

Bottom Line: Be Glowing and Sun Safe

At Custom Tan, we’re all about delivering that sun-free glow with high-grade, vegan-friendly ingredients that are safe for you and the planet. But we also care about what goes underneath. So whether you’re stepping out with our mousse or heading to the salon for a spray tan, don’t forget your sunscreen.

Because real skin health? That’s the glow that never fades.