Spray Tanning, Swimming, and Sweating

Can you dive into the pool, work up a sweat at spin class, shower, or go to the beach for an afternoon of ocean-filled fun after your spray tan appointment? A spray tan is an easy way to get the golden glow you want all summer long. Before you get into the water, take a look at what you need to know about spray tan aftercare.



Are All Spray Tans the Same?

No, every spray tan does not have the same aftercare instructions. The amount of time it takes the tan to fully develop depends on the product the salon or spa uses. This means it may take more or less time to see the full color of your tan.

The spray tan professional can provide you with more information on the specific products they use and how long your tan needs to fully develop. According to the American Suntanning Association (ASA), it could take 12 to 24 hours for a sunless spray tan to fully develop.

What Does Tan Development Have To Do With Swimming or Showering?

Whether you swim in a pool, go to the beach, sweat, or take a shower, your skin will get wet. This can interfere with the tan development process. If you get wet before the sunless solution has time to fully develop, you could wash away some (or even all) of the product. This means the tan will never get the chance to fully develop.

Even though a too-quick rinse could stop your tan from reaching its peak color potential, waiting too long isn't the better option. The longer the solution sits on your skin, the darker it may get (depending on the product). Always follow the spa's or salon's rinsing instructions to make sure you get the desired result.

Should You Avoid Water After a Spray Tan?

The answer to this question is yes—and no. Again, your tan will need time to develop, and you will have to eventually rinse your skin to remove the solution or clean your skin. While you shouldn’t get sweaty immediately after your spray tan appointment, you won't have to avoid water until your tan fades.

Most spray tans can last for between seven and 10 days, according to the ASA. A week or more is a long time to skip showers, stay away from summertime pool or beach parties, or avoid exercise. Even though you shouldn't dive into the pool or shower immediately after your sunless tanning appointment, you can swim, bathe, or sweat after your tan is set.

Are There Better Ways To Swim or Shower With a Spray Tan?

Do you want to extend the life of your tan and get the most from this spa service? Instead of long, hot showers or hours in the pool, decrease the time you spend in the water. Choose shorter, lukewarm showers to stop your skin from drying out. Excessively hot water can damage keratin cells in the outer layer of your skin. This causes dryness and can make your spray tan fade or flake off. 

Likewise, chlorinated pool water or salty sea water can also dry or irritate the skin. This can also cause flaking and impact your spray tan. Limit the amount of time you spend in chlorinated or salty water to extend the life of your spray tan.

Will Sweat Affect a Spray Tan?

If you sweat immediately after your tanning appointment, you may not get the results that you expect. Like bathing, profuse sweating may make it difficult for your tan to fully develop. Add the pressure from wiping sweat away with a towel and you may not get the darker shade you want. If possible, avoid sweating in the hours or day after you tan.

Do you need to book a spray tan appointment? Contact Tan Your Hide for more information.