How long should I wait to moisturize after tanning?

Author: Dr. Alana Purdy PhD  |  Last update: Saturday, July 12, 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.

What is the golden rule of tanning?

The professional indoor tanning industry promotes and teaches what we refer to as The Golden Rule of Smart Tanning: Don't ever sunburn. The indoor tanning industry has been more effective at teaching sunburn prevention than those who promote complete sun avoidance.

What should you not 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.

How long after tanning can I shower with lotion?

Tanning lotion also doesn't take long to develop and can be washed off after two to three hours. Meanwhile, mousse and gradual tanners take at least six to eight hours to develop. You can shower immediately after using a tanning oil since that's a natural tan and not a solution that can be washed off.

Does your tan last longer if you moisturize?

Another thing that you can do to make your tan last longer, is to moisturize every day. Hydrated skin will not exfoliate as much on its own. And that way the tan will stay even, and it will stay on your skin as long as possible.

My Science-Based Skincare Routine (easy & affordable)

How long after tanning can you moisturise?

Regardless of when you wash the colour guide off, we highly recommend you don't moisturise until the 8 hour mark.

How to get a golden tan?

To get a fast, beautiful and natural tan, see the following tips:
  1. Eat a diet rich in beta-carotenes. ...
  2. Exfoliate your skin. ...
  3. Sunbathe with sunscreen. ...
  4. Moisturize and nourish the skin. ...
  5. Avoid prolonged exposure. ...
  6. Change positions frequently. ...
  7. Take breaks. ...
  8. Use self-tanner.

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 .

Will my tan get darker after I shower?

Please note: the tan will continue to develop even after the shower, so do not be alarmed if you're not as tanned as you expect to be. The tan will continue to develop over the next 12-24 hours.

How to maximize tanning bed results?

How To Tan Quicker On Sunbeds
  1. Prepare Your Skin. Exfoliate Before Your Session. ...
  2. Adjust Your Tanning Time. Start with a Shorter Session. ...
  3. Use The Sunbed Correctly. Rotate Your Position. ...
  4. Maintain A Healthy Diet. Get The Right Nutrients. ...
  5. Avoid Things With Negative Effects. Remove Makeup and Cosmetics.

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 many tanning sessions to get a base tan?

It depends on many factors, including skin type, level of current tan, the tanning bed and skin care products you use. Typically, you'll see results after 3-5 sessions.

What is the best moisturizer after tanning?

Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and hydrating properties, Aloe Vera calms any redness or irritation, making it perfect for cooling sun-kissed skin. Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient locks in moisture and helps maintain skin's elasticity, keeping it supple and smooth after tanning.

How many times do I have to tan before I see results?

Your skin's tanning memory plays a significant role: First-time Tanners: It may take 5-7 sessions before noticeable results appear. Occasional Tanners: You might see results after 3-5 sessions. Regular Tanners: Can often maintain their tan with 1-2 sessions per week.

What is the tan rule?

The tangent rule, also known as the tangent-secant theorem, states that the tangent to a circle is perpendicular to the radius at the point of contact.

Does tanning alter DNA?

There is also strong evidence suggesting that exposure to UV rays, both UVA and UVB, can cause skin cancer. UV radiation may promote skin cancer in two different ways: By damaging the DNA in skin cells, causing the skin to grow abnormally and develop benign or malignant growths.

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.

How long after sun does the tan show?

After sun exposure, your skin begins to produce melanin, which is responsible for the tan. This process can take up to 48 hours to fully develop. So, don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Once your tan has developed, it will be at its peak for about two weeks.

Should I exfoliate after tanning?

Your skin needs consistent hydration to maintain a healthy tan. Don't Forget to Exfoliate: Exfoliating once a week will help remove dead skin cells and allow your moisturizer to penetrate deeper into your skin. Just be gentle to avoid scrubbing away your tan!

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.

What to do with hair in tanning bed?

If you have a full head of hair, spray suntan lotion at the roots or wear hats to protect your scalp against the sun.

Do you lay on your back or stomach in a tanning bed?

Best Positions to Get an Even Tan

Start Flat: Begin your session lying flat on your back. This position exposes the largest surface area of your body to UV rays.

How do the Kardashians get so tan?

Jimmy is a tanner to the stars - Kim Kardashian gets a Jimmy tan every week, and he works with the rest of the Jenner/Kardashian clan, Jennifer Aniston, and Heidi Klum. He tans the Victoria's Secret girls and Ariana Grande even took him on tour with her to keep her glow alive.

What makes you tan super fast?

Apply a sunbed cream or tanning accelerator prior tanning

All these products are specifically formulated in a way that enables you to tan faster and get a darker colour. Make sure you use products suitable for your skin type. If you are a beginner tanner, avoid some of those products such as bronzers and tingles .

Can blondes get tan?

Overall, finding the best tan as a blonde is about balance. The darker the tan, the more contrast it creates with your eyes and hair that can really make them stand out and contribute to that beach bombshell look. However, a tan that is too dark will look unflattering and unnatural.

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