Tanning Self Care
How do you take care of a spray tan? Here are the aftercare questions people ask most often.
What is the best tanning self care routine? A simple aftercare routine keeps your tan looking even, clean, and fresh for longer.
How long should you wait before your first shower?
After your session, the DHA needs time to bond with the skin. Showering too soon can stop the colour from developing properly.
- Standard formula: Wait at least 8 hours before showering.
- Express / Dark formula: Wait 1–3 hours as directed by Jess.
- Your first shower rinses off the guide bronzer — don't panic, the real colour continues to develop underneath.
Why should you moisturise every day?
Hydrated skin holds colour longer. A gentle, oil-free moisturiser morning and night helps the tan fade evenly instead of patching.
- Use a tan-extending moisturiser for best results.
- Focus on dry-prone areas: knees, elbows, and ankles.
- Avoid oil-based moisturisers — they can strip the tan faster.
What kind of shower is best for a spray tan?
Lukewarm, short showers are best. Hot water, long baths, and harsh soaps fade the tan faster than necessary.
- Avoid hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms.
- Don't use loofahs or exfoliating mitts.
- Avoid sulphate-heavy body washes and harsh soaps.
- Use a gentle, pH-balanced body wash.
- Pat skin dry with a towel — never rub.
Can you swim after a spray tan?
You can, but chlorine and salt water fade the tan quickly. If you swim, protect the skin first and moisturise straight after.
What should you wear to bed after a spray tan?
Loose, dark pyjamas and old bed sheets are best. The guide colour can transfer until your first shower, so keep fabrics relaxed and dark.
What should you avoid after a spray tan?
- Perfume or alcohol-based products applied directly to skin
- Tight clothing or waistbands that rub (causes patchy fading)
- Waxing or shaving (removes the surface tan cells)
- AHA/BHA exfoliants in skincare routines
- Alcohol-based sunscreens (can strip colour)
What is the simplest way to keep your spray tan looking fresh?
Moisturise daily, shower gently, and avoid anything that dries or scrubs the skin. That is the easiest way to keep the colour even for longer.
Daily Aftercare Routine
- Moisturise morning and night with a gentle, oil-free lotion.
- Shower in lukewarm water, patting skin dry gently.
- Avoid exfoliants and harsh soaps for the duration of your tan.
- Stay hydrated — drinking water keeps skin supple and holds colour longer.
- Book your next session at around the 7–8 day mark for a seamless top-up!
How do you know when it is time for another tan?
If the colour is fading unevenly or starting to lose its depth, it is usually time to book again. Most clients refresh around day 7–8.