When to Moisturize After a Spray Tan (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)
Getting a spray tan is one of the fastest ways to feel confident and glowing—but how you care for your skin afterward can make or break your results. One of the most common questions we get at aussie glows is: "When should I start moisturizing after my spray tan?" Let’s break it down so you can enjoy your glow way longer.
🕐 The First 24 Hours: Hands Off!
After your spray tan, your skin is undergoing a very specific and delicate process. The active ingredient in spray tans—DHA (dihydroxyacetone)—reacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of your skin (the stratum corneum) to create that beautiful bronzed look. This reaction takes time—up to 24 hours—to fully develop, even after you’ve washed off the solution and/or cosmetic bronzer in the shower.
During this time, it's crucial that you do not apply any lotions, oils, deodorants, or perfumes. Why? Because any product you apply can act as a barrier or alter the pH of your skin, potentially interfering with how DHA develops. Even after your first rinse (2-4 hours following your tan with aussie glows), the color will continue to develop, so keep your skin free of products for the full 24-hour window.
💧 After 24 Hours: Hydration is EVERYTHING
Once that 24-hour window has passed, it’s time to moisturize like your glow depends on it—because it does!
Here’s why: your tan lives in that outermost layer of skin, which naturally sheds over time. If your skin gets dry, it flakes. And when it flakes, your tan goes with it. The secret to keeping your tan fresh for as long as possible is keeping your skin hydrated, both from the inside and the outside.
Hydrate from the Inside:
Water is your best friend. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin plump and hydrated from within. Dehydrated skin = faster fade.
Moisturize from the Outside:
Start applying moisturizer morning and night after the 24-hour development window.
Use spray tan-safe moisturizers—formulas that are free of sulfates, mineral oils, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances, which can strip your tan or cause it to become patchy.
🔍 What to Look for in a Spray Tan Safe Moisturizer
Look for:
Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and shea butter.
No harsh chemicals like parabens or phthalates.
Fragrance-free or naturally scented products to minimize irritation or tan breakdown.
Some of our favorite spray tan-safe moisturizers:
Naked Tan Crème de la Crème - Body butter specially formulated to extend the life of your tan.
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion – Lightweight, fragrance-free, and packed with ceramides.
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion – Oatmeal-based and ultra-soothing.
Hempz Original Herbal Body Moisturizer – Plant-based, free of all the nasties.
🚫 What to Avoid: The Glow-Killers That Dry Out Your Skin
Even if you’re moisturizing like a pro, certain habits and products can sneak in and sabotage your tan by drying out your skin. Here’s what to steer clear of to keep your glow intact:
🔥 Hot Showers & Baths
While a warm rinse is fine, long, hot showers or soaking in a bath can strip your skin of its natural oils. This leads to dryness, flaking, and faster fading. Stick to lukewarm water and try to keep your showers short while your tan is developing and setting in.
🧼 Harsh Soaps & Body Washes
Many mainstream soaps are packed with sulfates, alcohols, and synthetic fragrances—all of which can be extremely drying. These ingredients not only dehydrate your skin but can also break down the DHA that gives you your tan. Look for gentle, pH-balanced, and sulfate-free body washes made with nourishing oils or aloe.
🧽 Loofahs, Scrubs & Rough Towels
Aggressive exfoliation after your tan has developed will speed up the fading process. Avoid loofahs, body brushes, and gritty scrubs until you’re ready to fully remove your tan. Also, when drying off, pat your skin gently with a soft towel—never rub!
🧴 Alcohol-Based Products
Products like toners, acne treatments, and certain lotions contain alcohol, which zaps moisture from your skin in seconds. Double-check the ingredients list and opt for alcohol-free skincare until you’re ready for your next tan.
💨 Dry Air & Overexposure to A/C or Heaters
Whether it’s from winter heaters or summer A/C, climate-controlled environments can suck the moisture from your skin. Try using a humidifier at night, especially if you sleep with the A/C running. And don’t forget to drink water consistently throughout the day to fight dryness from the inside.
🏖 Pools, Oceans, & Chlorinated Water
Salt water and chlorine can be extremely drying and accelerate the fading of your tan. If you're planning to swim, apply a spray tan-safe, hydrating sunscreen beforehand. Look for formulas that are oil-free, water-resistant, and packed with moisturizing ingredients like aloe or shea butter. Not only will this protect your skin from the sun, but it will also act as a barrier to reduce dryness and help preserve your tan.🌿 Bonus Tip: Post-Tan Hydration Spray
If you have naturally dry skin, consider adding a post-tan hydration spray to your routine. These sprays add an extra layer of moisture right after your rinse and can help “seal in” your tan. Look for ones that are aloe-based or include coconut water for a fresh, skin-loving boost.
🌿 Bonus Tip: Post-Tan Hydration Spray
If you have naturally dry skin, consider adding a post-tan hydration spray to your routine. These sprays add an extra layer of moisture right after your rinse and can help “seal in” your tan. Look for ones that are aloe-based or include coconut water for a fresh, skin-loving boost.
🔄 Exfoliate to Prep for the Next Glow
Let’s not forget about exfoliation. It might seem counterintuitive when you’re trying to make your tan last, but gentle exfoliation is your long-term tan BFF.
Exfoliating before your spray tan gives you a fresh layer of skin for the DHA to bind to, resulting in a deeper, longer-lasting tan. Post-tan, exfoliation becomes important again only when you’re ready to remove the last of your tan and prep for the next one.
Regular exfoliation in between tans helps ensure each glow starts fresh—and that your tan wears off evenly rather than in patches.
Final Thoughts
To recap:
Don’t moisturize or apply anything for the first 24 hours.
After that? Hydration is key—inside and out.
Choose spray tan-safe moisturizers and hydrate daily.
Add a hydration spray if you’re prone to dryness.
Exfoliate wisely to prepare for and transition between tans.
Your glow is an investment—treat it that way! ✨
