The 7 Habits That Ruin a Fresh Spray Tan (Please Stop Doing #3)
Save your glow! Avoid these 7 post-tan mistakes from hot showers and tight clothes to chlorine and retinol—so your tan fades evenlyYour tan didn’t “fail”—your routine did. Here’s exactly what to avoid so your color stays even and pretty all week.
1) Long Hot Showers & Baths
Heat lifts color. Keep early showers short and lukewarm. Steam rooms and saunas? Wait 24–48 hours.
2) Tight Clothing & Friction
Sports bras, leggings, socks, waistbands—these rub color when your tan is still setting. Choose loose, soft layers day 1–2.
3) Chlorine, Hot Tubs, and Ocean Days
They’re fun. They also speed fade. If you swim, rinse off ASAP and moisturize immediately.
4) Harsh Soaps & Oils
Swap to gentle, fragrance-free body wash. Avoid mineral-oil-heavy products that can break your tan unevenly.
5) Strong Actives Too Soon
AHA/BHA and retinoids are amazing—but they’re also exfoliants. Pause them for a couple of days post-tan, especially on the face, to keep your color even.
6) Over-Exfoliating Mid-Tan
Save the mitt attack for removal day. Over-scrubbing midweek creates patchiness.
7) Skipping Moisturizer
Hydrated skin = happy tan. Lotion a.m. and p.m. helps color fade like a soft watercolor, not a leopard print.
Quick Rescue Guide
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Lines from clothing: Next shower, let water run over the area, gently buff the edges with your hand, then moisturize and wear loose clothes.
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Patchy ankles/knees: Soak in lukewarm water for 10 minutes, use a mitt to lightly even, moisturize, and avoid heat.
Want a flawless fade? Book your tan and screenshot this checklist your future self will thank you.
