You finally have that perfect, sun-kissed glow from your spray tan. It looks amazing! But now comes the tricky part: how do you keep that beautiful color from fading too fast? Many people accidentally wash their hard-earned tan away with the wrong soap. It’s frustrating to watch your bronze color disappear down the drain after just a few showers, isn’t it?
Choosing the right body wash after a spray tan is super important. Harsh soaps can strip the color right off your skin. You need something gentle that cleans without erasing your glow. Finding a body wash that keeps your tan vibrant while still making you feel clean can feel like a real puzzle.
Don’t worry! This guide breaks down exactly what you need to look for. We will show you the best types of body washes to use and which ingredients to avoid completely. Keep reading to learn the secrets to making your spray tan last longer and stay flawless.
Top Body Wash To Use After Spray Tan Recommendations
- 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.
- SELF TAN REMOVER. a body self tan eraser + 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. Suitable 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
- 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!
- L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Mist is a self-tanner that gives you a natural-looking medium shade tan without exposure to the sun
- This self-tanner is streak-free, quick-drying and gives you salon-inspired airbrush tanning results at home
- The 360 degree wide angle jet applicator provides continuous coverage for a 100 percent natural-looking tan
- This self-tanning super-fine mist applies evenly and dries quickly with no need to rub in; Sunless tan develops in 2-3 hours
- For best results, apply to clean and exfoliated skin; Use daily until you have achieved your desired level of tan, then use 1-2 times per week to maintain your tan
- NO MORE STICKY SELF TAN FEEL - Designed to reduce the sticky, tacky feeling after self tan so skin feels soft, dry, and more comfortable. Tan Fan's lightweight drying powder and huge soft body brush absorbs excess moisture and oil leaving skin silky smooth
- LIGHTWEIGHT, NATURAL BLEND, TALC-FREE, USA MADE QUALITY - Tan Fan crafts this powder to be lightweight + colorless to prevent blothes or streaks on your self tanner without feeling heavy, cakey, or drying.100% cruelty-free, vegan + mica-free making it safe for all skin types
- YOUR NEW SELF TANNING BESTIE - With huge ultra-soft eco-bamboo body brush designed to quickly dust powder across arms, legs, chest, and back after tanning. Lightly scented with coconut and great value 22-28 full-body applications and no white residue like baby powder.
- THE PERFECT PRE-SLEEP STEP - Use after applying self tan to absorb excess moisture and help your tan feel more wearable while developing overnight. Best paired with the Tan Fan Sleep Sac for overnight sheet protection
- TAN FAN GLOW GUARANTEE – Our support team is here 24/7 to make sure you’re glowing with confidence, satisfaction guaranteed.
- 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.
- GRADUAL GOLDEN GLOW. i'm a rich, hydrating gradual self tanning lotion butter perfect for skin that needs exxxtra hydration + a gorgeous golden self tan.
- SKIN LOVIN' INGREDIENTS. i'm infused with rich cupaçu butter, hyaluronic acid + vitamin c to hydrate and moisturize your skin daily. without the fake tan smell.
- BUILDABLE COLOR. use this self tanning lotion daily to prolong your natural tan color or to create your subtle golden glow from scratch. no orange tones.
- ZERO TRANSFER: Our bronzer free, transfer free formula means it won’t transfer onto your clothes or stain your sheets. make sure to rub it in reallllyyyy well to avoid streaks
- VEGAN FRIENDLY FORMULA: No fake tan smell, we love animals so no, we do not test on them. and we love your bod so we keep all the nasties out of our products, so you know your skin is getting well looked after.
Finding Your Perfect Post-Tan Body Wash
You just got a beautiful spray tan. You want that glow to last! The body wash you use right after is super important. This guide helps you pick the best one. It keeps your tan looking amazing for longer.
Key Features to Look For
Gentle Cleansing Power
Your skin needs to be clean, but not too clean! Look for washes that clean gently. Harsh soaps strip away your tan color too fast. A good wash removes sweat and dirt without fading the color.
Moisturizing Ingredients
Dry skin makes tans look patchy. A great post-tan wash adds moisture back in. Check the label for ingredients that hydrate your skin well. Hydrated skin holds color better.
Sulfate-Free Formula
Sulfates are strong cleaning agents. They are often found in regular body washes. Sulfates can definitely shorten your spray tan life. Always choose a body wash labeled “Sulfate-Free.”
pH Balanced
Your skin has a natural balance, called pH. Some soaps mess this up. A pH-balanced wash respects your skin’s natural state. This helps lock in the spray tan color.
Important Materials to Check
Natural Oils and Butters
Good ingredients include things like Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, or Jojoba Oil. These materials nourish your skin deeply. They make your tan look smooth and even.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Stay away from products with lots of perfumes or dyes. These extra things can sometimes react poorly with the tanning solution. Simple, clean ingredients are usually best for preserving your color.
Antioxidants are Beneficial
Ingredients like Vitamin E are antioxidants. They protect your skin. While they don’t directly save your tan, healthy skin holds any color better. They support overall skin health.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Wash Better?
Washes with natural humectants (things that draw water to the skin) improve quality. Low-lather formulas often work better too. Less foam means less scrubbing action, which saves your tan.
What Makes a Wash Worse?
High amounts of alcohol or strong exfoliants (like little scrubbing beads) seriously reduce quality. Exfoliating washes remove skin cells quickly. When you lose skin cells, you lose your tan color underneath!
User Experience and Use Cases
You should use this special body wash starting about 24 hours after your spray tan appointment. This gives the tan time to fully develop. Use it every day you shower.
The Shower Experience
When you use it, be gentle. Do not scrub your skin hard with a loofah or washcloth. Use your hands or a very soft cloth to lightly move the product around. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, not hot water. Hot water dries out skin fast.
Long-Term Use
Even after your tan fades, keep using this gentle wash! It is great for maintaining healthy, moisturized skin. This prepares your skin better for your next spray tan appointment.
Top 10 FAQs About Post-Tan Body Wash
Q: When should I use this special body wash for the first time?
A: Wait at least 8 to 12 hours after your spray tan, or follow your tanner’s exact instructions. Usually, you use it starting with your first shower after the initial development time.
Q: Can I use my regular shower gel?
A: No, try not to. Regular gels often have sulfates or strong soaps that break down the DHA (the tanning ingredient) very quickly.
Q: Does the color of the body wash matter?
A: Yes, if it has a lot of added dye or color, it might transfer slightly. Clear or lightly colored washes are safer choices to protect your fresh tan.
Q: Should I still exfoliate after my tan?
A: Avoid heavy scrubbing for the first few days. Use a very gentle wash. Gentle exfoliation is okay near the end of your tan life to help it fade evenly.
Q: What if my skin feels dry after using a gentle wash?
A: If your skin feels dry, immediately apply a rich, oil-free moisturizer after you towel off gently. Look for washes with added hyaluronic acid for extra hydration.
Q: Are “tan extender” washes better than plain gentle washes?
A: Tan extender washes have a little bit of tanning color added back in. They are great for daily maintenance, but they are not a replacement for a truly gentle, sulfate-free formula.
Q: Is it okay if the wash has a little bit of fragrance?
A: A very light, natural fragrance is usually fine. Strong, synthetic perfumes can sometimes irritate the skin or affect the tan slightly. Unscented is always the safest bet.
Q: How much body wash should I use each time?
A: Use only a dime-sized amount. You do not need much soap when you are trying to preserve your color. Less is definitely more!
Q: Will using this wash make my tan look streaky?
A: No, a good quality, gentle wash should not cause streaks. Streaks usually happen because of rough scrubbing or using a wash that is too harsh.
Q: Can I use this on my face too?
A: For your face, it is often better to use a dedicated gentle facial cleanser. The skin on your face is thinner and reacts differently than the skin on your body.