Spray Tan vs Sunbeds: What’s the Difference?

If you love having a bronzed glow, you may have wondered whether you should book a professional spray tan or use a sunbed.

Although both can change the appearance of your skin colour, spray tanning and sunbed tanning work in completely different ways.

A spray tan creates temporary colour on the outermost layer of the skin without UV exposure, while a sunbed uses ultraviolet (UV) radiation to stimulate tanning.

So, what's the difference and what should you know before choosing how to get your glow?

How Does a Spray Tan Work?

A professional spray tan uses a tanning solution containing DHA (dihydroxyacetone).

DHA interacts with the outermost layer of your skin to temporarily darken its appearance, creating the look of a tan. The colour gradually fades as those surface skin cells naturally shed.

Importantly, a spray tan does not expose your skin to UV radiation in order to create its colour.

This means you can achieve a bronzed appearance without deliberately exposing your skin to the UV radiation associated with sunbeds.

How Does a Sunbed Work?

A sunbed uses UV radiation to darken the skin.

Unlike a spray tan, the colour produced by a sunbed is the result of your skin responding to UV exposure.

The HSE advises people not to use sunbeds, explaining that UV radiation from sunbeds can damage skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunbeds can also contribute to premature skin ageing, including wrinkles and pigmentation.

The World Health Organization also advises avoiding artificial tanning devices because of their association with skin cancer risk.

Spray Tan vs Sunbed: The Main Differences

The key difference is simple:

A spray tan gives you the appearance of a tan without using UV radiation. A

sunbed creates a tan through UV exposure.

Is a Spray Tan Safer Than a Sunbed?

When it comes specifically to UV exposure, a spray tan and a sunbed are not equivalent.

A spray tan doesn't require UV exposure to create its colour, whereas sunbeds expose your skin to UV radiation.

The HSE states that there is no safe limit of UV exposure from sunbeds and advises against their use.

However, it's important to remember that a spray tan isn't a form of sun protection.

A spray tan gives your skin colour, but it does not protect your skin from UV radiation. You still need appropriate sun protection when you're outdoors, including sunscreen, clothing and shade.

Does a Spray Tan Protect You From the Sun?

No.

This is one of the most important things to remember.

Even if you have a deep spray tan, your skin can still be damaged by UV radiation.

A spray tan should never be considered a replacement for sunscreen or other sun protection measures.

If you're going on holiday after your spray tan, continue to use sunscreen and follow normal sun safety advice.

Can a Spray Tan Look Natural?

Absolutely.

The key is choosing a shade that complements your natural skin tone rather than simply choosing the darkest option.

At Haus of Beauty, I'll consider your natural colouring, the occasion and the result you're hoping to achieve when choosing your spray tan shade.

If you're unsure which shade is right for you, read my guide:

[How to Choose the Right Spray Tan Shade]

Will I Turn Orange From a Spray Tan?

This is one of the most common concerns people have before their first spray tan.

A professional spray tan should be selected and applied with your natural colouring and desired result in mind.

Your preparation and aftercare can also affect how your tan develops and fades.

For more information, read:

[10 Spray Tan Mistakes to Avoid]

How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?

A spray tan typically lasts around 5–7 days, although this varies from person to person.

Your skin, preparation, aftercare and lifestyle can all influence how long your tan lasts.

Keeping your skin moisturised and being gentle with your skin can help your tan fade more evenly.

For more tips, read:

[How to Make Your Spray Tan Last Longer]

Is a Spray Tan Good Before a Holiday?

A spray tan can be a great way to give yourself some colour before a holiday, especially if you want to feel more confident in swimwear.

However, remember that a spray tan doesn't protect your skin from the sun.

If you're heading somewhere sunny, continue using sunscreen and protecting your skin from UV exposure.

What About Vitamin D?

You may have heard people say that sunbeds can help with vitamin D.

The HSE advises that sunbeds are not a safe or reliable way to obtain vitamin D.

If you're concerned about your vitamin D levels, speak with your GP or another

healthcare professional about appropriate ways to maintain them.

Which Option Gives You a Tan Without UV Exposure?

If your goal is simply to have the appearance of a bronzed tan without deliberately exposing your skin to UV radiation, a professional spray tan is one option.

It allows you to choose a shade and create a temporary tan without using UV radiation to produce the colour.

At Haus of Beauty, I can help you choose a shade that complements your natural skin tone and gives you the result you're looking for.

The Bottom Line

Spray tans and sunbeds may both create the appearance of tanned skin, but they work in very different ways.

A spray tan uses a tanning solution to temporarily colour the outermost layer of the skin.

A sunbed uses UV radiation to produce a tan.

The HSE advises against sunbed use because of the risks associated with UV exposure, including skin damage and increased skin-cancer risk.

If you simply want a bronzed appearance, a professional spray tan gives you the option of achieving that look without deliberately exposing your skin to UV radiation.

And remember: a spray tan is not sunscreen. Always protect your skin when you're outdoors.

Ready for Your Spray Tan?

At Haus of Beauty in Killumney, Ovens, Cork, I offer professional spray tanning using a selection of trusted professional tanning brands to create a shade that works for each individual client.

Whether you're getting ready for a holiday, wedding, special occasion or simply want to enjoy a gorgeous glow, I'll help you choose a result that enhances your natural beauty.

Book your spray tan at Haus of Beauty and let's create your perfect glow.

Call or whatsapp 0868326710