Caring for Your Spray Tan

Caring for your spray tan properly makes all the difference to how deep your colour develops and how long it lasts. A little aftercare in the first 24 hours, and consistent care in the days that follow, is the easiest way to get the most out of every spray tan session at Glow Tanning and Beauty. Whether this is your first spray tan or you’re a regular, a few simple habits go a long way in keeping your colour looking fresh and even.

Preparing for Your Spray Tan
A little preparation before your appointment helps your spray tan go on smoothly and last as long as possible:

• Wax or shave at least 24 hours prior to your spray tan, not on the day itself
• Shower and exfoliate beforehand to remove dead skin cells and any product residue
• Do not apply moisturisers, body butters or oils to your skin before your appointment
• Avoid deodorant, lotions, perfumes or essential oils, both before and after your spray tan
• Wear loose, dark clothing and flip flops to your appointment, to avoid marking your tan or your clothes on the way home

Letting Your Tan Develop
Try to leave your spray tan to develop for as long as possible, ideally overnight, but for at least 6 hours as a minimum. The longer you can leave it before showering, the deeper and more even your colour will be. While your tan is developing, avoid touching your skin as much as possible, and avoid any activity that causes excessive perspiration, such as exercise or hot rooms, for at least 24 hours after your appointment. Hold off on deodorant, perfume and makeup for the same 24 hour period too, as these can all interfere with how your tan develops and settles into the skin.

Your First Shower
Once your development time has passed, shower using warm water only, avoid hot water, as it can strip colour and shorten your tan’s lifespan. Do not wash your hair during this first shower, and avoid using any soap, shower gel or exfoliating products on your skin, a rinse with water alone is all that’s needed. Pat your skin dry afterwards rather than rubbing, to avoid disturbing the fresh colour.

Keeping Your Tan Looking Its Best
Moisturise daily using an oil free moisturiser or a dedicated tan extender, this helps prolong the life of your tan and ensures it fades evenly rather than patchily. Dry skin sheds more quickly, taking your tan with it, so staying on top of your moisturising routine really is the single best thing you can do between appointments. Avoid long, hot baths, swimming in chlorinated pools, and heavy exfoliation, all of which will fade your tan faster than normal daily wear.

When to Book Your Next Spray Tan
Most spray tans last around 5 to 7 days before they begin to naturally fade, though this varies depending on your skin type and how well you’ve followed your aftercare routine. If you’re maintaining a base colour, booking a top up session as your current tan begins to fade helps keep your glow looking consistent all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I accidentally get my tan wet before it’s developed?
Try to gently pat the area dry as soon as possible and avoid rubbing. A little water contact shouldn’t ruin your tan entirely, but it may cause some patchiness in that specific area, so keep an eye on it once you’ve had your first proper shower.

Can I use soap or shower gel the next day?
Yes, once your first tan safe shower (water only) is done, you can return to your normal shower routine, just choose gentle, oil free products where possible, as harsh soaps can speed up fading.

Will swimming ruin my spray tan?
Chlorine and salt water will both fade a spray tan faster than normal daily wear, so if you’re planning a pool day or a swim, it’s worth booking your spray tan around it rather than right before.

How long does a spray tan actually last?
Most clients get 5 to 7 days from their spray tan, though this varies depending on skin type, aftercare, and lifestyle, regular moisturising is the biggest factor within your control.

Ready to book your next spray tan? Visit our spray tanning page to find out more, or book online with our team today.