7 Ways to Make Your Spray Tan Last Longer This Summer
There’s nothing better than stepping out with a fresh, flawless spray tan, especially in the middle of summer. But between pool days, beach trips, and warm-weather outfits, your golden glow can fade faster than you’d like.
At Apres Soleil, we want you looking sun-kissed all season long, so we’re sharing our top 7 spray tan aftercare tips, plus our favorite spray tan–safe products you can grab right here in our boutique.
1. Prep Your Skin Before Your Appointment
A longer-lasting tan starts before you step into the spray booth. Exfoliate with a mitt to remove dead skin cells so your spray tan applies evenly and fades naturally.
For best results, exfoliate the day before your appointment (not the day of) so your skin has time to calm and your pores can fully close. Avoid oil-based scrubs, they can leave a residue that blocks the tanning solution.
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2. Wear Loose, Dark Clothing After Your Tan
Right after your spray tan, your skin needs time to fully develop without friction. Tight clothing can cause streaks or rub marks. Stick with flowy dresses, oversized tees, or joggers in dark colors.
Pro tip: Avoid bras, socks, or anything with elastic for the first few hours.
3. Skip the Workout (Just for a Day!)
Sweat is the enemy of a fresh tan. Wait at least 24 hours before doing high-intensity workouts or taking hot yoga to keep your tan from developing unevenly.
4. Use a Sulfate-Free Body Wash
Harsh cleansers can strip your color. Instead, use a gentle, spray tan–friendly body wash to cleanse without fading your glow.
5. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
The more moisturized your skin, the longer your tan will last. Dry skin sheds faster, taking your color with it. Apply lotion morning and night, focusing on areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.
Don’t forget to hydrate from the inside out, too! Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin supple and your tan looking fresh.
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6. Avoid Long, Hot Showers
We know, steamy showers feel amazing. But hot water speeds up skin cell turnover and fades your tan faster. Opt for lukewarm showers, and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing.
7. Boost Your Glow with a Gradual Tanner
When your tan starts to fade, bring it back to life with a gradual tanning lotion. This keeps your color fresh between appointments.
The Bottom Line
With the right spray tan care routine and the best spray tan safe products, you can keep your summer glow going strong for up to 10 days (sometimes more!).
Need to restock your aftercare essentials? Stop by the Apres Soleil boutique or shop online to grab everything you need for a flawless, long-lasting tan.
or shop all our favorite post-tan essentials.