Does fake tan cover up acne scars? | Sienna X (2024)

FAQs

Can fake tan hide acne scars? ›

For those unfortunate enough to suffer from this skin condition, fake tanning can sometimes help to hide an acne scar or breakout. If your self-confidence is being dented by acne, using fake tan products can sometimes help you feel better about your appearance.

Gradual tanners are perfect for bringing a light colour change to the skin whereas darker, longer-lasting options are great for covering up deeper scars.

Always make sure your skin is thoroughly moisturized before self-tanner application, especially if you struggle with acne and/or eczema. "It's really important to apply a light layer of a non-oil-based moisturizer to the problem area prior to application," explains Sophie Evans, St. Tropez's tanning expert.

Opt for an oil-free sunless tan that will gradually darken your skin and leave a streak-free, even finish. If you worry about acne on your face, back, or other area, ask your technician to use caution on existing acne spots or scars to avoid darkening these areas too much.

Trying to tan skin to hide your scar is never a good idea, and will most likely lead to a more marked appearance. Some creams are extra-convenient because they combine active pro-recovery ingredients with very high sun protection factors.

if you want to conceal, applying silicone gel sheeting in natural skin color will completely cover the scar and blend with the surrounding tissue.

But if you do go to a tanning salon, cover your scars using occlusive tape, like electrical tape. You can get this kind of tape from a local pharmacy. Tanning spray: Spray tans are a great option because they minimize your exposure to UV light and let you control how dark you want your skin.

If your skin isn't sensitive or prone to breakouts, you can use a self-tan formulated for the body — but Evans recommends diluting it with your favorite facial moisturizer before application. Board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, agrees.

Do Self-Tanners Cause Acne? Although sunless tanning products alone should not cause you to develop acne, many of these products do cause acne-prone skin to break out.

Does fake tan fade acne scars? ›

The good news is that spray tanning and self-tanners may help dark acne scars (not so much pitted, rolling or ice pick acne scars) and scars that have already become hyperpigmented due to sun exposure.

Most of the fake tans require you to exfoliate your skin beforehand. Make sure your scars are fully healed so that exfoliation won't create any harm. Other than that, fake tans are a great alternative to achieving that bronze glow, minus all the harmful side effects.

Over time, the discoloration usually goes away. However, the scar remains. If you see a flat spot of color on your skin when acne clears, this usually isn't an acne scar. It's likely post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

A self-tanning cream can darken both kinds. So if you've got hypopigmentation, a self-tanner can help blend the spot into your complexion.

Acne spot treatments should be avoided for at least the first week after your spray tan. Anti-aging products that contain retinoids should also be avoided. Be careful about exercising as friction and excess sweat may cause your tan to fade.

Stay near the shade of an umbrella, so you don't get sunburned. Tanning bed: This is not the most ideal to tan your skin safely. But if you do go to a tanning salon, cover your scars using occlusive tape, like electrical tape. You can get this kind of tape from a local pharmacy.