What To Do After A Spray Tan: Complete Guide & Key Details
So, you've just emerged from the magical mist of the spray tan booth. You're glowing! You're bronzed! You feel like a million bucks.
But now what? This is where the real adventure begins. It's not just about the glow; it's about keeping that glow alive.
Welcome to the post-spray tan survival guide. Consider this your cheat sheet to a flawless tan.
Let's be honest, sometimes we emerge looking a little... sticky. That's totally normal. Think of it as your temporary, beautiful, tan-infused exoskeleton.
The Crucial Waiting Game
The first rule of spray tan club: Thou shalt not shower immediately. Seriously, resist the urge. Your tan needs time to set.
This is often the hardest part. You feel like you've just had a spa treatment and want to wash it all off. But you can't.
Your technician will tell you how long to wait. It's usually between 4 to 8 hours. Some fancy tans might even say 12 hours.
Use this waiting time wisely. It's your chance to practice your best "just got back from vacation" pose.
What NOT to Do While Waiting
This is where things get interesting. Think of all the things that could smudge your beautiful new color.
Avoid water. No baths, no showers, no accidental spills from your water bottle. Be like a delicate flower that needs to stay perfectly dry.
No sweating. This is tough, especially if you're naturally a bit of a human radiator. Skip the gym. Avoid any strenuous activities.
Don't wear tight clothes. Think loose and flowy. Your tan needs room to breathe and develop.
Consider this your official invitation to become a professional couch potato. Netflix and chill? Perfect.
Some people even go to bed in their spray tan. It's a daring move, but sometimes the only way to make it through the waiting period. Just wear old pajamas.
The First Shower: A Ceremony of Sorts
Ah, the first shower. It's like a rite of passage.
This is where you rinse off the bronzer. It's the initial wash. You will see color wash off. Don't panic. This is supposed to happen.
Use lukewarm water. Not hot, not cold. Just a nice, comfortable temperature.
Use a mild, non-exfoliating soap. Think gentle. Think kind. Your skin is a canvas, and you don't want to scrub it too hard.
Do not use loofahs or harsh washcloths. Your hands are your best friends here. Gently lather and rinse.
Pat yourself dry. Do not rub. Rubbing can cause streaks and unevenness. You want to maintain that beautiful glow.
After your shower, you'll be amazed at your natural-looking tan. It’s usually a beautiful shade of golden brown.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
This is arguably the most important step for tan longevity. Hydration is key.
Apply a good quality, moisturizing lotion as soon as you are dry. Do this after every shower.
Keep your skin happy and hydrated. Think of it as feeding your tan.
When your skin is moisturized, your tan fades evenly. It's less likely to develop those dreaded patchy spots.
Look for lotions that don't contain alcohol or strong fragrances. These can dry out your skin.
Some people even use tan-extending lotions. These can give your tan a little boost.
Daily Habits for a Lasting Tan
Maintaining your glow is an ongoing effort. It's a commitment.
Avoid long, hot showers or baths. These can strip your tan. Opt for shorter, cooler showers.
Skip the exfoliation. This means no harsh scrubs, no exfoliating gloves, and no retinoids for now. Your skin is already renewed, you don't need to renew it again so soon.
Be mindful of your hands. We wash our hands a lot. Use gentle soap and moisturize them thoroughly after each wash.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps your skin from the inside out.
Avoid chlorine. Chlorine in swimming pools can dry out your skin and fade your tan quickly. If you must swim, apply a thick layer of moisturizer beforehand.
Sunscreen is still your friend. While you look tanned, spray tans don't offer sun protection. Wear your SPF!
This is one of those "unpopular opinions" that many people agree with: A good spray tan is a fashion statement. It’s like wearing a beautifully tailored outfit. You want to take care of it.
The Art of Touching Up
As your tan starts to fade, you might notice a few areas that need a little extra love.
You can use a tan-extending lotion or a tan-moisturizing mist to even things out. These are great for subtle touch-ups.
Some people even use self-tanning drops mixed with their regular moisturizer. This is a more advanced technique, so practice makes perfect.
Remember, the goal is an even fade. It's not about trying to make it last forever, but making it fade gracefully.
What To Expect As Your Tan Fades
Eventually, your gorgeous tan will start to disappear. It's like the end of a good book.
It usually fades gradually. You'll notice it lightening. It might become a little patchier.
Some people find their tan fades to a lovely golden hue. Others might notice a slight orange undertone. This can depend on the solution used and your skin's natural pH.
When it's time to fully remove the tan, an exfoliating scrub or a tan-removing mitt can be helpful. But again, do this gently.
Once it's all gone, you can book your next appointment! The cycle of glow continues.
So there you have it. Your ultimate guide to post-spray tan success. Embrace the glow, protect it, and enjoy your radiant self! You deserve it.