Do I moisturize after self tanning?

Author: Alfonzo Welch  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Once you've washed off the colour guide and waited at least 8 hours, you can apply your favourite moisturiser to your entire body. Moisturising the skin everyday is the key to a longer lasting fake tan as it prevents the tan from cracking and flaking.

Do you moisturize after fake tan?

16. DON'T moisturise after the initial rinse off of fake tan residue. This is a biggie. The product is still developing. Adding moisturiser at this point will dilute the tan's development. 17. DO moisturise like a boss every time after that to look after your tan investment.

What not to do after self tanning?

It is important not to wear tight clothing after applying fake tan as this can cause your tan to rub off or cause marks. This can make self-tanning in the morning more difficult as you must wear dark, loose clothing to avoid any transfer and you can't use deodorant or perfume.

Should I moisturize after tanning?

The initial exposure to UV light can leave your skin a bit shocked, so it's crucial to give it some extra TLC. Hydrate your skin with a good quality, fragrance-free moisturizer right after your session and throughout the next few days. Also, remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate from the inside out.

What to put on after fake tanning?

Moisturize First: A hydrated skin ensures your tan looks even and lasts longer. After your self-tanner has completely dried and developed, apply a lightweight moisturizer. It not only makes your tan look more radiant but also creates a smooth base for your makeup.

Moisturizing Before Self Tanning

What is the best thing to put on your skin after tanning?

Moisturize

Apply moisturizer as soon as you can, immediately after sun exposure. Then apply it again after a cool shower. A heavier moisturizer or specialty cream for sun-damaged skin will help rehydrate and rejuvenate your skin.

How long should I wait to put clothes on after self tanning?

After applying your self-tanner, you'll need to give the product time to dry and settle on your skin. Do not get dressed right away, wrap yourself in a towel, or lie down. Wait about 10 to 15 minutes before putting clothes on—and even then, wear loose-fitting attire.

What is the best lotion to use after self-tanner?

LOTIONS Avoid any oils or lotions that use mineral oil (petroleum), baby oil, coconut oil, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (which is found in most body washes). I have found the best lotions to use are Aveeno, Cetaphil, Hempz, and CeraVe.

What not to do after tanning in the sun?

It's never a good idea to expose already damaged skin to more sun. So, protect your skin from further sun exposure, because after sunbathing your skin can be sensitive, some even develop sun allergies. To prevent further skin irritation, you should also avoid shaving or waxing after sunbathing.

Does moisturiser stop fake tan developing?

Applying a moisturiser may interfere with the flawless result you so perfectly applied. 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.

How to get the best results from self-tanner?

Follow these steps:
  1. Exfoliate. Use a washcloth to exfoliate the skin prior to applying a self-tanner. ...
  2. Dry your skin. ...
  3. Apply in sections. ...
  4. Wash your hands after each section. ...
  5. Blend at your wrists and ankles. ...
  6. Dilute over your joints. ...
  7. Give your skin time to dry. ...
  8. Apply sunscreen every day.

What should I do the day after fake tanning?

Spray Tan Aftercare: 24 Hours After Your Tan
  1. WEAR LOOSE-FITTING CLOTHING. After your tan, you should wear loose-fitting clothing so your tan doesn't rub off or look uneven. ...
  2. GO COMMANDO. ...
  3. STAY DRY. ...
  4. WAIT TO SHOWER. ...
  5. MOISTURIZE AFTER THE SHOWER. ...
  6. AVOID MAKEUP.

What is the aftercare of a fake tan?

For the 24 hours following your Spray Tan it is suggested to avoid ALL swimming, saunas and vigorous exercise as sweating can inhibit the development of your tan. Avoid soaking in the bath or long hot showers as this will shorten the life of your tan.

How long should I wait to moisturize after a spray tan?

Only rinse until you see the water is clear, then stop (this should only take a few minutes) - and pat dry. DO NOT MOISTURIZE UNTIL THE TAN HAS TOTALLY DEVELOPED. We recommend you wait at least 12 hours after receiving your tan, before moisturizing to ensure it has fully developed. Continue to avoid bar soaps.

How long after self tanning can I sit down?

Now that your self-tanner is on, it's time to take care of it. Be patient and let it dry fully before you put on clothes, jump into bed, sit on the couch, etc. Essentially, leave it alone until it sinks in. This could take around 20 minutes.

Should you moisturize after self tanning?

Regardless of when the colour guide is washed off, we suggest not moisturising until after the 8 hour mark.

How to sleep with fake tan on?

We would recommend if sleeping in fake tan that you invest in tanning sheets (be it a fancy 'fake tan' specific sheets, old sheets you're not fussed about or a darker shade that doesn't show the tell-tale fake tan remnants so easily) and make sure you wear loose, comfy and fake tan friendly sleepwear to bed.

Can I apply self-tanner two days in a row?

It's not necessary to apply self tanner every single day. Your tan will stay perfectly in tact after two days, but applying every other day is perfect to keep it up!

Should I put lotion on after I tan?

After any tanning session, the skin often loses moisture, leaving it vulnerable to dryness and peeling. Hydration is the cornerstone of post-tanning care. Moisturizing your skin not only replenishes lost moisture but also helps to maintain your tan for a more extended period of time.

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.

What body wash is best after self tanning?

Aveevo Daily Moisturizing body wash or Cetaphil Daily Nourishing body wash. All of these body washes have great ingredients in them that will help to preserve not only your tan, but keep your skin healthy. All of these moisturizers should be good for any skin type.

What not to wear after self tanning?

Wear dark loose clothing; tight clothing or underwear may cause marks. Wear loose fitting shoes. Shower lightly in cold – lukewarm water for 45 seconds ONLY after your desired development time. Use plain water, don't use shower gels, scrubs, shampoos or loofah during the first 24 hours after your treatment.

Why does fake tan not stick to my legs?

Is there any residue left on your calves from products like moisturiser, shaving foam or body oil? All these cosmetic products act as a barrier to fake tan and can prevent the skin from 'grabbing' colour.

Does layering fake tan make it darker?

**Risk of Over-Tanning**: Applying a second layer can lead to a much darker and potentially unnatural appearance. This may result in an uneven or patchy finish, especially in areas where the product tends to gather.

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