You likely already know that hydrated skin is happy skin, but moisturizing after a spray tan has a few more caveats than moisturizing regularly. Should you moisturize after a spray tan? If so, how often? What moisturizer should you use?
These are all great questions and we're here to answer them! We'll share everything you need to know about moisturizing after a spray tan, as well as other spray tan tips to help make your tan look great and last longer.
Moisturizing After a Spray Tan: What You Need to Know
Properly moisturizing after a spray tan can help your tan last longer, look better, and will improve the health of your skin. But, there are a few things to keep in mind. Moisturizing after a spray tan is a little different than your normal routine. It's important to know when you should moisturize and the best after-tan moisturizers.
WHEN SHOULD YOU MOISTURIZE AFTER A SPRAY TAN?
Because the tanning solution takes a little while to develop, you shouldn't start moisturizing until after your first shower, which should be at least eight hours after your tan but no more than 24 hours later. If you moisturize before your first shower, you may run the risk of streaking your spray tan (and no one wants to have a zebra tan!).
After you moisturize that first time, you should begin to moisturize regularly to keep your skin hydrated. After day three, we suggest moisturizing at least two times a day. The best time to moisturize is right after a shower. That way, you lock in any extra moisture. Your skin will thank you!
BEST AFTER-TAN MOISTURIZERS
Now that you know when to moisturize after a spray tan, let's talk about what moisturizers to use and which ones to avoid. Moisturized skin will absorb the spray tan solution better and help you maintain your glow, but some lotions will actually strip your spray tan and cause more harm than good. We want to share some of those harmful ingredients and ingredients that will actually exfoliate your tan before you're ready.
Choosing a good after-tan moisturizer is key to helping you maintain your tan. Here are some of our favorites:
Maui Babe After Browning Tanning Lotion - This after-tan enhancer seals in your tan and prevents it from fading. It also moisturizes your skin natural ingredients including Macadamia Nut Oil and Aloe.
Vanilla Bean Daily Moisturizer by Custom Tan Co - This moisturizer provides intense 24-hour hydration and works to lock in your tan while protecting and revitalizing the health of your skin.
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Body Wash & Deep Moisturizing Lotion - This hydrating duo features a moisturizing body wash and lotion.
Vaseline Intensive Care Body Lotion, Cocoa Radiant - A bathroom cabinet staple featuring cocoa butter and glycerin for deep hydration.
Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion - Dermatologist recommended for nearly 60 years, fragrance-free and great for sensitive skin.
Hempz Pure Herbal Extracts - A tanning salon favorite using natural hemp seed oil to hydrate.
When moisturizing after a spray tan, these ingredients and products are your BFF:
Shea butter
Fragrance-free
Oil-free
Aloe-vera
Coconut oil
When it comes to moisturizing after a spray tan, less is usually more. Look for ingredient lists that are short and sweet. Bonus points if you can pronounce all the ingredients and know what they are!
AFTER-TAN MOISTURIZERS TO AVOID
Not all moisturizers are created equal. Some contain ingredients that actually dry out your skin, streak your spray tan, or exfoliate your tan before you're ready.
Here are some ingredients to avoid when moisturizing after a spray tan:
Mineral oil
Fragrances
Most essential oils
Anti-aging products
Toners
Hair removal products
Retin-a
Make-up removal products
Other Spray Tan Care Tips
In addition to moisturizing after a spray tan, there are many other spray tan care tips you can follow to extend the life of your tan.
BEFORE A SPRAY TAN
Shower at least 4 hours before your appointment.
Do all exfoliating, moisturizing, and shaving at least 4 hours before.
Complete all other beauty services at least 24 hours before your tan.
Arrive with clean, bare skin. No makeup, no lotions, no oils.
Bring dark, loose-fitting clothes and sandals for after your tan.
AFTER A SPRAY TAN
Wait at least four hours before showering and use warm water only.
Don't exfoliate until you're ready to say goodbye to your tan.
Moisturize with a mineral oil-free moisturizer twice a day.
Use lotions that are as natural and organic as possible.
Many people wonder whether or not moisturizing after a spray tan is a good idea and now you know the facts! Wait to moisturize until after your first shower, only use a moisturizer that's natural, organic, and won't strip your tan, and moisturize twice a day to lock in max moisture.
Ready to Glow at Home?
Want a tan that's as good for your skin as it looks? Be Bronze has you covered.
- Hydrating Face Mist (Self-Tanning Water) — lightweight, streak-free, and infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E & Rosehip Oil for skin that glows and feels amazing.
- BARE Non-Toxic Self-Tanner — our clean formula made with just 8 ingredients. No dyes, no parabens, no compromise.
Be You. Be Bold. Be Bronze™