Sun-kissed skin remains a coveted beauty trend, many turn to fake tan products to achieve that bronzed glow without the risks of excessive sun exposure. However, for those who enjoy a dip in chlorinated pools or have regular exposure to chlorine, a common concern arises: does chlorine make tan go green?
Yes, chlorine can make fake tan go green due to the interaction between the chemicals in chlorine and the ingredients in fake tan products. The best way to prevent the reaction is by following proper pre-tan preparations.
In this blog post, I will discuss the effect of chlorine on tanned skin, the causes of green tint after exposure to chlorine, and tips to prevent fake tan from turning green.
Why Does Fake Tan Turn Green in Chlorinated Water?
Fake tan can turn green in chlorinated water due to a chemical reaction between the ingredients in the tan product and the chlorine in the water. Here are some key reasons why this reaction occurs:
1. Due to oxidation
Chlorine is a strong oxidizing agent, which means it has the ability to react with and break down other substances it comes into contact with. When chlorine reacts with the active ingredient in fake tan, which is usually DHA (dihydroxyacetone), it can alter the chemical structure of DHA. This alteration can result in a greenish tint on the skin.
2. Because of the impurities in Chlorine
Chlorine used in pools often contains impurities and additives, such as copper or other metals, which can intensify the reaction with fake tan products. Copper, in particular, is known to create a greenish discoloration when it reacts with DHA.
3. pH levels
Chlorine can affect the pH balance of the skin. Fake tan products work best in a slightly acidic environment, but the high pH of chlorinated water can disrupt this balance, causing the tan to develop an undesirable green hue.
4. Exposure duration
The longer you spend in chlorinated water, the greater the chance of the reaction between chlorine and fake tan occurring. Prolonged exposure can intensify the green tint on the skin.
5. Type of fake tan you used
Different fake tan products may contain various additives and formulations, and some may be more prone to turning green when exposed to chlorine. The type and quality of the fake tan product used can impact the severity of the reaction.
Will Chlorine Exposure Damage My Skin?
Although chlorine can lead to discoloration after interacting with fake tan, it won’t necessarily damage your skin unless you have prolonged or repeated exposure to chlorine. Prolonged exposure to chlorine will strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation.
To minimize the potential damage, rinse off chlorine after swimming, apply moisturizer to rehydrate the skin, and consider using a pre-swim lotion to act as a barrier between your skin and the chlorine.
Effects of Chlorine on Tanned Skin
Chlorine can have various effects on tanned skin, particularly if the tan is a fake tan created using self-tanning products:
1. It discolors the skin
Chlorine can react with the active ingredients in fake tan products, such as dihydroxyacetone (DHA), leading to a greenish or grayish tint on the skin. This discoloration can be especially noticeable on tanned skin and is a common issue when swimming in chlorinated water.
2. Causes drying and Irritation
Chlorine is known for its ability to strip the skin of natural oils, which can lead to dryness and potential irritation. Tanned skin is often more susceptible to dryness, so chlorine exposure can exacerbate this effect, making the skin feel tight and uncomfortable.
3. Tan fades quickly
Chlorine exposure can cause your fake tan to fade more quickly than usual. The chemical reaction between chlorine and the tan product can break down the tan, resulting in a shorter-lasting tan.
4. Uneven Tanning
Chlorine can also lead to uneven tanning, with some areas of the skin losing their tan more rapidly than others. This can result in a patchy or splotchy appearance.
Tips to Prevent Fake Tan from Turning Green in Chlorine
Below are some tips to prevent your fake tan from turning green when exposed to chlorine:
1. Exfoliation and prep
Before applying fake tan, exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and ensure an even application. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or mitt to create a smooth canvas for the tan.
2. Proper application
Apply fake tan evenly and sparingly. Using too much product or applying it too thickly can make it more susceptible to chlorine reactions. Follow the instructions on the product carefully.
3. Wait before swimming
Allow your fake tan to fully develop and set on your skin before swimming in a chlorinated pool. Most fake tan products require several hours to develop, so give it ample time.
4. Rinse after swimming
After swimming in a chlorinated pool, rinse your skin thoroughly with fresh water to remove chlorine residue. This helps minimize the chances of a reaction between chlorine and the fake tan.
5. Use tan-extending products
Consider using products specifically designed to extend the life of your fake tan. These can help maintain your tan’s color and reduce the risk of it turning green in chlorinated water.
6. Alternative swimming options
If possible, opt for swimming in saltwater pools or natural bodies of water instead of chlorinated pools. These alternatives are less likely to cause discoloration of your fake tan.
7. Top-up and maintenance
After swimming, you may need to touch up your tan in areas where it has faded or turned green. Have some fake tan handy to maintain a consistent appearance.
8. Choose the right fake tan product
Some fake tan formulations are less prone to reacting with chlorine. Research and choose products known for their chlorine resistance.
9. Avoid chlorine on fresh tan
Try to avoid chlorine exposure in the first 24-48 hours after applying fake tan. This gives the tan time to set and reduces the risk of a chemical reaction.
How long will it take for my tanned skin to return to normal after chlorine exposure
It will take 2 to 7 days for the greenish tint to completely fade. However, individual skin types and the specific fake tan product used can also influence the recovery time. To expedite the process, maintain good skincare practices and avoid further chlorine exposure.
Conclusion
The interaction between chlorine and tanned skin, particularly fake tan, can lead to a range of effects, including discoloration, drying, fading, and uneven tanning.
To minimize these effects and maintain a beautiful tan, follow best practices such as rinsing off chlorine after swimming, exfoliating and moisturizing regularly, and choosing high-quality, chlorine-resistant fake tan products.
