Do and don'ts after spray tan?

Author: Miles Tremblay  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 29, 2025

You should avoid bathing and activities that make you sweat heavily for at least 4 hours following a spray tan. And because chlorine can quickly break down a spray tan, we suggest avoiding chlorinated swimming pools entirely.

What are the rules for after a spray tan?

Avoid wearing a bra, socks or other restrictive clothing immediately after your spray tan session. The looser fitting the better to avoid any streaking as the tan is developing. Refrain from showering as long as possible, 8-12 hours minimum, up to 24 hours, but overnight is best.

What is the best aftercare for a spray tan?

Try these suggestions to assist your skin in healing and adhering to proper spray tan aftercare:
  • Instead of long, hot showers, choose shorter, cooler ones.
  • Stay away from soaps with powerful ingredients that peel.
  • To moisturize your skin when shaving, use shaving cream.
  • Instead of scrubbing your skin dry, pat it.

What will ruin a spray tan?

Loofahs, washcloths, brushes, and body washes with microbeads are all going to hasten the tan's departure. Your first shower after your spray tan will likely result in a puddle of colored water around your drain, but this is normal. As you leave the shower, make sure to pat yourself dry with the towel, don't rub.

How long should I wait to put clothes on after spray tan?

Try your best to wear loose clothes to avoid water and sweating for 6-8hrs whilst the tan is developing on the skin before showering off the residue. The tan will continue developing for a further 12hrs your final developed colour of the tan is achieved after the full 24hrs.

HOW LONG DOES A SPRAY TAN OR SELF TAN LAST? | TIPS AND TRICKS BY A PRO SPRAY TAN ARTIST

How long after a spray tan can you shower?

You'll want to avoid showering for at least 4 hours after your spray tan.

Will clothes ruin my spray tan?

Tight clothes are a spray tan's biggest enemy. They can rub off the tan before it even has a chance to properly set into your skin, leading to patchy, uneven results that are far from the sun-kissed glow you were aiming for.

What are the negatives of spray tan?

For example, some people may be allergic to DHA, which can cause itching, redness, and swelling. In addition, other ingredients in the spray tan solution, such as fragrances or preservatives, may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

How to pee after a spray tan?

Please do not pee in the shower when you have an Airbrush Spray Tan, the ammonia in the urine will cause your tan to streak. Do not use any soap during your first rinse. Once out of the shower pat your skin dry, do not rub.

How to fix green armpits after spray tan?

The good news is that the discoloration is temporary and will fade as your spray tan naturally wears off. In the meantime, you can try gently scrubbing the area with soap and water or using a gentle exfoliating scrub to help speed up the fading process.

How should you sleep after a spray tan?

Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides: If possible, try to sleep on your back to minimize the amount of contact your tan has with the sheets. This can help prevent smudging and ensure your tan stays intact.

Can I shave 2 hours before spray tan?

Avoid shaving immediately before your spray tan session. Ideally, shave 24 hours prior to allow your skin to recover and avoid any potential irritation. Exfoliate gently: If you're shaving before tanning, gently exfoliate your skin using a mild scrub or exfoliating glove.

How do I make my spray tan last longer?

14 tips for making a spray tan last longer
  1. Choose your shade wisely. ...
  2. Think about timing. ...
  3. Buff, buff, buff away. ...
  4. Avoid a wax 24 hours before the spray tan. ...
  5. Think about your tanning location. ...
  6. Know what to do after a spray tan. ...
  7. Ditch deodorant, grab talc. ...
  8. Don't have a shower immediately.

How much do you tip for a $40 spray tan?

What is the etiquette for tipping? The beauty industry standard is 20%.

How to get the best spray tan results?

Exfoliate: This is the golden rule of spray tanning. Exfoliating your body a day before your session helps get rid of dead skin cells, which can otherwise lead to a patchy tan. Use a spray approved body scrub or an exfoliating mitt, paying special attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

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!

Can I sit on my couch after a spray tan?

Can You Sit After Spray Tanning? Yes! You just want to be sure there's a piece of clothing between you and any sticky surfaces - including your skin. That's why we recommend wearing long pants and a long shirt until your first shower.

What not to do the day of a spray tan?

That's why we turned to the spray tan pros to find out what you should resist doing in the days and hours leading up to your appointment.
  1. Don't use self-tanner. ...
  2. Don't take a hot shower. ...
  3. Don't wax or shave. ...
  4. Don't get a facial. ...
  5. Don't wear tight clothing. ...
  6. Don't get a laser treatment.

What's the soonest you can shower after a 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.

Can you ruin a spray tan?

The only way you can mess up a fake tan after the application and before your first shower is by sweating or by getting water on yourself. If you do this, you will end up with a spotty fake tan and if you sweat you will have streak and both of these are very hard to fix.

How long do spray tans last?

On average, a professional spray tan will last between 5 to 10 days, with some variation based on skin type, preparation, and aftercare. Here's a breakdown by skin type: Fair Skin: Fair skin can experience fading sooner, generally around 5 to 7 days.

How much do spray tans cost?

Like most beauty services, these tend to be more expensive in big cities and metropolitan areas compared to suburban areas. For example, Bennett says that at her salon (which has locations in Scottsdale, Arizona and Los Angeles, California), spray tans start at $55 in Arizona and $110 in Los Angeles.

What is the best self-tanner?

After extensive testing, we determined the highest rated self-tanner to be the St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse. It's an airy mousse that's easy to apply and blend and leaves you with a natural-looking glow. You can also customize the depth of color based on how long you leave it on your skin.

Does spray tan come off in the pool?

Although the chlorine found in swimming pools can lead to a faster 'fade-off' you can still enjoy a swim and protect your tan. The key is to take quick dips to reduce the time your tan is in contact with the water and to gently pat yourself dry once you've come out of the pool to avoid rubbing off any colour.

Can I wear a bra after a spray tan?

To ensure that your spray tan looks its best and lasts as long as possible, it's generally recommended to wait at least 8-12 hours before wearing a bra. During this time, it's best to wear loose, dark-colored clothing to minimize the risk of the tan transferring or rubbing off on your clothes.

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