To use or not to use a barrier cream before a spray tan?
If you’re preparing for a spray tan, you’ve probably heard about using barrier cream. This handy product is often recommended to protect certain areas of your skin from overdeveloping, but whether you actually need it depends on a variety of factors—your skin type, the spray tan solution being used, and your spray tan artist’s technique. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about barrier cream so you can walk into your appointment fully prepared.
What Is Barrier Cream?
Barrier cream is a protective lotion applied to areas that tend to absorb more tanning solution than others. Common spots include:
Hands and fingers (especially knuckles and cuticles)
Feet and toes
Knees
Elbows
These areas often have thicker, drier skin that can soak up more product than necessary, leading to a patchy or overly dark result. Barrier cream acts as a shield, reducing absorption and helping create a smooth, natural finish.
Why Every Spray Tan Is Different
Spray tans are not one-size-fits-all, and neither is the need for a barrier cream. The type of solution used—its formulation, DHA (the active ingredient in tanning solutions) level, and even the application method—can influence whether barrier cream is needed.
Some high-quality solutions are designed to be forgiving, providing even results without requiring much intervention. On the other hand, rapid-developing or highly pigmented solutions may require a bit more preparation, especially in areas prone to uneven absorption.
The Pros and Cons of Using Barrier Cream
Pros
Reduces Overdevelopment
It helps prevent dark, streaky, or orange patches in tricky areas like knuckles, elbows, and ankles.Achieves a More Natural Look
Properly applied, barrier cream can ensure your tan looks even and smooth from head to toe.Minimizes Staining
Protects your palms, nails, and cuticles from accidentally picking up color during application.
Cons
Can Cause Uneven Results if Overapplied
Using too much barrier cream might block the solution entirely, leaving noticeable light patches.Not Always Necessary
If your skin is well-hydrated and the solution is tailored to your needs, you may not need barrier cream at all.Extra Prep Step
For some, the added step of applying barrier cream feels unnecessary if their tan usually turns out well without it.
How to Prepare for Your Spray Tan Appointment
To get the best results, make sure you arrive at your appointment with clean, product-free skin. Avoid using any moisturizers, oils, makeup, deodorant, or perfumes beforehand, as these can interfere with the tanning solution and cause streaking or uneven development. You can read more about preparing your skin in our blog, How to ensure an even tan.
When you meet with your spray tan artist, let them know if you’re unsure about using a barrier cream. They’ll assess your skin and the solution they’re using, then guide you through whether you need it and how to apply it properly.
Tips for Applying Barrier Cream (If Recommended)
If your spray tan artist suggests using barrier cream, follow these steps:
Focus on Key Areas
Apply a light layer to areas like your hands, feet, knees, and elbows. Your artist will help identify any additional spots that might need protection.Don’t Overdo It
Use just enough to create a light barrier. A thick application could completely block the tan in those areas, creating uneven results.Blend Carefully
Blend the cream slightly outward from the application area to create a seamless transition between protected and tanned skin.
When Might You Skip Barrier Cream?
Some spray tan solutions are formulated to be low-maintenance and even out naturally without needing extra protection. If you regularly moisturize and exfoliate before your tan and don’t notice issues in dry areas, you might not need a barrier cream. Your spray tan artist is the best person to guide you—every session and solution is unique, and their expertise can help you achieve the perfect glow.
Choosing the Right Barrier Cream
If you’re tanning at home or want to ensure you have the best product on hand, look for a barrier cream designed specifically for spray tans. Key features include:
Non-greasy formulas for easy application.
pH-balanced ingredients that work well with tanning solutions.
Clear or lightly tinted options so you can see where you’ve applied it.
Final Thoughts
Using a barrier cream can enhance your spray tan by preventing patchy or uneven results in sensitive areas, but it’s not always necessary. The key is preparation and communication. Arrive with clean, product-free skin, and talk openly with your spray tan artist about your skin’s needs and whether barrier cream is right for you. With their guidance, you’ll achieve a flawless, confidence-boosting glow every time.
Have questions about your next spray tan? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at aussie glows and we’ll be happy to help!
