If you have psoriasis and you’re using self-tanners or spray tans, a few simple precautions can help reduce irritation, improve results, and protect your skin barrier. These include the following:
Choose Gentle Formulations
Daveluy says that while psoriatic skin isn’t as sensitive as other types of skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, you can take precautions and shop for a self-tanner or spray with the following characteristics:
- Fragrance-free
- Free of exfoliating acids or scrubs
- Noncomedogenic, if acne is a concern
- Free of alcohol, dyes, essential oils, and sulfates
The aim here is to choose products that are less likely to cause irritation or allergy, Daveluy says.
Patch Test First
It’s especially important to do a patch test on your skin before using a new product on the rest of your body if you have psoriasis.
For daily-use products like moisturizers, Daveluy recommends applying the product to the same spot — usually the inside of the upper arm — twice a day for about two weeks and watching for signs of irritation, such as itching or rash. If the skin tolerates it well, it’s likely safe to use elsewhere.
Because self-tanners aren’t typically used every day, you can modify this approach by applying the product to the test area every few days instead.
Always Use Sunscreen
When choosing sunscreen, look for a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 30 or higher, ideally containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which help block harmful UV rays. Always avoid applying sunscreen to open or actively inflamed skin.
Moisturize Strategically
Moisturizing is key for people with psoriasis. You can prep the skin before applying a self-tanner by taking a warm bath to loosen or remove scales, then follow up with moisturizing immediately after, Adigun says.
“It might look marginally better,” she says.
You can also try gentle exfoliation before application — with careful attention to avoid exfoliating parts of your body with active psoriasis, Daveluy says. “Don’t try to exfoliate or pick the scale off your psoriasis, since trauma can cause psoriasis to flare,” he warns.
After the self-tanner or spray tan sets, keep moisturizing your skin to reduce flaking, Green says. He recommends using a thick, heavy cream — think jar-based products rather than pump lotions — to help seal in moisture.
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