You're Probably Showering Wrong: The Ultimate Spray Tan Shower Routine
Let’s get one thing straight: Your spray tan isn’t fading early because it’s a bad tan. It’s fading early because you’re showering like it’s just another Tuesday.
If you’re over here rinsing with scalding hot water, scrubbing like you're on a loofah vendetta, or squeezing your skin into tight leggings right after your rinse—you might be sabotaging your glow. But don’t stress, we’ve got your (sun-kissed) back.
Here’s your ultimate, no-BS spray tan shower routine to keep that glow game strong.
Step 1: Timing is Everything, Babe
Don’t sprint to the shower right after your appointment. That dreamy bronze color you’re obsessed with? It needs time to develop. Wait at least 8 to 24 hours (your tech will tell you exact timing), depending on whether you booked a Luxe or Basic tan.
Early shower = early tan funeral. Don’t do it.
Step 2: Your First Shower = Gentle Rinse Only
When the time finally comes? Keep it quick and lukewarm, like your last situationship.
Here’s the breakdown:
No soap. No suds. No shampoo.
Rinse off with lukewarm (not hot) water only.
Skip the scrubs, loofahs, and anything that says “exfoliating.”
Pat dry—don’t rub like you’re mad at your towel.
And yes, seeing color rinse off is normal. That’s the cosmetic bronzer. Your real tan is still developing.
Step 3: The Days After—Time to Be a Shower Princess
Once your tan is set, you’re not totally off the hook. Your daily routine matters. Here's what spray tan aftercare looks like:
Use a gentle, oil-free body wash. Harsh soaps are the enemy.
Keep water temps on the chill side.
No loofahs. Still. (Retire it. Break up. It’s time.)
Moisturize every day with an oil-free lotion—this is non-negotiable.
Hydration = glow insurance.
Step 4: Don’t Do These Things. Ever.
Repeat after us:
No hot tubs
No long hot baths
No scented body scrubs
No sweating buckets right after your appointment (Talking to you, SolidCore girlies)
If you’re sweating a lot (Michigan summers, we know the struggle), blot—don’t wipe.
Your spray tan shower routine = make-or-break. Do it right and your tan will last up to a full week of looking fire. Ignore it, and you’ll be streaky before brunch.
