Does Spray Tanning Cover Psoriasis? Unveiling the Truth
The answer is nuanced. While a spray tan can temporarily camouflage psoriasis patches, it’s crucial to understand the limitations, potential risks, and proper techniques involved.
Psoriasis: A Quick Overview
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells. This accumulation leads to scaling, inflammation, and itchy, sometimes painful, plaques, typically appearing on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. It’s not contagious, but it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While there’s no cure for psoriasis, various treatments can help manage the symptoms.
The Appeal of Spray Tanning
Many individuals with psoriasis seek ways to conceal the visible symptoms of their condition. A spray tan offers the allure of a bronzed complexion without the harmful UV exposure associated with sunbathing or tanning beds. This can be particularly appealing as sun exposure can sometimes exacerbate psoriasis in certain individuals.
How Spray Tanning Works
Spray tanning solutions typically contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colorless sugar that interacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum. This chemical reaction produces melanoidins, which create a brown pigment that mimics a natural tan. The color usually develops within a few hours and lasts for several days, gradually fading as the skin naturally exfoliates.
Potential Benefits and Limitations for Psoriasis
- Cosmetic Camouflage: The primary benefit is the temporary masking of psoriasis patches, reducing the contrast between the affected skin and the surrounding healthy skin. This can improve self-esteem and body image.
- UV Avoidance: Spray tanning allows for a tanned appearance without exposing the skin to harmful ultraviolet radiation, which can trigger psoriasis flares in some individuals.
- Uneven Absorption: Psoriasis plaques often have a thicker, rougher texture than normal skin. This can lead to uneven absorption of the tanning solution, resulting in darker pigmentation on the plaques and potentially accentuating their appearance rather than concealing them.
- Irritation and Sensitivity: The chemicals in spray tanning solutions, especially fragrance and alcohol, can irritate sensitive skin, potentially worsening psoriasis symptoms.
Achieving Optimal Results: A Step-by-Step Guide
If considering spray tanning, individuals with psoriasis should follow these steps to minimize potential problems and maximize the likelihood of a satisfactory outcome:
- Consult with a Dermatologist: Before any treatment, discuss the possibility of spray tanning with a dermatologist to ensure it won’t interfere with prescribed medications or exacerbate the condition.
- Patch Test: Perform a small patch test on an unaffected area of skin at least 24 hours before a full-body spray tan to check for allergic reactions or sensitivity.
- Exfoliate Gently: Exfoliate gently several days before the appointment to remove dead skin cells and create a smoother surface. Avoid harsh scrubs or chemicals that could irritate the psoriasis.
- Moisturize Regularly: Keep the skin well-moisturized in the days leading up to the appointment.
- Communicate with the Technician: Inform the spray tan technician about your psoriasis and any areas of particular concern.
- Choose a Gentle Formula: Opt for a spray tanning solution that is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and specifically designed for sensitive skin.
- Post-Tan Care: Avoid showering or sweating excessively for at least 4-6 hours after the spray tan. Moisturize twice daily to prolong the tan and keep the skin hydrated.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-Exfoliation: Harsh scrubbing can aggravate psoriasis plaques and lead to uneven tanning.
- Using Irritating Products: Products containing alcohol, fragrance, or harsh chemicals can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
- Ignoring Post-Tan Care: Failing to moisturize adequately can result in a patchy or uneven tan.
- Expecting Miraculous Results: Remember that a spray tan is a temporary cosmetic solution and may not completely conceal psoriasis patches.
- Frequent Spray Tanning: Overuse of spray tanning solutions can dry out the skin and potentially irritate psoriasis.
Alternative Camouflage Techniques
Beyond spray tanning, other cosmetic techniques can help camouflage psoriasis symptoms:
- Medical Concealers: Specially formulated concealers designed for sensitive skin can effectively cover redness and scaling.
- Tinted Moisturizers: These provide light coverage while hydrating the skin.
- Clothing: Choosing clothing that covers affected areas can offer a simple and effective solution.
Psoriasis and Tanning Beds
It is crucially important to state that while controlled phototherapy (UVB and UVA light) is a legitimate medical treatment for psoriasis performed under the guidance of a dermatologist, the unregulated and often intense UV exposure from commercial tanning beds is generally not recommended for individuals with psoriasis. Tanning beds dramatically increase the risk of skin cancer and can potentially worsen psoriasis in some individuals. Any light-based therapy for psoriasis should be discussed with and supervised by a qualified dermatologist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Spray Tanning Cover Psoriasis completely?
No, a spray tan generally doesn’t completely cover psoriasis. It can reduce the visual contrast and make plaques less noticeable, but it’s unlikely to eliminate their appearance entirely. The effectiveness depends on the severity of the psoriasis, the color of the spray tan, and individual skin characteristics.
Can spray tanning make my psoriasis worse?
Yes, potentially. The chemicals in some spray tanning solutions, such as fragrance and alcohol, can irritate sensitive skin and trigger a psoriasis flare-up. That’s why a patch test and careful product selection are crucial.
What ingredients should I avoid in a spray tan solution if I have psoriasis?
Avoid products containing alcohol, fragrance, parabens, and harsh preservatives. Look for solutions specifically marketed as hypoallergenic and designed for sensitive skin.
Is it safe to get a spray tan while using topical psoriasis medications?
It’s best to consult with a dermatologist before getting a spray tan while using topical medications. Some medications can increase skin sensitivity, potentially leading to irritation or an adverse reaction to the tanning solution.
How soon after applying topical steroids can I get a spray tan?
Allow at least 24 hours after applying topical steroids before getting a spray tan. This will minimize the risk of irritation or interaction between the medication and the tanning solution.
Can I spray tan my scalp if I have scalp psoriasis?
It’s generally not recommended to spray tan the scalp, especially if you have scalp psoriasis. The hair can block the tanning solution, leading to an uneven result, and the chemicals can irritate the scalp.
What kind of exfoliation should I do before a spray tan if I have psoriasis?
Use a very gentle, non-abrasive exfoliant a few days before the spray tan. Avoid harsh scrubs or chemical peels, as these can irritate psoriasis plaques. Lightly buffing the skin with a soft washcloth can be sufficient.
How long will a spray tan last on psoriasis-affected skin?
A spray tan typically lasts for 5-7 days on healthy skin, but it may fade more quickly on psoriasis-affected areas due to the faster skin cell turnover.
Will a spray tan even out the skin tone on my psoriasis patches?
A spray tan may help to even out the skin tone, but it’s not guaranteed. The tanning solution may absorb differently into psoriasis plaques, resulting in an uneven color.
What can I do to make my spray tan last longer if I have psoriasis?
Moisturize twice daily with a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer. Avoid long, hot showers and harsh soaps. Pat the skin dry instead of rubbing.
Are there any professional spray tan services specifically for people with psoriasis?
Some salons may have experience working with clients who have psoriasis. It’s important to communicate your condition to the technician and ask about their experience with sensitive skin. Choose salons that use high-quality, gentle tanning solutions.
Does Spray Tanning Cover Psoriasis better than self-tanner?
In general, the results are similar. Both can camouflage psoriasis, but require careful application and product selection to avoid irritation. A spray tan, applied by a professional, often provides a more even and consistent finish, especially for hard-to-reach areas. Self-tanners offer convenience but require careful application to prevent streaking and uneven coverage. Ultimately, the best option depends on personal preference and skin sensitivity.