5 Things to Avoid After a Spray Tan

By Sho | Luxury Spray Tanning in Hudson Valley, NY

You finally got your tan. You look healthy, even, bronzed. Don’t ruin it by doing the wrong things right after. A spray tan isn’t hard to maintain — you just need to give it a little care. Here’s what to avoid if you want that color to last a full week.

1. Showering Too Soon OR Too Late

Your color needs time to develop. Rinsing off early washes away the bronzer before it’s set.
Your color can also OVER DEVELOP. It is very important to follow the instructions you have been given. If your artist says it is ok to sleep in, fine. If your artist says wash in 4-5 hours, make sure to do that. Every solution is different and reacts differently on different skin/undertones. Your spray tan artist has chosen the best solution and soak length specifically for YOU. It is not one size fits all and thinking “oh, longer means darker”, can wind up turning you orange or giving you an unnatural appearance.
When you do take your first shower, skip hot water and harsh soaps — use lukewarm water and your hands, not a loofah.

2. Sweating It Out

The gym, sauna, and even that long walk can wait. Sweat streaks your tan before it bonds with your skin.

3. Wearing Tight Clothes

Leggings, bras, socks, and jeans will rub off pigment while it’s still developing.
Loose cotton is your friend. Think soft, flowy, comfortable. If you know you will need to were something tight, consider that before making your appointment. Also consider discussing a rapid solution with your artist. Those can (and should) be rinsed off much sooner than regular solutions.

4. Using Oil-Based Products

Oil breaks down your tan quickly.
Stick with water-based or lightweight moisturizers designed for post-tan hydration. Read your labels — anything with mineral oil is the enemy.

5. Shaving or Exfoliating Too Soon

A spray tan sits on the top layer of your skin. When you exfoliate or shave, you’re literally taking the tan off.
Wait at least 48 hours before shaving, and use a fresh razor with light pressure. It is also helpful to use hair conditioner instead of soap or shaving cream. Whatever promotes moisture will extend the life of your tan. Avoid scrubs and exfoliating mitts until the color starts to fade naturally.

Bonus: Moisturize Daily

As stated above, hydrated skin means longer tan life.
Apply moisturizer morning and night. Dry skin flakes faster, which makes your color fade unevenly. And as with everything else - drinking lots of water is always beneficial!

Final Thoughts

A spray tan is a low-maintenance luxury — and it should feel like one. Follow these simple rules, and you’ll keep that even, natural color for a full 5–7 days, sometimes longer.

I offer mobile and in-studio spray tanning in Germantown and the Hudson Valley, customized for every age, skin tone, and lifestyle.

Book your next appointment here: sho-skin.com/book
Questions? DM me on Instagram @sho__skin__spray__tan