You put in the prep work, you got a gorgeous glow — now let's keep it! With the right aftercare routine, your airbrush spray tan can last 7 to 10 days. Here's how to make every bit of that golden color stick around as long as possible.
1. Wait 8–12 Hours Before Your First Shower
This is the most important rule of spray tan aftercare. Allow 8 to 12 hours for your tan to fully develop before bathing. During this time, avoid contact with water, sweat, and rain. Skip the gym, the pool, and even the steamy bathroom. Patience pays off with a deeper, longer-lasting color!
2. Don't Panic During Your First Shower
When you finally shower, you'll notice brown-tinted water going down the drain. Don't worry — that's completely normal! It's just the cosmetic bronzer washing off the surface of your skin. Your real tan is developing underneath. After your shower, gently pat (don't rub!) your skin dry with a towel to avoid streaking or removing color.
3. Moisturize Twice a Day
A spray tan fades as your skin naturally sheds dead cells. The best way to slow that process is to keep your skin hydrated. Apply a sunless-tan-compatible moisturizer twice a day — morning and night. Avoid heavy self-tanners layered on top, as these can cause uneven tones and streaks.
Ask us about our specially formulated products designed to prep and extend your Fantasy Tan:
- Refresh – Green Tea Body Wash
- Renew – Green Tea Moisturizer
- Revive – Sunless Tan Extender
- Rebuild – Sunless Tanning Mist
4. Avoid These Tan-Killers
A few things will shorten the life of your tan faster than anything else:
- Long, hot showers or baths
- Swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater
- Exfoliating scrubs or loofahs after your tan
- Tight clothing that rubs the skin
When in doubt, be gentle with your skin and it'll reward you with a longer-lasting glow!
Keep the Glow Going
Ready for your next appointment? Check out our Airbrush Spray Tan pricing and book your visit. We're located in Lexington County, SC and love helping our community look and feel their best!