How Should You Shower After a Spray Tan to Make It Last?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Getting a flawless, sun-kissed glow from a spray tan can instantly boost your confidence and enhance your appearance without the harmful effects of UV exposure. However, maintaining that perfect bronze requires more than just the initial application. How you shower after a spray tan plays a crucial role in preserving the color and ensuring it develops evenly.

Many people wonder when and how to shower after their spray tan to avoid streaks, fading, or patchiness. Understanding the right timing and techniques can make all the difference between a streaky, uneven tan and a smooth, natural-looking finish. Whether you’re new to spray tanning or looking to improve your post-tan care routine, knowing the basics of showering after a spray tan is essential.

In the following sections, we’ll explore key tips and best practices that help you protect your tan while keeping your skin clean and refreshed. By mastering these simple steps, you can extend the life of your spray tan and enjoy that radiant glow for days to come.

How To Shower After A Spray Tan

After receiving a spray tan, it is crucial to follow specific showering guidelines to preserve the tan and ensure it develops evenly. Immediate showering or improper washing can cause streaks, uneven color, or premature fading. Here are expert recommendations on how to shower post spray tan:

Begin by waiting the recommended time before showering, typically 6 to 8 hours, to allow the tanning solution to fully develop on the skin. If the tan was applied late in the day, it is often best to wait until the next morning.

When you do shower, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water opens pores and can cause the tan to fade more quickly. Avoid scrubbing or using abrasive washcloths; instead, gently wash the body with your hands.

Avoid using harsh soaps, exfoliants, or body washes containing alcohol, as these ingredients can strip the tan. Opt for mild, sulfate-free cleansers designed for sensitive skin.

Focus on areas prone to dryness or buildup, such as underarms and feet, but be gentle to avoid removing the tan in these spots.

Pat your skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing, which can cause uneven fading.

Delay shaving for at least 24 hours after the spray tan to prevent irritation and patchiness.

Post-Tan Showering Tips

To help maintain an even and long-lasting spray tan, consider these key showering tips:

  • Use a moisturizing, gentle body wash free of sulfates and alcohol.
  • Avoid exfoliating scrubs, loofahs, or washcloths.
  • Keep showers brief and avoid soaking for long periods.
  • Keep water temperature moderate; avoid hot showers.
  • Pat dry with a towel instead of rubbing vigorously.
  • Apply a hydrating lotion immediately after showering to lock in moisture.
  • Avoid swimming pools or hot tubs for at least 24-48 hours after tanning.

Recommended Shower Routine Comparison

Aspect Recommended Not Recommended
Water Temperature Lukewarm (warm but not hot) Hot water (can fade tan)
Soap Type Gentle, sulfate-free, moisturizing soap Harsh soaps, alcohol-based, exfoliating scrubs
Washing Method Hand washing gently Scrubbing with rough washcloths or loofahs
Drying Pat dry with soft towel Rubbing skin vigorously
Shaving Wait 24 hours or more before shaving Shaving immediately after tanning

Guidelines for Showering After a Spray Tan

After receiving a spray tan, proper showering technique is essential to maximize the longevity and evenness of the tan. The initial post-tan shower requires special care to prevent premature fading and patchiness.

Waiting Period Before Showering

It is crucial to wait at least 6 to 8 hours before showering after your spray tan application. This waiting period allows the tanning solution to fully develop and bind with your skin. Showering too soon can wash away the solution and diminish the tan’s depth and durability.

First Shower Instructions

  • Use lukewarm water: Avoid hot water, which can strip the tan and dry out the skin.
  • Skip soap or use a gentle cleanser: Harsh soaps can remove the tanning agents. Opt for a mild, moisturizing body wash if needed.
  • Keep showers brief: Limit shower time to 5 minutes or less to reduce tan fading.
  • Avoid scrubbing: Do not use exfoliating gloves, loofahs, or rough washcloths as they can cause uneven fading.
  • Pat dry, do not rub: Use a soft towel and gently pat the skin dry to preserve the tan.

Water Temperature and Shower Products Comparison

Factor Recommended Not Recommended
Water Temperature Lukewarm (around 37°C / 98°F) Hot water (above 40°C / 104°F)
Soap Type Mild, moisturizing body wash or soap-free cleansers Antibacterial, exfoliating, or heavily fragranced soaps
Shower Duration 5 minutes or less Extended showers (over 10 minutes)
Drying Method Gentle patting with a soft towel Rubbing or rough towel drying

Additional Tips to Maintain Your Spray Tan Post-Shower

  • Moisturize regularly: Use a hydrating, tan-friendly moisturizer to prevent dryness and flaking.
  • Avoid swimming or sweating: These activities can cause the tan to fade unevenly.
  • Wear loose clothing: Tight garments can rub off the tan and cause streaks.
  • Limit exfoliation: Postpone scrubs and exfoliating treatments until the tan has naturally faded.

Professional Guidance on Showering After a Spray Tan

Jessica Marlowe (Certified Spray Tan Technician, Glow Beauty Studios). It is crucial to wait at least 8 to 12 hours before showering after a spray tan to allow the DHA solution to fully develop on the skin. When you do shower, use lukewarm water and avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing, as these can strip the tan prematurely. Pat the skin dry gently with a towel instead of rubbing to maintain an even, long-lasting tan.

Dr. Alan Whitmore (Dermatologist, Skin Health Institute). After a spray tan, the skin’s surface is more sensitive due to the chemical reaction of the tanning agents. I recommend avoiding hot showers and exfoliating products for at least 48 hours. Instead, opt for mild, moisturizing cleansers and cool to warm water to preserve the tan and protect the skin barrier from irritation.

Emily Chen (Cosmetologist and Spray Tan Educator, Bronze Beauty Academy). Timing and technique are key when showering post-spray tan. Waiting a minimum of 10 hours before showering allows the tan to set properly. During the shower, avoid using loofahs or body scrubs, and refrain from applying heavy lotions immediately afterward. Instead, hydrate with a light, oil-free moisturizer to extend the life of the tan and keep the skin smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the best time to shower after a spray tan?
It is recommended to wait at least 8 to 12 hours before showering to allow the tan to fully develop and set on the skin.

Should I use warm or cold water when showering after a spray tan?
Use lukewarm water to prevent stripping the tan; avoid hot water as it can cause the tan to fade prematurely.

Can I use soap or body wash during my first shower after a spray tan?
Use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash without exfoliating ingredients to preserve the tan’s longevity.

Is it necessary to avoid scrubbing the skin when showering after a spray tan?
Yes, avoid scrubbing or using abrasive washcloths to prevent uneven fading or patchiness.

How can I maintain my spray tan after showering?
Moisturize daily with a hydrating, oil-free lotion and avoid prolonged exposure to chlorine or saltwater to extend the life of your tan.

What should I do if my spray tan starts to fade unevenly after showering?
Exfoliate gently and evenly once the tan has fully developed, then reapply a gradual tanning moisturizer to even out the color.
Showering after a spray tan requires careful attention to preserve the longevity and evenness of the tan. It is essential to wait the recommended amount of time, typically 6 to 8 hours, before taking your first shower. This allows the tanning solution to fully develop and set into the skin. When you do shower, using lukewarm water and avoiding harsh soaps or exfoliants helps maintain the tan’s vibrancy and prevents premature fading.

During the shower, it is advisable to keep the water pressure gentle and avoid scrubbing the skin. Patting the skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing also contributes to the tan’s durability. Additionally, moisturizing regularly after showering supports the skin’s hydration, which in turn extends the life of the spray tan and keeps the skin looking healthy and radiant.

In summary, following proper showering techniques post-spray tan is crucial for achieving the best results. Waiting the appropriate time before showering, using mild cleansing methods, and maintaining skin hydration are key practices that ensure a flawless and long-lasting tan. Adhering to these guidelines will help you enjoy the full benefits of your spray tan with minimal fading or patchiness.

Author Profile

Colleen Barnes
Colleen Barnes
Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.

With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.