Can I shower immediately after tanning?

Author: Destin Quitzon MD  |  Last update: Sunday, June 22, 2025

The answer is: it's best to wait. Showering immediately after can impact how your tan develops, especially since your skin is still reacting to the UV exposure. The water and products you use might strip away natural oils, potentially diminishing the tan you're trying to build.

How soon can you shower after tanning?

Showering after tanning is typically not recommended immediately, as it can wash away the tanning product and lead to uneven results. If you must shower, it's best to wait at least 4 to 8 hours after tanning, depending on the product used, to allow the tan to develop fully.

Will my tan get darker after I shower?

After sunbathing or using a tanning bed showering will not impact on the formation of the tan. Showering after applying a tanning lotion certainly will. The lotion needs a few hours to generate the tan and showering will remove the tanning agents.

How long should I leave my tan on before showering?

In general, it is recommended to wait at least 2 to 3 hours before showering after applying tanning lotion (2). However, it is always best to follow the instructions provided by the specific tanning lotion brand you are using. Tanning Mousse: Tanning mousses usually take longer to develop compared to tanning lotions.

What should you not do after tanning bed?

Resist the urge to shower immediately after using a sunbed, as it can negatively impact the final result of the tan.

When is the best time to shower after the tanning session?

What to do immediately after sun tanning?

After extensive sunbathing, it is advisable to first go into the shade or take a shower. Lukewarm water is best. Hot or cold water shocks the skin and can delay recovery. To avoid irritation, be careful not to rub the skin dry, but rather gently pat it dry with a towel.

How to avoid bunny tail in tanning bed?

☀️Tanning Tip Tuesday☀️ How to avoid the “bunny tail” or white spots on lower back or under your arms or sides: ✅ when using a lay down bed always reposition your body every few minutes to achieve an even tan. Switch from side to side and rest your arms behind your head .

How soon after tanning should you moisturize?

We want your tan to be 20/10 and unfortunately if moisturiser is applied it can leave blotches, marks and strip the tan in certain spots on the skin. Once you've washed off the colour guide and waited at least 8 hours, you can apply your favourite moisturiser to your entire body.

Is it OK to put tan on after a shower?

Ensure you're applying your preferred product to clean, dry skin after showering and 24 hours post-shaving. Keep your application light and you'll be good to go. Learn more about preparing for your self tan here.

Do you spray tan naked?

No, you don't have to be naked when you spray tan. While some people prefer to be nude to avoid tan lines, you have the option to wear whatever is most comfortable for you—like a swimsuit or underwear. During your tan, bronzer could transfer to your clothing but don't worry!

Will my sun tan go away if I shower?

Drinking plenty of water also keeps your skin hydrated and will allow it to stay tan longer. Excessive water exposure can make a tan fade faster, so avoid long baths or showers. Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils and moisture, so shower with lukewarm or cold water to keep your tan.

Do you tan better if you shower first?

Your perfect tan starts before you set foot in your local PBT. You'll want to shower, shave and exfoliate at least a day before your tan (preferably two!). We recommend using our Premier Collection® body washes as the perfect pre-tan prep. Exfoliating is especially important.

Does a tan show immediately?

A new Tel Aviv University study uncovers the science behind the mystery of why the body's tanning process does not occur immediately after sun exposure, but only after a few hours or even days.

What foods make you more tanned?

Papaya: Like carrots, orange fruits and vegetables, such as papaya, help to enhance your tan naturally thanks to its high beta-carotene levels. Melon: This refreshing fruit, rich in antioxidants and beta-carotenes will help you to keep your golden skin tone.

Can I wait 12 hours to shower after spray tan?

Patience is key when it comes to a spray tan. Give the tanning solution time to work its magic by waiting at least 8-12 hours before showering. Some tans may require longer development periods, so it's essential to follow your technician's specific recommendations.

Is 6 minutes on a sunbed too long?

During the early stages of building up a base tan we recommend tanning frequently (twice a week) for no more than 6 minutes regardless of your skin type (not including skin type 1).

Is it OK to shower after I tan?

It is not scientifically proven that showering right after tanning can have any negative effect on your skin. There is no reason for you to wait for several hours, or even the next morning, to shower. As long as you do not use a harsh soap or hot water, you can shower as soon as you want.

How long do you have to leave a tan on before you shower?

For a Light Tan: Leave the tan on for 2-4 hours, then shower. For a Medium Tan: Leave the tan on for 4-6 hours, then shower. For a Dark Tan: Leave the tan on for 6-8 hours, then shower.

Does a hair dryer speed up fake tan?

After You've Tanned

Use a hairdryer. Once you have the perfect coverage, grab your hairdryer to help it set. Be sure it's blowing cool air and move it along your body. Not only will this help the solution dry faster, but it'll also help to kick the tanning development process into overdrive.

What not to do after tanning?

Opt for Gentle, Moisturizing Products: Avoid harsh soaps and scrubs right after tanning. Instead, use a mild, hydrating body wash to prevent dryness and peeling, which can dull your tan. Pat Dry, Don't Rub: Vigorous towel drying can be too abrasive. Patting your skin dry is gentler and helps avoid exfoliating too much.

Why drink water when tanning?

Up your water

Staying hydrated is KEY to helping your tan last as long as possible and deepen future tan results. Dry skin not only slows down your tan results, but it also means that your skin will shed faster. The faster your skin sheds, the faster your tan will fade and become uneven or patchy.

Am I supposed to flip over in a tanning bed?

No, you don't need to flip over in a tanning bed. In fact, many people tan stomach-down because it's more comfortable that way. However, if you want an evenly distributed tan, then you should flip over halfway through your session so that both sides of your body get equal exposure to the UV rays.

How to avoid white spots when tanning?

Treatment options include:
  1. wearing sunscreen every day, covering all areas of skin exposed to the sun. ...
  2. avoiding spending too long in the sun.
  3. avoiding artificial tanning beds.
  4. dermabrasion, which physically removes the outer layers of skin.
  5. topical steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, available to purchase online.

How to get the darkest tan in a tanning bed?

How to Achieve a Darker Tan using Sunbeds and Tanning Beds.
  1. Exfoliate your Skin prior to Tanning. ...
  2. Keep your Skin Hydrated and Moisturised. ...
  3. Apply a sunbed cream or tanning accelerator prior tanning.
  4. Remove any kind of makeup and other cosmetic products. ...
  5. Choose foods that accelerate tanning.

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