Often, patchy results are due to one of three things: improper skin prep, the application technique, or how you care for your skin post-bronzing. Typically, you'll want to cleanse and exfoliate your skin before applying self-tanner or getting a spray tan. You'll also want to moisturize prior to application.
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.
The only way to remove a spray tan is to scrub it off. A good exfoliant, an intense sweat session or self-tan remover can help speed up the process.
Respiratory problems. A known allergy to DHA. Open cuts/wounds. Severe skin conditions i.e. eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis.
What should I avoid after getting a spray tan? 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.
For the first day or so after getting your spray tan, you'll want to wear loose, flowy clothes—anything too tight has the potential to disrupt your tan. It's also important to follow the aftercare instructions set by your tanning artist (or those provided on the packaging of the product you used).
We recommend waiting at least 4-8 hours after your spray tan before you shower for the first time, but don't wait more than 24 hours. When you shower for the first time after getting a spray tan, you'll probably see some golden glow wash down the drain, but don't worry!
Day of Spray Tan (Pre Care):
Use soap only; do not use Dove or Caress products. Do not apply lotions, creams, or perfumes prior to session. Use deodorant very sparingly, as a harmless green tint can appear when solution and deodorant mix. Wear dark, loose fitting clothing and open toed sandals, flip-flops if possible.
In summary, while sitting down right after a spray tan is not ideal due to potential transfer and smudging, 360 Tans offers practical solutions to help you maintain your perfect glow.
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.
To get rid of fake tan quickly, try soaking in a warm bath with baby oil, followed by exfoliating with an exfoliating mitt.
Ocean / Swimming Any immersion in water for a long period of time will fade your spray tan (especially swimming pool water containing chlorine). Hot Showers Try to keep your showers just warm (and quick) and not hot as this will very quickly remove your spray tan.
Use Dish Soap
Dish soap can not only cut through grime and grease but can also get rid of your spray tan.
As sweat is acidic, it can cause self tan to break down when left to sit on the skin.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate: Also known as SLS, this is the most common ingredient in body washes and bar soaps.It is a strong detergent that allows the product to lather well. It will strip your spray tan quickly.
Don't Work Out Until Your Tan Has Developed
If you head to gym or get extra sticky before you've had your first post-tanning shower? You run the risk of a streaky, uneven tan – and even a green tinge from the sweat interfering with the tanning dyes. Don't say you haven't been warned!
Problem #1 A spray tan that looks too dark
The oil and hot water will help to break down the tan. Once out of the bath, taking a shower and rubbing skin lightly with a loofah or exfoliating mitt is a good idea. Scrubbing gently is key – otherwise, the tan may turn patchy.
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. You will want to continue to pat your skin dry for the duration of your Airbrush Spray Tan.
AFTER THE TAN
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. Pat your skin dry. Do not rub or scrub your skin.
What is the etiquette for tipping? The beauty industry standard is 20%.
Q1: Will My Fake Tan Look Better After I Shower? A: Yes! Showering helps remove excess bronzer and allows the DHA to continue developing. Skin appears cleaner and more radiant after a proper rinse.
Continue to avoid makeup, perfume, deodorant, soaps, and lotions during the development period. Do not wear tight clothing or bras after a session. Follow your technician's advice on when to shower based on the solution used. Avoid sweating excessively for the first 24 hours.
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!
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].