All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.
(And often for thelow costof under $20.)
Getty Images
We’ve long beenself-tan advocates.
What if you have acne?
Will it mess with your existing, meticulous skin-care regimen?
We told you it was confusing.
But don’t worry we chatted with the experts to get answers.
Ahead, we break down everything you better know to get a natural-looking facial tan.
But first, whatisself-tanner anyway?
What Is Self-Tanner?
The active ingredient in most self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), explains cosmetic chemistGinger King.
“It’s a very typical chemical reaction called the Maillard reaction.”
According to board-certified dermatologistMichele Green, MD, DHA reacts with the amino acids in skin.
The Maillard reaction pops up if the amino acid generates a pigment, called a melanoidin.
If self-tanner gets you to stay out of the sun’s damaging rays, that’s a good thing.
But, according to dermatologists, there is a downside.
“There is one serious consideration with self-tanners,” explains Dr. Green.
How to Choose a Self-Tanner
It all starts with the right self-tanner.
Before you add any old tanner to cart, consider your skin jot down.
Board-certified dermatologistHadley King, MD, agrees.
She says DHA is generally considered safe when used topically on the skin.
“But it should not be inhaled or applied to mucous membranes,” she adds.
Some self-tanners are oily and can clog pores and contribute to a buildup of bacteria," she says.
Dr. King agrees with Evans that those with acne-prone skin should look for products specifically noted to be noncomedogenic.
Plus, many even have ingredients that willhelpyour breakouts.
“Therefore, facial products are always formulated to be lighter.”
“This way, the product can sit and develop evenly overnight,” she explains.
Consider it a part of your evening skin-care routine.
Use an exfoliating cleanser or scrub either physical or chemical is fine.
(We loveNeutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming ScruborAcure Resurfacing Glycolic Unicorn Cleanser.)
We love the Acure Resurfacing Glycolic Unicorn Cleanser so much we added it to our May 2022Allure Beauty Boxlineup.
It’ll be a faster process than you think.
Customize the Look
Now comes the fun part: Contouring.
When you wake up to a developed tan the next morning, a subtle contour will be in place.
This will help avoid smudging while you sleep.
It’s not worth the risk to your sheets.
When you’re ready to refresh your color, exfoliate your face and begin the cycle again.
