The sunless spray tan is one of the most popular and convenient ways to get a glowing bronzed look without the harmful health risks associated with traditional tanning methods.
However, you need to understand how to properly care for your spray tan in order to maintain the best results possible.
One critical part of this maintenance is choosing an appropriate body wash or cleanser after you receive a spray tan.
In this blog post, I’ll share what is the best body wash after a spray tan? Plus, the ingredients you need to avoid.
What Is A Spray Tan?
A spray tan is a type of tanning method that uses an airbrush machine to spray a fine mist of tanning solution onto the skin.
This product contains an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which interacts with proteins in the outer layer of the skin to create a natural-looking bronze color.
Spray tans typically take about 15 minutes or less to apply, and the effects can last anywhere from 5 to 10 days.
Spray tanning is a popular alternative to sunbathing as it does not require UV exposure, making it safe for all skin types.
Unlike tanning beds, which use UV rays to make the skin tan, spray tans have been proven to have no long-term side effects.
The color created by the spray tan will fade over time as your body naturally sheds its dead skin cells.
In order to ensure the best outcome, prepare your skin prior to the spray tan. This includes exfoliating and moisturizing to get rid of dry patches and ensure an even application.
Since a spray tan only takes a short amount of time, it is ideal for those looking for fast and reliable color.
What Are The Benefits Of Spray Tans?
Having a nice tan is something that many people strive for, and while it may be easier to obtain during the summer months, spray tans are a viable option year-round.
Spray tans are becoming increasingly popular as a way to get a healthy glow without exposing your skin to potentially damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Spray tanning is when a technician sprays a mist of dye onto the skin, allowing it to absorb over time and give a sun-kissed look without the health risks associated with UV radiation.
The benefits of spray tanning are numerous, ranging from convenience and affordability to healthier skin.
First and foremost, spray tans are a convenient way to obtain a nice, even tan.
Instead of spending time lying in the sun or in a tanning bed, a spray tan only takes a few minutes and can be done at home or in a salon.
This eliminates the need for an appointment and makes it easy to get your desired look quickly and efficiently.
Since the application is done in a controlled environment, there’s no need to worry about inclement weather or environmental factors that might otherwise lead to an uneven tan.
On top of convenience, spray tans are also much more affordable than other tanning methods.
A session in a tanning bed can cost upwards of $50, while a spray tan tends to cost around $20. As such, it’s much easier to maintain a consistent tan without breaking the bank.
Finally, there’s also the health benefits they offer. Exposure to UV radiation (whether from natural or artificial sources) can lead to skin damage, wrinkles, and even skin cancer, so spray tans will negate this risk, but still gives you the beautiful glow.
How Should You Prepare Your Skin For A Spray Tan?
Getting a spray tan is a great way to get a quick and lasting tan, with results that can last up to a week.
However, there are certain steps you should take before and after a spray tan to ensure your skin is properly prepared to make the most out of your tanning session.
Before Tanning
The most essential thing to do before a spray tan is to make sure your skin is clean and moisturized. This means exfoliating and hydrating the day before.
But avoiding oil-based moisturizers or lotions that could interfere with the tanning solution adhesion to the skin.
It’s also best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that won’t rub against your skin and cause irritation.
On the day of tanning, it is best to come to the salon without wearing makeup or deodorant, since these can create a barrier between the skin and the tanning solution.
Make sure to remove any jewelry or accessories that you normally wear that could interfere with the tanning process.
During Tanning
Once you arrive at the salon, make sure you are comfortable in the environment before starting your spray tan.
It’s not necessary to wear any special clothing or bathing suit during the process, as the spray tan solution will be applied directly to your bare skin.
The technician will then use an airbrush or gun to apply the tanning solution evenly and carefully.
After Tanning
Once your spray tan is complete, you should wait a few minutes before getting dressed and leaving the salon.
During this time, avoid sweating or taking any kind of shower until after four hours in order to allow the tanning solution to fully set.
After four hours, shower off any excess tanning solution with lukewarm water and a mild body wash, avoiding very hot showers that could strip away the tan.
Make sure to moisturize your skin regularly and exfoliate once a week in order to maintain the results.
Also, avoid swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater for a few days after the tanning session to help prevent fading of the color.
How Should You Look After Your Skin After Having A Spray Tan?
Taking care of your skin after a spray tan is vital, if you want to maintain a sun-kissed look for as long as possible.
Here, we’ll provide you with all the advice you need to ensure you can keep a golden glow and keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
The day after you have your spray tan, it’s normal for some excess tan to wash off in the shower.
To get the most out of your tan and make it last longer, avoid shampooing, or using any soaps, lotions or oils until 24 hours after you had your tan. This will stop the products from interfering with the setting of the tan.
You should also avoid any forms of exercise, including swimming, for 8–12 hours after your spray tan to stop it from wearing off.
If you do decide to take a dip, be sure to wear a rash guard or a swimsuit that covers your entire body and try to stay in the pool or ocean for minimal time.
Once you’ve taken your first shower, the following showers will be crucial to maintain your spray tan.
Try and use warm water instead of hot, and avoid rubbing your skin too harshly – just a gentle cleanse with light pressure.
Make sure to use gentle body wash products that don’t contain exfoliants, oils or harsh ingredients as these can strip the colour from your skin. Instead, opt for mild soaps specifically designed for use on skin with a spray tan.
As you’re washing yourself in the shower, remember not to use any sponges, loofahs or scrubbing brushes as these can irritate your skin and fade the tan too quickly, and it’ll leave your skin dry.
What Is The Best Body Wash After A Spray Tan?
When it comes to taking care of your skin after a spray tan, it can be difficult to know what kind of body washes and soaps are the best for you.
After all, a spray tan is an investment in your skin, so make sure that you are taking the time to get the most out of it.
To keep your tan looking as fresh and vibrant as possible, you’ll need to make sure that you are using the right body wash – the last thing you want to do, is end up washing away your beautiful tan down the drain.
The best body washes after a spray tan are those that are free from harsh chemicals and are designed specifically for tan maintenance.
Look for a body wash that contains ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter, which will help to nourish and hydrate the skin and keep your tan looking its best.
Make sure that the soaps and body wash you use is free from harsh sulfates (sulfate-free), which can strip away your tan and make it look faded and patchy.
When it comes to moisturizing your skin after a spray tan, opt for a body wash that isn’t overly drying.
Look for body washes that contain natural ingredients like jojoba oil, avocado oil, and argan oil to help lock in your new tan while deeply hydrating your skin.
You may want to look for a body wash that contains a non-greasy SPF formula to protect your tan from UV damage throughout the day.
Finally, the best body wash for maintaining a spray tan should also be pH balanced.
Using a pH-balanced body wash will help to maintain your tan’s natural color, while also helping to keep your skin hydrated and protected from environmental stressors.
Bondi Sands pH Balancing Body Wash
What sets the Bondi Sands pH Balancing Body Wash apart from other body washes on the market is its ability to specifically balance your skin’s pH levels.
This helps to maintain your skin’s natural barrier against bacteria, dirt, and pollution – all factors that can potentially reduce the life of your spray tan.
As well as balancing pH levels, the Bondi Sands body wash also contains gentle cleansers and hydrating ingredients such as shea butter and glycerin that helps to nourish and restore the skin’s natural moisture balance.
This ensures your skin not only feels soft and hydrated after use, but helps to extend the life of your spray tan.
Aveeno Moisturizing Body Wash
Aveeno Moisturizing Body Wash is an excellent choice when it comes to caring for your skin after a spray tan.
This body wash is enriched with natural oat extracts, which help to retain moisture, while also providing gentle cleansing.
Using Aveeno helps to eliminate any dryness that can occur post sunless tan, while also helping to preserve the vibrancy of the tan.
Formulated with mild and non-drying ingredients, this body wash is free of soap, dyes, and fragrances and is 100% hypoallergenic, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Aveeno Moisturizing Body Wash contains only the best ingredients to ensure your tanned skin looks and feels its best.
Bali Body Body Wash
If you’ve just gotten a gorgeous spray tan and you want to keep it looking its best, you’ll need to find the perfect body wash to use. Bali Body Body Wash is the ideal choice for this.
It is formulated with an advanced blend of natural ingredients designed to preserve your spray tan.
The body wash is made with natural moisturizing oils like coconut, olive, and avocado oil, as well as antioxidant-rich green tea extract and vitamin E.
These ingredients work together to nourish your skin and help it hold on to its golden colour for longer.
The body wash is free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and artificial dyes, making it the perfect choice for those with sensitive skin.
Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Refreshing Body Wash
For those who enjoy an occasional spray tan, Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Refreshing Body Wash is the perfect spray tan safe body wash to maintain your bronzed glow, to prevent any tan fade issues.
With a combination of plant-based cleansing ingredients, it gently washes away oil, dirt, and any other impurities without stripping or drying out your skin.
The pH-balanced shower gel contains ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and aloe vera to help soothe and protect your skin and helps to maintain the evenness of your tan for longer.
It’s enriched with antioxidants and natural oils to deeply moisturize and nourish your skin.
It also features a light, refreshing scent that will help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated after your spray tan.
For those who want to maintain their tanned complexion for longer, Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Refreshing Body Wash is the perfect choice.
Which Body Wash Ingredients Should You Avoid After Spray Tans?
Your skin is your body’s largest and most essential organ, so it’s essential to take good care of it.
If you get spray tans, switching to a body wash with gentle ingredients can help you keep your tan looking beautiful for longer.
Avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances when choosing a body wash for use after spray tans, as these can strip the tan away and leave your skin feeling dry and irritated.
Look for body wash that is free of alcohol, sulfates, parabens, salicylic acid, mineral oil, and artificial fragrances. These ingredients can be drying and may even cause skin irritation.
Oil-based creamy body washes can be particularly beneficial after spray tans, since they help retain moisture while still thoroughly cleaning your skin.
However, you should still avoid any washes that contain harsh exfoliants or high levels of essential oils, as the lathering action can strip away your tan, as well as using bar soap.
Choose body wash products that are designed for sensitive skin and free of common irritants.
This will help reduce your risk of skin irritation and ensure that your beautiful spray tan looks its best for as long as possible.
When taking care of your spray tan, the most important thing to remember is to wait at least 8-10 hours before showering. Always use lukewarm water and a mild cleanser when you do shower, and be sure to pat yourself dry with a towel after getting out.
To extend the life of your tan even further, apply a nourishing body lotion that is oil-free and specifically formulated for use after a spray tan.
These simple steps should help your gorgeous bronze glow last for as long as possible, without going patchy, uneven or wearing off to quickly.
Hi, my name is Gemma, and I’m the owner of MakeupMuddle.com. I’m a true beauty obsessive, and love writing about anything to do with beauty – I have been a beauty writer since 2012.