Should I moisturize after fake tan?

Author: Earlene Strosin  |  Last update: Saturday, January 10, 2026

Properly moisturizing after a spray tan can help your tan last longer, look better, and will improve the health of your skin.

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.

Is it good to 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 not to do after fake tan?

Avoid Sweating and Water Activities

For the first 24 hours post-spray tan, stay away from activities that could make you sweat excessively or involve water exposure. This includes vigorous workouts, swimming, and even washing dishes without gloves. Sweat and water can dilute your tan, causing it to fade unevenly.

Does moisturiser stop you from tanning?

Moisturise

Hydrated skin will not only tan better but will also keep its colour for longer. Moisturise your skin twice daily to prepare your skin for the sunshine and get that long-lasting tan.

HOW TO: Take Care of a Spray Tan

Can I moisturize after fake tan?

Once you have washed off your fake tan moisturise your skin daily to increase the longevity of your tan. Dry, dehydrated skin will cause your dead skin cells to shed quicker, taking the fake tan you worked so hard for with it. Use an oil-free moisturiser as oil can break down the product [2].

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.

Does moisturiser stop fake tan developing?

As part of your tanning prep, it is essential to ensure your skin is hydrated by using a moisturiser every day on the lead up to your application. Avoid using a moisturiser on the day of tanning as this can cause a barrier which affects how the tan absorbs.

Does shaving remove fake tan?

Shaving Before or After Spray Tan FAQ

Spray tan may fade slightly when shaving, especially if done immediately after the session. Waiting 8-12 hours before shaving and using gentle strokes can minimise the impact on the tan.

Does body oil ruin fake tan?

Moisturise The best fake tans are kept looking fresh when you moisturise frequently. Make sure you avoid lotions that contain petroleum, mineral oils, coconut oil or Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) – all of these can compromise your fake tan.

Can you moisturise over tan?

As for potential pitfalls when it comes to moisturising after a fake tan, all you need to do is be wary of heavy moisturisers that could cause your tan to melt away before it has set in. Opt for a lightweight and fast-absorbing moisturiser instead, to keep your tan on and looking good.

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.

Does moisturizing make your tan last longer?

If there's one essential step that will help you to keep your tan after a vacation, it's moisturizing. After spending days basking in the heat of the sun, your skin will feel dehydrated. Look for products that are rich in oils and creamy butters and ensure that you start to moisturize before your skin becomes dry.

Is it better to fake tan at night or morning?

Applying at night gives your self-tanner time to develop a natural tan look. Things like showering, rain, or tight clothes can mess up your tan when it's trying to settle. And some tanning products will also stain! As the self-tanner process can take up to eight hours, applying right before bed is super convenient.

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.

How to shower after fake tan?

Post-tan, skip bar soaps, exfoliating scrubs, and alcohol-based lotions as they can strip your colour and leave it patchy. Limit long, hot showers or excessive washing, which can speed up fading. Instead, stick to quick, lukewarm showers and use gentle, sulfate-free body washes.

Can I put fake tan on hairy legs?

Tanning lotions are fantastic for gliding across smooth skin but can be trickier to blend into a hairy chest, legs and arms. We recommend you opt for a tanning spray or mousse instead because the lighter texture is easier to buff into the skin even when applied over hairy areas.

How long does fake tan last?

Before we dive into tips on how to extend your sunless tan, you're probably wondering, “Just how long does a fake tan last?” On average, your skin retains self tanner for 5-7 days, but this period of longevity can vary based on many factors. Expired self tanning products, sensitive skin, and skin types are a few.

Are you meant to moisturise after fake tanning?

The answer is YES, but only after the self tan has fully developed. All Bali Body fake tan's take around 8 hours to fully develop and reach their maximum level of glow. Regardless of when you wash the colour guide off, we highly recommend you don't moisturise until the 8 hour mark.

How to avoid orange knees when fake tanning?

Squeeze the mousse onto a tanning mitt and apply it to the body in smooth, circular motions. Top tip: to avoid orange patches, go light on the ankles, elbows, knees, knuckles, and nose. These areas are the most absorbent and will darken quickly. The more mousse you apply, the deeper the tan will be.

Are you supposed to fake tan your face?

The answer is yes! Hydrate the skin so your fake tan lasts longer and applies evenly. Avoid oils as this can make application tricky and it can react with certain self-tanners – breaking the formula down and making it patchy. Instead, use a light lotion or cream.

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 .

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.

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