If you have been asking questions like do spray tans cover stretch marks or if spray tans are a good alternative for covering stretch marks, the quick answer is yes. But before you go ahead and get a spray tan, first you have to learn more if this is a good option for you.
Another thing that you must know before getting that airbrush tan cover is how you can prepare beforehand to make sure that spray tanning will become successful as you expected.
You must also know that spray tan cover stretch marks for the duration that the spray tan lasts and may not completely hide stretch marks, unlike body makeup.
The information below will help you learn all that you need to know about stretch marks and spray tanning. You will also see information about how you can prepare for a spray tan and there are helpful frequently asked questions at the end that you must check out.
How Do Spray Tans Cover Stretch Marks?
Spray tans can cover stretch marks by evening out the skin tone and making the area look more even. The pigmentation in the stretch marks will be concealed with the help of the right shade of spray tan. The pigmentation cells are important for natural tanning.
The best thing about using a spray tan to cover stretch marks is that it is a temporary solution. This means that if you do not like the way it looks or feels, you can always wash it off.
Body makeup is a more permanent solution that can completely conceal stretch marks. But, once it is used to cover up stretch marks, it can be quite tricky to remove. So, if you are not sure about using body makeup to cover your stretch marks, then a spray tan might be a better option for you.
Another solution aside from using a fake tan product to cover up stretch marks but a more expensive one is getting laser treatments.
You might also be curious to know more about stretch marks so we have prepared additional information about stretch marks.
What Are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are markings that can appear on the skin during periods of rapid growth or due to sudden weight gain. When the skin stretches too much, the collagen and elastin in the skin will break down and this results in the formation of stretch marks.
Stretch marks are indicators that there is damage in the deeper layers of the skin and the connective tissues.
Stretch marks are usually red or purple when they first appear but stretch marks fade to a white or silver color. They can occur on different parts of the body but are most common in areas where there is more fat such as the stomach, thighs, breasts, and buttocks.
How to Check if Spray Tans Can Reduce Stretch Marks
You can check how effective spray tans can cover up stretch marks by doing a patch test first. Apply the spray fake tan to a small area of skin that has stretch marks and wait for it to develop.
If you are happy with the results, then you can go ahead and apply them to the rest of your body to cover up stretch marks. But if you are not satisfied with the results, then you might want to try another method of covering your stretch marks.
Doing a patch test is also a good practice to know if you have normal skin or sensitive skin.
Preparation Tips for the Best Spray Tan Cover for Stretch Marks
Now that you know more about how spray tans can cover stretch marks, it is time to learn how you can prepare for the best results. Here are some tips that you can follow:
Exfoliate your skin Before Getting a Spray Tan
Exfoliating your skin before getting a spray tan can help to remove excess dead skin cells and give you a more even application. It is important to exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells 24 hours before you get a spray tan to avoid darker patches.
You can use a body scrub or an exfoliating glove to gently exfoliate your skin. Avoid using any harsh scrubs as this can irritate the skin.
Moisturizing Your Skin
Moisturizing before you get a spray tan can help to hydrate the entire skin and make it more receptive to the tanning solution. Apply a layer of moisturizer all over your body and let it soak in for at least 15 minutes before you get a spray fake tan.
You can use a regular body lotion or a self-tanning lotion as your moisturizer. Just make sure that it is fully absorbed into the skin before you start spray tanning.
Shaving and Waxing
It is best to shave and wax at least 24 hours before you get a spray fake tan. This will give your skin time to recover and prevent any irritation.
If you do need to shave or wax closer to your spray tan appointment, then make sure that you moisturize the area afterward.
Wearing the Right Clothes
It is important to wear the right clothes when you get a spray tan. Wear loose-fitting clothes that are made from natural fabrics such as cotton.
Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes or synthetic fabrics such as polyester as these can absorb the spray tan that can leave streaks on your skin and unwanted darker shade.
Avoid Products that Will Act as Barriers to Your Spray Tan
There are products that you should avoid before getting a spray tan as they can act as barriers to the spray tan solution. These products include:
- oils
- lotions
- deodorants
- perfumes
If you have used any of these products, then make sure that you remove them completely before you get a spray tan. You can use a baby wipe or cotton pad soaked in isopropyl alcohol to remove these products from your skin.
Choose the Right Tan Shade for Stretch Marks
You also need to know about the right tan shade for your skin type and skin color for a wonderful glow. If you have light stretch marks, then you can opt for a lighter shade.
But if your stretch marks are darker, then you might want to go for darker shades to cover them completely.
You can always ask for help from the spray tan technician to choose the right shade for your skin tone and type for the perfect golden glow.
Consider getting a Spray Tan When You Have Older Stretch Marks
So, if you want to get the best results, it is best to wait until your stretch marks have faded before you get a spray tan. If you have older stretch marks then you can consider getting a spray tan.
Use a Trusted Spray Tan Self Tanner Product or Spray Tan Service
Last but not the least, you have to make sure that the spray tanning product that you use are manufactured by trusted brands.
You should also look for a spray tan service that uses high-quality tanning product solutions on their clients’ skin. This way, you can be sure that your spray tan will last longer and give you the best results.
Aftercare Tips for Your Spray Tan as Stretch Marks Cover
It is important to take care of your spray tan after you have applied it. Here are some aftercare tips that you can follow:
Avoid Water
Avoid showering, swimming, or sweating for at least 8 hours after you get a spray tan. This will give the natural tan time to set and develop properly.
If you do get wet, then make sure that you pat your skin dry with a towel and avoid rubbing it.
Moisturize Your Skin
It is important to moisturize your skin after you get a spray tan as this will help to prolong the life of your tinted skin.
Apply a layer of moisturizer all over your skin and let it soak in for at least 15 minutes.
You can use a regular body lotion or a self-tanning lotion as your moisturizer. Just make sure that it is fully absorbed into the skin before you put on clothes.
Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes
Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes or synthetic fabrics such as polyester as these can absorb the spray tan and leave streaks on your skin. Wear loose-fitting clothes that are made from natural fabrics such as cotton.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals That Can Strip Your Tan
Avoid harsh chemicals such as chlorine as these can strip your tan. If you are going to be exposed to chlorine, then make sure that you wear a swimsuit that covers your entire body.
You should also avoid hot tubs and saunas as these can also strip your tan.
Use Sunscreen
It is important to use sunscreen when you have a spray tan as this will help to protect your skin surface from the sun’s harmful rays.
Apply sunscreen all over your body and make sure that you reapply it every 2 hours.
Choose a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 and is water-resistant.
Reapply Your Tan Every Few Days
Getting a spray tan for your skin surface is temporary so it is a must to reapply after a few days to get the coverage that you want. The recommended number of days to reapply your spray tan is from 9 to 10 days.
Final Thoughts on Spray Tanning for Stretch Marks
Spray tan cover stretch marks but you need to take some necessary precautions and aftercare tips to make sure that your tinted skin will look fabulous. Just follow the tips that are mentioned above and you will surely get the best results.
Spray Tanning for Stretch Marks FAQs
Will tanning make stretch marks worse?
No, tanning will not make your stretch marks worse. It can help to camouflage them and make them less noticeable.
Can I use a self-tanner to cover my stretch marks?
Yes, you can use a self-tanner to cover your stretch marks. Just make sure that you choose a product from a trusted source. If you plan to do a self-tan, you might want to check this link to get the best spray tanners for your skin tone: Best Self Tanner
Does tanning get rid of stretch marks?
Tanning does not get rid of stretch marks only covers them up. Exfoliating treatments or specialized laser treatments can completely remove stretch marks.
Is spray tan waterproof?
Generally yes, as long as you wait at least 8 hours before you soak yourself in a bath or on the beach.
Does spray tan age your skin?
Yes, tanning can increase the oxidation in your natural skin and can cause the skin to age but there are self-tanning products that combat the oxidation with antioxidants and you must also use sunscreen for additional protection.
What are the other ways to tan skin aside from spray tans?
Tanning beds, tanning lotions, and tanning foam are other ways of getting a natural-looking tan.
Can you spray tan on scarred skin?
Yes, you can as long as the wounds have completely healed. This is because the spray tan will not adhere to the scar tissue as well as healthy natural skin.
