Self-tanners allow a tan appearance without sun exposure. But their use raises an important question: do they affect the skin’s natural tanning process? This article explains whether self-tanners interfere with natural tanning and prevent the skin from tanning.
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Does self-tanner prevent UV-induced tanning?
Summary
Published June 27, 2025,
updated on June 27, 2025,
by
Jamal, PhD, Doctor of human pathology and infectious diseases
—
4 min read
Self-tanner, in brief.
A self-tanner is a topical formula that temporarily colors the skin without exposure to ultraviolet rays. It comes in various forms (serum, lotion, spray, foam, wipe) and can be applied to the face or body. Unlike natural tanning, this coloration is purely chemical and does not confer any protective mechanism to the skin.
How does a self-tanner work?
Most self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, a plant-derived sugar. When applied to skin, DHA reacts with amino acids in the stratum corneum, the outermost epidermal layer. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, produces compounds called melanoidins that give skin a brown tint. Contrary to initial assumptions, this coloration is neither related to melanin, nor to melanocyte metabolism, and it does not penetrate deeper epidermal layers. It is purely cosmetic and temporary, fading as cell renewal occurs within one week.
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Does self-tanner inhibit natural tanning?
The tan is abiological defense mechanism against UV. When skin is exposed to sunlight, melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis produce melanin, a pigment that absorbs UV to limit DNA damage through melanogenesis.
A self-tanning product does not provide a physical or chemical barrier to UV; it neither filters nor absorbs solar rays.
Even though self-tanner colors the skin’s surface, UV rays continue to penetrate the epidermis and stimulate melanin production. Natural tanning is therefore not prevented by applying a self-tanner. However, self-tanner does not disrupt the skin’s biological tanning ability but can create a false sense of security. Tanned skin gives the illusion of protection, which can lead to a reduction in photoprotection behaviors.
A study of 398 Australian adolescents aged 12 to 18 found that those who used self-tanners were less likely to wear a hat, cover up with long clothing, or avoid prolonged sun exposure. This behavioral lapse raises the risk of sunburn and, in the long term, skin cancer. It is crucial to note that self-tanners do not replace sunscreen or protective clothing.
Key points to retain.
Self-tanning products do not block melanin production and do not prevent natural tanning.
Self-tanners do not protect the skin from UV rays, despite the tint they apply to the epidermis.
Self-tanners can give a false sense of security, reducing sun-protective behaviors.
Self-tanners cannot replace sunscreen.
Sources
DRAELOS Z. D. Self-tanning lotions: are they a healthy way to achieve a tan? American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2002).
IVERSON D. & al. Do Australian adolescent female fake tan (sunless tan) users practice better sun-protection behaviours than non-users? Health Education Journal (2012).
HERLYN M. & al. Crosstalk in skin: melanocytes, keratinocytes, stem cells and melanoma. Journal of Cell Communication and Signaling (2016).
ASKARIAN-AMIRI M. E. & al. Signaling pathways in melanogenesis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2016).
MARTINI M.-C. Autobronzants et bronzants artificiels. Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie (2017).
MAHÉ E. & al. Adolescents et bronzage artificiel : évolution des comportements entre 2011 et 2016. Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie (2017).
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