Makeup is an important part of our life. Whether it is a family function or a corporate meeting we make sure to use our makeup to enhance our look. so, my clients ask me if can tanning be done through makeup.
My answer to them and all my readers is YES, you can get tan while wearing makeup as it does not act as a complete barrier. The UV rays can still penetrate your skin and help you tan through makeup.
However, most makeup and tanning products that we use contain chemicals that can react with our skin and lead to a splotchy, uneven tan. So, even if you can tan through makeup using a tinted moisturizer with SPF can be the best choice while tanning.
In this post, I will share more detailed information on what happens if you tan with makeup on and how will it affect your skin. so, go through this article thoroughly before planning your next tanning session.
What Happens if You Tan With Makeup?
Different makeup products like lipstick, powder, blush, eyeshadow, and foundation can act as a barrier and stop the UV rays from getting absorbed by your skin completely.
Some people think that makeup can protect their skin from direct exposure to UV rays. However, this is absolutely wrong. No makeup can protect your skin from sun damage caused by the UV rays except, a good sunscreen with higher SPF.
Using good sunscreen is a must before being exposed to UV rays to prevent premature aging, sunburns, and even skin cancer.
So, although not completely, makeup can act as a barrier and reduce the production of melatonin while tanning. thus, tanning through makeup can lead to an uneven, patchy tan.
How Can Makeup Affect Your Tan?
Now as you know wearing makeup while tanning can somehow affect your tan color. so, here are some other variables you need to consider to make sure how the makeup will affect your tan.
Makeup Containing SPF
Although some makeup products contain SPF but, they cannot protect your skin completely from harmful UV rays.
So, for complete protection always use sunscreens with SPF 30 or above.
Skin Type
Different skin type shows different result after tanning. People with sensitive skin can get sunburned easily if proper protection is not taken. Some medications can also make your skin sensitive.
The Time for Tanning
Although using a good sunscreen is always recommended whenever you are tanning but a sunscreen with higher SPF is a must while getting tan in the middle of the day.
The sun rays are intense between 11 am to 4 pm. So, extra protection should be taken if you are planning to get tan during that period.
Skin Pores
Being in the sun with makeup on can cause sweat and, excess oil is produced by your skin thus, clogging up your pores.
Breakouts in the Skin
Breakouts and irritation are common with clogged pores. Breakouts can also make your skin more sensitive and thus, get damaged easily when exposed to UV rays.
How Can You Tan With Makeup on?
Even after knowing the side effects of tanning through makeup, some people cannot resist using makeup while tanning. Here, are some tips to help you tan through makeup without much damage.
Use Foundation With SPF
Using an oil-free and lightweight concealer with SPF can be a good idea while tanning. Being non-comedogenic the concealer will provide protection to your skin, and prevent breakouts and clogged pores.
However, using a good sunscreen as a base layer is a must before applying these concealers except if you are using a tinted sunscreen.
Although most sunscreens claim to provide complete protection but, you need to reapply them from time to time when being exposed to UV rays for longer periods.
To get information on some of the best sunscreens check out my post on 7 Best Sunscreen for Tanning at the Beach.
Use a Tinted Moisturizer
Most tinted moisturizers come with SPF. Using these moisturizers can protect your skin to some extent and also keep your skin hydrated.
You can go out in the sun confidently without being worried about sun damage.
Try Out Tinted Sunscreen
Besides, protecting your skin from sun damage a tinted sunscreen creates an even tone when applied all over your body.
Using a tinted sunscreen can help you maintain your natural look even, without using any concealer.
10 Best Tanning Bed Lotions
I will guide you to choose the best tanning lotion and also share my opinion on these tanning lotions.
How to Remove Your Makeup Properly Before Tanning?
Tanning without wearing makeup can help you achieve an even, glowing tan and prevents patches and sunburn. Follow the tips shared below to remove your makeup properly before getting tan.
Do Not Rub Your Skin
Rubbing your skin while removing makeup can make your skin more irritated. Irritated and damaged skin gets sunburned easily.
So, you should not rub your skin too fast or rough while removing your makeup before tanning.
Try Mild Soap
Use a mild soap and warm water to remove any leftover makeup gently from your skin before getting tan.
Use a Makeup Remover
You can also use a makeup remover or cleanser to remove the excess makeup. Using a makeup remover will also nourish your skin and prevent dryness.
Remove Makeup Completely
Always remove all the makeup before tanning. We often forget to notice the edges of our eyelids and our hairline. So, make sure no makeup is left over in these areas.
Use a Moisturizer That Contains SPF
Applying a good moisturizer with SPF is always suggested after removing your makeup.
This will keep your skin hydrated and the spf will give some extra protection while sunbathing.
You also need to apply sunscreen with higher SPF before being exposed to UV rays while tanning.
Final Thought
Although some people are comfortable getting tan through makeup but, removing it before tanning can be a good idea. Tanning through makeup clogged pores and lead to skin breakouts.
Your skin can be extremely damaged when you are been exposed to the UV rays with makeup on. Tanning through makeup can also lead to blotches and sunburn.
So, being a tanning expert I will suggest you all remove your makeup before tanning. I hope the tips shared above will guide you and help you get that glowing, even tan without skin damage and burn.
FAQs
Makeup cannot be a complete barrier and thus, cannot stop the UV rays from reaching your skin completely. So, yes you can get tan with makeup on. However, if the UV rays do not reach some areas of your skin properly then, it may lead to an uneven, blotchy tan.
Wearing makeup in a tanning bed is much more dangerous than tanning in the sun. the bulbs used in tanning beds are 20x stronger. So tanning through makeup in a tanning bed can cause severe damage to your skin. the heat produced by the lights will also melt and run your makeup. So, it is always better to avoid wearing makeup while sun tanning, tanning beds, or using any self-tanning products
