Spray tans are a great way to get that sun-kissed glow without having to worry about UV rays. But after you’ve gone through the trouble of getting your spray tan done, it’s important to know how to properly take care of it.
The most important part? Knowing how to shower after spray tan? Keep on reading for the best tips on keeping your spray tan looking its best for as long as possible.
Understanding The Spray Tan Process
Spray tanning is a form of fake tanning that involves applying a tanning solution to the skin using a spray gun or misting booth.
The tanning solution contains an active ingredient called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin to create a bronze or golden glow.
The final color of your tan will depend on the DHA concentration and your skin type.
Spray tanning is a popular alternative to traditional tanning methods, such as sunbathing or tanning beds, which can damage your skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Spray tanning is a safe and effective way to achieve a bronzed glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays.
When getting a spray tan, it’s important to prepare your skin beforehand.
This includes exfoliating your skin to remove any dead skin cells, avoiding the use of moisturizers or oils, and wearing loose-fitting clothing to avoid rubbing off the tanning solution.
Make sure you always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tanning technician to ensure the best results.
Preparation Before Showering
Showering after a spray tan requires a bit of preparation to ensure that your tan stays looking flawless. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your post-tan shower:
- Wait at least 4–8 hours before showering: To give your spray tan enough time to develop, wait at least 4–8 hours before showering. This will help ensure that your tan lasts longer and looks more even.
- Exfoliate before your spray tan: Exfoliating your skin before your spray tan helps to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface for the tanning solution to adhere to. However, make sure to exfoliate at least 4 hours before your appointment to allow your pores to close back up.
- Use an oil-free exfoliator: When exfoliating, use an oil-free exfoliator made from organic ingredients. This will help prevent any oils from interfering with the application of your spray tan.
- Shave or wax before your spray tan: If you plan on removing body hair before your spray tan, make sure to do so at least 4 hours before your appointment. This will allow your pores to close up and prevent any unwanted streaks.
- Avoid showering with hot water: Hot water can cause your spray tan to fade faster, so it’s best to shower with lukewarm water instead.
How To Shower After Spray Tan?
To preserve your spray tan, it’s important to shower correctly. Start by waiting at least 8–12 hours after having a spray tan applied before taking a shower.
Before you get in the shower, make sure to wear flip-flops or open-toed shoes to protect your feet from water and slippery surfaces.
Once you’re ready to start washing, avoid using soap directly on skin—instead, use lukewarm water with a mild cleanser or body wash that contains no oils or exfoliating agents.
Take shorter showers rather than long, steaming hot ones as this can dehydrate the skin and cause fading of the tan.
Make sure not to rub any part of the skin when washing—just rinse gently with your hands or a soft cloth instead.
Turn down the temperature just slightly when rinsing at the end, so it’s still warm but not scalding hot as this can further strip away your tan’s color and hydration.
Once finished in the shower, lightly pat dry rather than rubbing roughly with a towel—do not scrub! When drying off outside the tub, allow yourself time to air dry without using any towels if possible.
However if needed, be sure to use one made from cotton that has been washed several times beforehand as any fabric other than 100% cotton may contribute towards premature fading of color due to excessive friction caused by its texture against skin.
Avoiding Common Spray Tan Mistakes
When it comes to showering after a spray tan, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid to make sure your tan lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you avoid these mistakes:
- Sweating: Avoid sweating excessively after your spray tan. Sweating can cause your tan to fade faster and can even cause streaks. If you need to work out or do any physical activity, try to do it before your spray tan or wait at least 24 hours after your spray tan to do it.
- Rubbing: Avoid rubbing your skin with a towel or anything else after your spray tan. This can cause your tan to fade faster and can even cause streaks. Instead, gently pat your skin dry with a towel.
- Alcohol, ammonia, and harsh chemicals: Avoid using products that contain alcohol, ammonia, or harsh chemicals on your skin after your spray tan. These ingredients can cause your tan to fade faster and can even cause streaks.
- Sulfates, mineral oil, alpha hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid: Avoid using products that contain sulfates, mineral oil, alpha hydroxy acids, or salicylic acid on your skin after your spray tan. These ingredients can cause your tan to fade faster and can even cause streaks.
- Body sprays, toners, and alcohols: Avoid using body sprays, toners, and alcohols on your skin after your spray tan. These products can cause your tan to fade faster and can even cause streaks.
- Oil-based lotion: Avoid using oil-based lotion on your skin after your spray tan. Oil-based lotion can cause your tan to fade faster and can even cause streaks.
Post Shower Care To Prolong Your Spray Tan
Now that you have showered, it’s important to take care of your skin to ensure your tan lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips for post-shower care:
- Moisturize: After showering, apply a lotion or moisturizer to your entire body. This will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out, which can cause your tan to fade faster. Be sure to use a lotion that is free of oils and fragrances, as these can cause your tan to become patchy or uneven.
- Avoid Excessive Moisture: While it’s important to keep your skin hydrated, it’s also important to avoid excessive moisture. This means avoiding activities that can cause you to sweat excessively, such as working out or spending time in a sauna. Excessive moisture can cause your tan to streak or become patchy.
- Waxing and Shaving: If you need to wax or shave after your spray tan, wait at least 24 hours before doing so. This will give your tan time to fully develop and prevent it from becoming patchy or uneven. When shaving, use a sharp razor and avoid pressing too hard on your skin.
- Elbows and Knees: These areas tend to be drier than other parts of your body, which can cause your tan to fade faster. To prevent this, apply a little extra lotion or moisturizer to your elbows and knees after showering.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water will help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. This will help your tan last longer and prevent it from becoming patchy or uneven.
- Drying: After showering, pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing it. Rubbing can cause your tan to streak or become patchy. Also, avoid using a hair dryer on your skin, as this can cause your tan to fade faster.
How To Make Your Spray Tan Last As Long As Possible?
You’ve invested time and money into getting that perfect spray tan, and now you want to make it last as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
Exfoliate Before Your Spray Tan
Exfoliating your skin before your spray tan is crucial. It helps remove dead skin cells, which can cause your tan to appear patchy and uneven.
However, be sure to exfoliate at least eight hours before your appointment to avoid lowering your skin’s pH level, which can result in a lighter, less pigmented tan.
Avoid Hot Baths and Showers
Hot baths and showers can strip your skin of its natural oils, which can cause your spray tan to fade faster. Instead, opt for lukewarm water when showering or bathing.
Be Careful When Shaving
Shaving can also cause your spray tan to fade faster, so be careful when shaving. Use a sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth.
Avoid using shaving creams or gels that contain harsh chemicals that can strip your tan.
Stay Away from Swimming Pools
Chlorine in swimming pools can cause your spray tan to fade faster.
If you must swim, wear a waterproof sunscreen to protect your skin from UV radiation, which can also cause your tan to fade.
Moisturize Daily
Moisturizing your skin daily can help extend the life of your spray tan. Use a moisturizer that is free of oils and fragrances and apply it to your skin twice a day.
How Soon Can I Shower After Getting a Spray Tan?
You should wait at least 4–8 hours before showering after getting a spray tan.
This allows the tan to fully develop and settle into your skin. Waiting too long to shower can cause the tan to fade unevenly or become blotchy.
When Should I Moisturize After My First Shower Following a Spray Tan?
It’s best to wait until after your first shower to moisturize your skin. After your first shower, gently pat your skin dry and apply a moisturizer to help lock in the color and keep your skin hydrated.
Can I Wait 24 Hours to Shower After a Spray Tan?
While it’s best to wait 4–8 hours to shower after a spray tan, you should not wait more than 24 hours. Waiting too long can cause the tan to fade unevenly or become blotchy.
Will My Spray Tan Look Better After I Shower?
Yes, your spray tan will likely look better after you shower. Showering helps to wash away any excess tanning solution and reveal the true color of your tan.
Just be sure to use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash and avoid scrubbing your skin too hard.
How Do I Wash Off the Excess Tan After It Develops?
Once your spray tan has fully developed, you may notice some excess tanning solution on your skin.
To remove it, gently exfoliate your skin with a washcloth or loofah. Be sure to use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash and avoid scrubbing your skin too hard.
Is It Okay to Wear a Bra After Getting a Spray Tan?
It’s best to avoid wearing a bra or tight-fitting clothing immediately after getting a spray tan, as this can cause the tan to rub off or become uneven.
Opt for loose-fitting clothing and avoid tight clothing that may cause friction against your skin.
What Temperature Should the Water Be when Showering After My Spray Tan?
Stick to warm water for the first shower after your spray tan. Avoid using hot water, as it may cause the bronzer to wash away prematurely and shorten the life of your tan.
Should I Exfoliate During My First Shower?
To keep your tan looking fabulous, avoid exfoliating during the first shower after your spray tan. Instead, gently wash your body using a simple body wash that doesn’t contain harsh ingredients or abrasives.
Exfoliating can fade the tan and wash away the bronzer before it has the chance to develop fully.
What Type of Body Wash Should I Use?
Opt for a fragrance-free, sulfate-free body wash to safeguard your sunless tan. Some shower gels and soaps can be too harsh on your skin and may strip the color off of your tan.
Can I Wash My Hair During My First Shower After a Spray Tan?
Yes, you can wash your hair. However, it’s crucial to avoid letting the shampoo or conditioner run down your body and wash the tan away while doing so.
Wash your hair separately or tilting your head back to keep the products from running onto your tan.
How Long Should I Stay in The Shower for My First Post-Spray Tan Rinse?
Keep it short and sweet. Limit your first shower after your spray tan to just 3 to 5 minutes. Prolonged exposure to water could potentially cause your tan to fade prematurely.
What Should I Avoid Using During the First Shower?
During your first shower after a tan, dodge exfoliating products, loofahs, and anything abrasive that could potentially fade your tan or wash off the bronzer.
You are also going to need to avoid using oil-based products, as they may also strip the tan from your skin.
How Can I Keep My Skin Moisturized to Ensure a Long-Lasting Tan?
After your first shower, it’s essential to moisturize your skin daily with a hydrating lotion or body butter. Also, consider using a tan extender to prolong the life of your spray tan.
When Can I Start Exfoliating After My Spray Tan?
Begin exfoliating gently 3–4 days after your spray tan to help maintain an even, natural-looking fade. Removing dead skin cells will promote a healthier and more flawless tan.
Summary
Spray tans are a great way to get a perfectly bronzed glow without exposing your skin to dangerous UV rays.
To ensure that you get the most out of your spray tan, it’s important to know how to properly take care of it.
This includes preparing your skin beforehand and knowing how to shower after a spray tan.
For best results, wait at least 4–8 hours after having a spray tan applied before showering with lukewarm water and using a mild cleanser or body wash.
Afterward, make sure to moisturize daily and avoid activities that may cause excessive sweating, such as working out or spending time in the sauna.
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