If you have sensitive skin – or you’re prone to allergies, eczema, psoriasis or skin irritation – you might be wondering: “Is a spray tan safe for me?” At Wild About Tan, we understand those worries. That’s why we want to put your mind at ease, explain all you need to know, and show you how a spray tan can still be a safe, beautiful option.
Why spray tans are often safer than sun-tanning
- A spray tan gives you a sunless glow, avoiding exposure to harmful UV rays. Unlike sunbathing or sunbed tanning, there’s no danger of skin damage, sunburn or increasing your risk of skin cancer.
- Spray tans work using a skin-safe active ingredient called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA reacts only with the outer layer of your skin – it doesn’t penetrate deep – which makes spray tans a topical, non-invasive option.
Because of this, spray tans are often considered the safer choice compared with UV tanning.
Can spray tans irritate sensitive or allergy-prone skin?
Yes – but often only if certain factors aren’t addressed. Here’s what can cause irritation or reaction:
- Some tanning solutions contain irritants such as alcohol, synthetic fragrances, or preservatives, which can aggravate sensitive skin.
- Certain additives – like Propylene glycol – have been associated with skin sensitisation, redness, itching, or inflammation in susceptible individuals.
- Skin that is already compromised (e.g. eczema, psoriasis, recent sunburn or freshly shaved/ waxed skin) may be more reactive and might absorb the tanning solution unevenly or irritate more easily.
- Inhaling the spray – or exposure to mist near mucous membranes (eyes, lips, nose) – can carry additional risks.
That said, many people with sensitive or allergy-prone skin enjoy spray tans comfortably – provided the right precautions are taken.
How Wild About Tan helps make spray tans safe for sensitive skin
At Wild About Tan, we’re especially mindful of clients with sensitive skin. Here’s how we ensure a safe, comfortable, and beautiful spray tan experience:
- We use high-quality, paraben-free and gentle solutions, avoiding harsh alcohols or irritating chemicals, to reduce the chance of skin reaction. (In fact, this has always been a core Wild About Tan principle.)
- For first-time clients – especially those with sensitive skin, eczema or psoriasis – we recommend a patch test. A small area of skin is sprayed (for example behind the ear or on the inner arm), then monitored for 24–48 hours for any redness, itching or irritation. If all is well, then a full-body tan can be safely applied.
- Aftercare advice is tailored: we recommend gentle moisturisers (ideally fragrance-free or formulated for sensitive skin), and avoidance of harsh soaps, scrubs or exfoliators right after tan. This helps maintain your skin barrier and keep your tan looking even as it develops. (Dry or flaky skin can absorb tan unevenly.)
What you can do to prepare and protect your sensitive skin
If you’re considering a spray tan and have sensitive or reactive skin, follow these steps for the best results:
- Patch test – always test first on a small, discreet area and wait 24–48 hours.
- Check ingredients – if possible, choose a fragrance-free, alcohol-free, gentle formula (especially avoiding propylene glycol or harsh preservatives).
- Prep skin gently – exfoliate (gently) 24–48 hours before your tan; avoid shaving or waxing right before, and ensure skin is clean and moisturised.
- Protect during application – wear eye protection, nose/mouth coverage if needed, and ensure good ventilation.
- Aftercare – moisturise regularly with gentle lotion, avoid harsh soaps or scrubs, and treat your skin kindly to prolong the tan and protect its health.