Imagine stepping out, glowing with that perfect sun-kissed look, only to watch it fade unevenly just a few days later. That beautiful spray tan deserves the best care to last! Many people think the hard part is over once they leave the tanning booth, but what you apply afterward truly matters. Choosing the wrong lotion can either lock in that gorgeous color or, worse, make it disappear before its time.
The sheer number of lotions claiming to be “tan extenders” can feel overwhelming. Do you need something oil-free? Should it be thick or light? These small choices cause big worries about patchy fading and dullness. You invested time and money in that golden hue, and now you need simple answers to keep it looking fresh and flawless.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what your post-tan skin craves. You will learn the secrets to maintaining that vibrant glow for as long as possible, avoiding common mistakes that sabotage your color. Get ready to discover the perfect partner for your spray tan!
Top Lotion To Use After 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.
- ENHANCING SPRAY TAN PRIMER – Prep your skin with the Norvell Glow System Pre-Tan Enhancing Primer! Step one of our Glow System regimen, this smooth primer lotion is designed to balance pH levels of your skin to intensify your spray tan.
- NATURAL COLOR COMPLEX – Infused with natural ingredients, the pre-spray tanning lotion protects and nourishes a lasting tan. Vitamin E in the moisturizing lotion helps block free radicals from skin to reduce wrinkles and keep the skin youthful-looking.
- HYDRATING – Aloe Leaf Juice in the pre-tanning primer moisturizes skin to help with anti-aging. Tomato Seed Extract enables skin to absorb oxygen and prevent signs of aging. The pre-tan lotion’s Vitamin C stimulates collagen to tighten and smooth skin.
- EASY TO APPLY – Blend the pre-tan primer evenly over desired areas before tanning. For best results, use the Glow System regimen. It helps you to prep your skin pre-spray tan, use the proper products during your spray tan, and extend your glow post-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.
- GET A NATURAL TAN FASTER – Naturally deepen your tan in 3–5 days with Citrus Aurantium Dulcis extract to stimulate melanin—no bronzers or dyes needed.Fast-absorbing lotion leaves no sticky or oily residue — just soft, smooth skin ready for the sun or after-sun care.
- CITRUS EXTRACT TO BOOST MELANIN & SPEED UP TANNING – Powerful Citrus antioxidant blend promotes tyrosinase activity to accelerate tanning and boost skin glow.
- SOOTHING ALOE VERA & VITAMIN E FOR HYDRATED SKIN – Aloe Vera, Panthenol & Vitamin E combine to hydromoisturize and repair skin post-sun—perfect for soothing after sunburn.
- PARABEN FREE, LIGHTLY SCENTED – Formulated in the UK with paraben‑free, lightly scented ingredients—cruelty‑free and ideal for all skin types, even sensitive.
- IDEAL FOR BEFORE & AFTER SUN USE, YEAR-ROUND GLOW – Use daily: pre-exposure to intensify tanning, post-exposure to prolong glow and prevent peeling—year-round tan extender. Important: Not a sunscreen. Always apply SPF 30+ before sun exposure.
- FACE LOTION – Build a gradual tan or extend your glow with the Norvell Glow System Post-Tan Face Lotion! This silky lotion for face helps improve skin's texture and hydration. The Glow System regimen perfects your pre-, during, and post-spray tan routine.
- NATURAL COLOR COMPLEX – Infused with natural ingredients, the post-spray tanning lotion protects and nourishes a lasting tan. Vitamin E in the moisturizing lotion helps block free radicals from skin to reduce wrinkles and keep the skin youthful-looking.
- HYDRATING – Aloe Leaf Juice in the post-tanning lotion moisturizes skin to help with anti-aging. Tomato Seed Extract enables skin to absorb oxygen and prevent signs of aging. The post-tan lotion’s Vitamin C stimulates collagen to tighten and smooth skin.
- EASY TO APPLY – Apply the after tanning lotion evenly over gently cleansed face and neck in a smooth, circular motion. Wash hands immediately after use. Avoid water for 4-8hrs. Use the tan extender lotion daily to build a gradual tan or extend your glow.
- 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.
- Get A Radiant Tan Guilt-free! Our Blend Of Pure, Organic Ingredients Extends Your Sunless Glow. Made In The Usa, No Harmful Additives, Just Natural Goodness: Organic Aloe Vera, Oils (argan, Olive, Jojoba, Avocado), Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamins B2, B5, B12. Vegan & Sealed For Safety.
- Enhance Your Beauty With Our Fade-fighting Formula! Extend Your Gorgeous Tan From Any Source - self-tanner, Spray, Or Sun. Also Doubles As A Superb Daily Moisturizer, Leaving Skin Soft And Tan Lasting Up To 3 Days More. No Fake Tan Smell, Non-comedogenic, And Non-sticky.
- The Proper Gift For Her Awaits! Impress With Our Organic Tan Extender Lotion, Loved By Many For Its Radiant Results. Personalize With A Heartfelt Message For Your Girlfriend, Wife, Mom, Sister, Or Friend.
- Essential For Frequent Tanners! Ensure Longer-lasting, Even Fades With Our Tan Extender Moisturizer. Formulated To Complement Our Self-tanning Oil, It Enhances Results, Reduces Break-up, And Improves Fade. Note: Not A Standalone Self-tanner Due To Lower DHA Percentage.
- Suitable For All Skin Types, Including Sensitive Ones. Achieve A Radiant, Sun-kissed Glow Year-round With Our Organic Self-tanning Oil And Tan Extender Lotion.
- INSANELY DARK UV TANNING LOTION. i boost + accelerate natural tanning results to the darkest level thanks to x4000 tanning intensifiers
- x4000 TANNING INTENSIFIERS. i'm made with peptides to help boost skin melanin levels while activating + accelerating the tanning process
- SO MOISTURIZING. i’m juiced up with acai berry to leave your skin feeling soft + supple
- EASY TO USE. apply lotion liberally + evenly to your whole body before sun or UV bed exposure. re-apply as necessary.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i'm free of nasties and i love animals so i'm vegan + cruelty free
- COOL DOWN ALOE VERA LOTION. We like to prevent sunburns, but if you get one, our soothing Aloe lotion is a lifesaver. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this natural after sun mixture instantly nourishes and prevents peeling of sun damaged skin.
- SOOTHING SUNBURN RELIEF. So you got greedy and burned your skin. Calm and treat your sunburn with our “Cool Down” lotion, formulated with Vitamin E and Cocoa Butter to ease your after sun pain.
- HOW TO USE. After sun exposure, apply generously to all areas of the skin. For best results, apply right after sunburn occurs or before sun exposure. Sonny’s Tip: Keep it refrigerated for a bonus relief.
- PRESERVE AND INTENSIFY YOUR TAN. Our Cool Down lotion gives your skin an extra boost to lock in and maintain your new tan. The light, non-greasy formula is quickly absorbed, leaving the skin smooth and soft; Cruelty Free
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean. It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
- HAWAIIAN TROPIC BODY LOTION may help extend your tan for a longer-lasting glow
- MADE WITH COCOA BUTTER + SHEA BUTTER hydrates and smooth skin; provides 12-hour skin hydration with a lightweight texture
- PACKED WITH BOTANICALS offers care as a moisturizer for dry skin
- THOUGHTFULLY FORMULATED – cruelty free + PETA certified; dermatologist-tested body lotion
- ICONIC HAWAIIAN TROPIC SCENT
Choosing the Best Lotion After Your Spray Tan: A Buyer’s Guide
You’ve got that beautiful, sun-kissed glow from your spray tan. Now, the real secret to keeping it looking amazing is choosing the right lotion! Using the wrong product can fade your tan fast or make it look patchy. This guide helps you pick the perfect post-tan moisturizer.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look for specific qualities that help maintain your color. These features make a big difference in how long your tan lasts.
1. Hydration Power
- Deep Moisturizers: Look for ingredients like Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, or natural oils. These keep the skin soft. Dry skin flakes off faster, taking your tan with it.
- Non-Greasy Feel: A good lotion absorbs quickly. You don’t want to feel sticky or oily after applying it.
2. Tan Extending Ingredients
- Bronzers or Hue Enhancers: Some lotions contain slight cosmetic bronzers. These give you an immediate boost of color while the main tanning agents work.
- Gradual Tan Elements: Many post-tan lotions include a small amount of DHA (the active tanning ingredient). This helps your tan deepen slightly each day, blending any fading areas.
3. Formulation Safety
- Oil-Free or Water-Based: This is crucial. Oils break down the DHA chemicals in your spray tan, causing it to fade unevenly. Always choose oil-free formulas.
- Scent Profile: Pay attention to the smell. Some people dislike the slight “biscuity” smell that can linger after a spray tan. Look for light, fresh scents or unscented options.
Important Materials to Check
The ingredients list tells you everything about how the lotion will treat your fresh tan. Know what helps and what hurts.
Top Beneficial Ingredients:
- Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient pulls moisture into the skin, keeping the surface smooth and the tan even.
- Antioxidants (like Vitamin E): These protect your skin cells and help the tan stay vibrant longer.
- Natural Extracts: Aloe Vera is excellent for soothing skin after the tanning process.
Ingredients to Avoid:
These ingredients actively fight against your spray tan:
- Alcohols (especially drying types): They dry out the skin quickly.
- Mineral Oil or Petroleum Jelly: These heavy ingredients can strip color.
- Harsh Fragrances or Dyes: These can sometimes irritate skin that has just been treated with tanning solution.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the lotion directly impacts your tan’s lifespan.
Quality Boosters:
- Consistency: Thicker creams generally offer better long-term moisture than very thin lotions.
- pH Balance: A lotion formulated close to the skin’s natural pH level helps the tan adhere better and fade more gracefully.
Quality Reducers:
- Exfoliating Agents: Avoid lotions that list AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) or BHAs immediately after a tan. These are meant to slough off dead skin, which you do not want to do while your tan is fresh.
- Heavy Sunscreens: While you need sunscreen outdoors, some older formulas can interact poorly with DHA. Use a dedicated, spray-tan-safe sunscreen once your initial development time is over.
User Experience and Use Cases
When and how you use the lotion matters just as much as what it is.
When to Apply:
Wait at least 8 to 24 hours after your spray tan appointment before applying any moisturizer. This allows the DHA to fully develop. After that, apply lotion twice daily—morning and night. This constant hydration locks in the color.
Best Use Cases:
- Daily Maintenance: Use the lotion daily to keep skin supple.
- Targeting Dry Spots: Apply an extra layer to elbows, knees, and hands, as these areas tend to fade first.
- Travel: If you travel to dry climates, pack your specialized lotion. Dry airplane air can suck the color right out of your tan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When is the very first time I should use lotion after my spray tan?
A: Wait until after your first shower, usually 8 to 24 hours post-application. Applying it too soon can disrupt the tanning process.
Q: Can I use my regular body lotion?
A: You can, but only if you check the label. If your regular lotion contains oils or exfoliating acids, it will cause your tan to look streaky. Stick to a dedicated “tan extender” or a known oil-free moisturizer.
Q: Do I need a special lotion if I want my tan to last longer?
A: Yes. Lotions specifically made for spray tans often include ingredients that mimic the tanning agents, helping to refresh the color as you moisturize.
Q: What if my lotion feels greasy?
A: Greasy lotions usually mean they are heavy in oils or butters. This is bad for longevity. Try applying a small amount and gently massaging it in completely, or switch to a lighter, gel-based extender.
Q: Should I use a lotion with a slight tint?
A: Tinted lotions are great! They give your skin an immediate boost of color, helping to camouflage any slight fading that occurs between your tanning sessions.
Q: How much lotion should I use?
A: Use a dime-sized amount for each limb or body section. It is better to apply a thinner layer twice than a thick layer once. Too much product can cause buildup.
Q: Can I use this lotion on my face?
A: Check the bottle. Facial skin is more sensitive. If the lotion is too heavy, it might clog pores. Many people prefer a dedicated, lighter facial moisturizer or a specialized facial tanning drops mixed into their regular face cream.
Q: Does sunscreen stop my lotion from working?
A: No, sunscreen will not stop your moisturizer from working. However, you must ensure the sunscreen itself is oil-free and safe for spray tans, as many traditional sunscreens contain oils that break down your color.
Q: How does a lotion help if my tan is already fading?
A: If your tan is fading, the lotion helps by evening out the texture of your skin. When skin is dry, fading looks rough. Constant hydration makes the fading process look like a natural, gradual fade rather than patchy disappearance.
Q: Is it okay to use scented lotions?
A: Mild, natural scents are usually fine. However, very strong artificial perfumes can sometimes dry out the skin or interact with the tan. If you are worried, choose an unscented or very lightly scented option.