Ever notice how quickly your beautiful, sun-kissed glow from a spray tan can fade? It’s frustrating when you spend time and money getting that perfect bronze, only to watch it wash away too soon. The secret to keeping that color vibrant isn’t just in the initial application; it’s what you use every single day afterward, especially your body wash.
Choosing the wrong soap is a common mistake that speeds up fading. Harsh ingredients strip the color right off your skin, leaving you patchy and dull. You want a body wash that cleans without attacking your fresh tan, but navigating the aisles filled with different formulas can feel overwhelming. Which ones are safe? Which ones will make your tan last longer?
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what ingredients to look for and which ones to avoid. Keep reading to discover the best body washes that will protect your investment and keep your spray tan looking flawless for days longer. Let’s make that glow stick around!
Top Body Wash To Use After A Spray Tan Recommendations
- TIGHTEN, TAN, AND TONE: Get summer-sexy skin that’s tight, tanned, and toned in one ultra-hydrating, routine-simplifying step! Proprietary, innovative, multi-tasking moisturizing mist sets and seals your sunless tanning application, while deepening and darkening DHA development for long-lasting, succulent, sun-kissed color.
- BRONZING WITH BENEFITS: This hydrofirm moisturizing spray seals the deal on your self-tanning application, while providing thirsty, parched skin with a beautifying blast of sumptuous, skin-smoothing hyaluronic acid and healing and hydrating aloe vera.
- GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TAN: Exclusive formula is your faux glow’s flawless finishing touch, as it expertly extends and amplifies your tan for days longer, while firming, lifting, and perfecting the skin. Essential for body-building show contestants that need that extra dose of double-duty DHA action.
- KIND TO SKIN HEALTH: Gentle, irritant-free, 100% vegan post tan moisturizer contains zero parabens, sulfates, and gluten.
- NEW LOOK, SAME FORMULA - The Norvell formula you’ve always loved in bold new packaging. With 40 years’ experience, Norvell delivers a natural glow. Our famous Norvell University offers award winning training to certified technicians worldwide.
- MAKE A CLEAN BREAK: Say so long to self-tan -sabotaging soap with this body-balancing, sulfate-free color optimizing body wash that will refresh and recharge your skin without letting your faux glow fade into the sunset.
- SCENT-SATIONAL: Sweet-smelling warm vanilla fragrance will instantly lift your mood, while leaving a subtle, scrumptious kiss of a sugar scent on skin.
- BAR NONE: Free of soap, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, GMOs, Triclosan, or synthetic fragrance that can irritate or upset skin’s natural pH balance.
- GENTLE ON SKIN: Moisture and essential extract -rich gentle body wash imparts a skin-perfecting pH balance that won’t strip skin of natural lipids, while prolonging the beauty and bronze of your immaculate, sun-kissed self tan.
- NEW LOOK, SAME FORMULA - The Norvell formula you’ve always loved in bold new packaging. With 40 years’ experience, Norvell delivers a natural glow. Our famous Norvell University offers award winning training to certified technicians worldwide.
- TAN REMOVER SCRUB. a body wash + scrub to erase that old tan so you can do it all again. buff away old tan and dead skin cells with gentle exfoliation & wash that stuff right down the drain. the body wash combo leaves you clean + smellin' oh so fresh. you'll be perfectly clean with your skin primed just in time for your next tan session
- STEP 1 IN YOUR TAN ROUTINE. use me as part of your regular self tanning routine and you’ll never look back
- 2-IN-1. the body wash combo leaves you feelin' + smellin' clean as can be
- BEST PRACTICE. to make your old tan go away wait at least 3 days after applying your self tan before using. apply generously & gently rub into a rich lather. makes your old tan go away, cleanses & preps your skin for the next bangin' tan.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i love animals so im cruelty free, vegan friendly, and free of nasties like parabens
- LOCKS IN MOISTURE AFTER SUN EXPOSURE - AfterBurn After-Shower Tan Recovery Spray seals in hydration the moment you towel dry. The lightweight continuous mist absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and comfortable without any greasy residue.
- HELPS MAINTAIN A VIBRANT-LOOKING TAN - Formulated with aloe vera, essential oils, and botanical extracts, our tan recovery spray helps reduce dryness that can lead to uneven-looking fade. Keeps your skin moisturized so your tan looks smooth and radiant.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & FAST-ABSORBING FORMULA - This hydrating body spray sinks in quickly so you can get dressed right away. Ideal for full-body application, including hard-to-reach areas, without the heaviness of traditional lotions.
- POWERED BY BOTANICAL EXTRACTS & ESSENTIAL OILS - Crafted with a doctor-formulated blend of 13 essential oils and plant extracts chosen to support soft, conditioned, and healthy-looking skin after time in the sun.
- EFFORTLESS POST-SHOWER SKIN CARE - Designed for daily use, this continuous spray makes after-sun care simple and mess-free. Apply generously and massage into skin to keep it feeling hydrated, refreshed, and comfortable.
- DARKEST RESULTS. i'm perfect for anyone looking for the darkest, darkest tan possible
- AIRBRUSHED TANNING MIST. tanning made easy. darkest 1 hour bronzing mist. spray on. get dark. glow on.
- 1 HOUR CURE TIME. 1 hour development time, leave on for 4+ hours for darker results
- PRO TIP: apply a moisturizer to elbows, knees + ankles before application. apply evenly (but not too thick) + blend thoroughly for the perfect bronzed glow. use with a mitt for ultra smooth results.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i love animals so im cruelty free, vegan friendly, and free of nasties like parabens
- FLAWLESS APPLICATION. set your tan up for success with our body and back mitt so you will never miss a spot
- DOUBLE SIDED & DURABLE. both mitts are made with velvety soft material for an even finish and to protect the hands from the nasty tan hand
- BODY MITT. the body mitt was created with a thumb placement for easier application
- BACK APPLICATOR. the back mitt is the perfect length with two handles for easy application
- PRO TIP: prepping the skin is essential to let these mitts do their job - exfoliate the skin properly, apply moisturizer to your elbows/wrists/hands/knees and feet, grab your favorite b.tan tanner and let our mitts work their magic
- BE A BRONZED GODDESS, 24 HOUR WASH OFF TAN: The answer to those “I need a tan” moments! Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning – 24-Hour Wash Off Tan provides you with instant sunless tan, making you feel like a bronzed goddess for a few hours, yet can easily be washed off in the shower! Suitable for those not into committing to spray tans or baking under the sun to get a nice bronze glow. This wash-off tanner is the one-night affair of your faux tanning dreams!
- MESS-FREE, LONG-LASTING TANNING FORMULA: Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning – 24-Hour Wash Off Tan offers salon-quality tanning with its airy mousse formula that effortlessly glides on skin for a smooth, streak-free tan that lasts for up to 24 hours without transferring to clothes. Perfect for getting an instant bronze and great for filling in tan lines or temporarily boosting an existing tan. Reach for this and revel in the glory of gorgeous, sun-kissed skin that lasts!
- WASHES OFF WITH SOAP AND WATER: From your arms down to your legs, Body Drench 24-Hour Wash Off Tan works to give you an illuminating complexion wherever it is applied. The best part? Unlike spray tans, if you feel like you’ve messed up when applying it, or it hasn’t gone evenly, you can quickly wash it off and start over! Simply wash it away with soap and water when the party’s over, or create a deeper and richer hue by re-applying to build your desired depth. Can it get any better?
- CONVENIENT, EASY TO APPLY TANNING MOUSSE: Put an end to your fake tan woes, and get an effortless faux glow with Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning – 24-Hour Wash Off Tan that allows you to get a flawless tan without the need to lay poolside! Perfect for a quick glow-up before a night out, it comes with a 360-degree nozzle for an easy, mess-free, and streak-free application. Simply apply to the body in circular motions one section at a time and get brilliant bronzing in a flash!
- MADE IN USA, 100 % CRUELTY-FREE SUNLESS TANNER: Picky when it comes to your faux pas glow application? Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning – 24-Hour Wash Off Tan is right for you! It is paraben-free and dermatologist-recommended, making it perfect for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin! Proudly made in the USA, vegan-friendly, and 100% cruelty-free too, so you can step into your favorite faux glow with confidence!
- ALOE VERA SPRAY: Cool down and hydrate after a long day in the sun with our refreshing spray. It's infused with aloe to help prevent peeling for a longer-lasting tan.
- MOISTURIZING PROTECTION: Packed with our signature blend of herbal extracts and plant-based ingredients to soothe and condition skin
- NON-GREASY AND LIGHTWEIGHT: A perfect formula for a daily body oil packed with natural plant extracts that won't leave you feeling sticky.
- SCENT: Fresh Citrus lemon zest, mint leaf and aloe, refreshing and soothing
- HEMPZ: Cruelty & allergen free – Hempz products are vegan, gluten free, paraben free, cruelty free & made in the USA
Choosing the Best Body Wash After Your Spray Tan
You just got a beautiful, sun-kissed spray tan. You want that glow to last! What you use to wash your body matters a lot. A regular soap can quickly fade your hard-earned color. This guide helps you pick the perfect body wash to keep your tan looking fresh and even.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look for specific things on the label. These features help protect your tan.
- Sulfate-Free Formula: Sulfates are strong cleaning agents. They often strip color. Choose washes labeled “Sulfate-Free.”
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Dry skin flakes faster. Flaking takes your tan with it. Look for ingredients like Shea Butter, Glycerin, or Aloe Vera. These keep skin hydrated.
- pH Balanced: A body wash that matches your skin’s natural pH level is gentler. This helps the DHA (the tanning ingredient) stay put longer.
- Clear or Lightly Colored Gel: Dark or heavily pigmented soaps might rub off the top layer of your tan. Clear or very pale washes are safer bets.
Important Ingredients to Seek Out (and Avoid)
The ingredients list tells the whole story. Good ingredients nourish. Bad ingredients erase.
Ingredients That Help Your Tan Last:
- Natural Oils (Lightweight): Jojoba or Coconut Oil (used sparingly) can lock in moisture.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like Vitamin E protect the skin surface.
- Gentle Surfactants: These are the cleaning parts. Look for gentler cleansers like Cocamidopropyl Betaine instead of harsh sulfates (like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or SLS).
Ingredients That Harm Your Tan:
- Harsh Exfoliants: Avoid body washes with beads, large salt crystals, or strong fruit acids (AHAs/BHAs) initially. These scrub color away.
- Alcohol: High alcohol content dries the skin quickly. Dry skin sheds color fast.
- Strong Fragrances: Sometimes, very strong perfumes contain drying agents.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the wash directly impacts your tan retention. A high-quality wash prioritizes hydration over deep cleaning.
What Improves Quality:
- Creamy Texture: Thicker, creamier washes often deposit more moisture while cleaning mildly.
- Good Reviews: Look for reviews from people who also use spray tans. They confirm if the product faded their color.
- Designed for Tan Maintenance: Some brands specifically create “Tan Extending Washes.” These often contain a tiny bit of bronzer or DHA to refresh the color slightly with each wash.
What Reduces Quality (and Your Tan):
- Over-Cleansing: Even with the best wash, scrubbing hard reduces quality. Use a soft washcloth or your hands only.
- Hot Water: Washing with very hot water opens pores and speeds up color loss. Use lukewarm water.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the body wash matters almost as much as what you buy.
Best Use Case: The First 24 Hours
After a fresh spray tan, most professionals advise you *not* to shower for 8 to 12 hours. When you do shower for the first time, use the mildest cleanser possible—sometimes just water is recommended. After that initial rinse, switch to your specialized post-tan body wash.
Daily Experience: Gentle Lather
When using the wash daily, focus on gentle application. Massage the product lightly onto the skin. Do not use harsh scrubbing mitts or loofahs for the first week of your tan. The goal is to clean dirt and sweat without lifting the pigment.
A good post-tan body wash should leave your skin feeling soft, not squeaky clean. Squeaky clean means dry, and dry means faded!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Body Wash After a Spray Tan
Q: When can I use body wash after my spray tan?
A: Wait until after your first official rinse, usually 8 to 12 hours after application. Then, start using your gentle, sulfate-free wash.
Q: Can I use my regular scented body wash?
A: It is not recommended. Strong perfumes and sulfates in regular washes often speed up fading. Stick to tan-safe options.
Q: Does bar soap ruin a spray tan?
A: Yes, bar soaps are often highly alkaline and very drying. They tend to strip the color off quickly. Avoid them completely while you have a spray tan.
Q: Should I exfoliate while using this specialized wash?
A: No! Exfoliation removes dead skin cells where the tan sits. Do not scrub or use loofahs until the tan starts to naturally fade.
Q: Is it okay if the body wash has some color in it?
A: Sometimes. If the wash is specifically designed to extend the tan, it might have a light bronzer. If it’s a standard wash, clear is best.
Q: Does ‘natural’ body wash always mean it is safe for my tan?
A: Not always. Check the ingredients. Some natural products use strong essential oils or acids that can still be drying or color-stripping.
Q: How often should I wash my body?
A: Wash as needed, but try to keep showers short and use lukewarm water. Over-washing causes faster fading.
Q: Can I use a washcloth with this product?
A: Yes, but use a very soft cloth or just your hands. Do not use rough scrubbing mitts or abrasive poufs.
Q: Will moisturizing body wash make my tan look streaky?
A: No. Moisturizing washes help your tan wear off evenly because they prevent dry patches from flaking off prematurely.
Q: What if I accidentally use the wrong soap?
A: Don’t panic! If you use a harsh soap once, immediately follow up with a very rich, hydrating lotion to help lock down the remaining color.