Will showering ruin my spray tan?

Author: Ethel Brown  |  Last update: Monday, July 14, 2025

Opt for quick, lukewarm showers or baths. Extended exposure to hot water, however tempting it may be, can, unfortunately, cause your tan to fade or streak. As your skin softens and sloughs off under the hot water, so will your gorgeous tan, so do your best to keep it short and sweet.

How soon after a spray tan can I shower?

Wait 4-8 hours before showering to let your tan fully develop, but avoid leaving it on for more than 24 hours. During this time, steer clear of moisture—no sweating, workouts, or liquid foundation.

Does fake tan come off when you shower?

Showering after tanning is typically not recommended immediately, as it can wash away the tanning product and lead to uneven results. If you must shower, it's best to wait at least 4 to 8 hours after tanning, depending on the product used, to allow the tan to develop fully.

Does water wash off spray tan?

When it comes to washing off your spray tan, shower under lukewarm water and avoid using scrubs or soaps, as these can fade your tan. Simply rinse until the water runs clear.

Will taking a bath ruin my spray tan?

Tans are water soluble and will degrade with extended exposure to sweat and water (especially hot water). Baths, long showers, intense workouts, salt water and chlorine will take a toll on your tan- however live your life and enjoy your glow!

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What happens if you get wet after a spray tan?

Even the smallest splash of water on your fresh spray tan can result in light spots or a streaky appearance, something that you will really want to avoid.

How to get rid of fake tan smell after showering?

Once your self-tanner has developed, a nice cool shower in your favourite fruit or flower-scented body wash will help wash away the smell. Hot tip: Citrus seems to be extra effective at combating the self-tan or spray tan smell!

Will fake tan come off in water?

While chlorine and other chemicals in the pool water can cause your tan to fade faster or become patchy, it won't instantly remove your tan entirely. The good news is with the right after care following your spray appointment, you can minimise any damage to your tan and keep that flawless glow longer!

Does showering after tanning in the sun affect your tan?

After tanning, you will produce a little bit of sweat, but that's it. There is no reason to shower right away because water does not affect the tan. This is another myth that has been around for ages. The truth is, showering right after getting a tan will not cause staining of your skin.

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 long before you can shower after fake tan?

Optimal Tan Development: Understanding the Timeframes

For a Light Tan: Leave the tan on for 2-4 hours, then shower. For a Medium Tan: Leave the tan on for 4-6 hours, then shower. For a Dark Tan: Leave the tan on for 6-8 hours, then shower.

How long does a spray tan last in a swimming pool?

How long does fake tan last while swimming? Depending the type of tanning product you use and how dark it is, your fake tan usually lasts more than a week but less than 10 days.

How to get rid of a spray tan asap?

To get rid of fake tan quickly, try soaking in a warm bath with baby oil, followed by exfoliating with an exfoliating mitt.

Do and don'ts of spray tan?

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.

What body wash is best for spray tan?

Clear body wash or soaps like DIAL, IVORY, LEVER 2000, IRISH SPRING or ZEST are recommended. 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).

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!

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

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

Does fake tan still develop after a shower?

Our Self Tan ranges can be washed off after just 1 hour, but for a deeper tan, we advise avoiding showering, swimming, and perspiring for 6 - 8 hours to allow your tan to develop fully on the skin.

Why does my tan go away after I shower?

3. Hot Showers & Baths. Hot showers/baths feel great, especially after a long day, but they are not the best choice for maintaining your self-tan. Hot water can open up the pores and promote skin cell turnover, which in turn, can cause your tan to fade quicker.

What ruins fake tan?

As sweat is acidic, it can cause self tan to break down when left to sit on the skin.

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.

Do you wash off fake tan or just rinse?

If you opt for a wash-off tan, allow it to develop for 4 to 8 hours. Then, wash it off with slightly cooler water than normal, and don't use scrubs or soaps as these can fade your tan. Simply rinse until the water runs clear.

Can people smell my fake tan?

Most self-tanners leave behind a distinct scent so strong that it gives the entire practice a bad reputation. There are, however, ways to manage a smelly tan and avoid self-tanner stink altogether.

Does rapid spray tan keep developing after 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.

What lotions to avoid after spray tan?

You must avoid the following ingredients when using a moisturizer: Mineral Oil, Petroleum, Paraffins, Paraffinum Liquidum, Ceresine. Curel lotions will fade a tan faster, on some people. Avoid lotions with a high alcohol content such as CeraVe.

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