Will sunscreen or lotion affect my spray tan?
There are ingredients in many lotions and sunscreen formulas that can cause your tan to fade unevenly.
Try to avoid the following ingredients after your spray tan: Aerosols, Mineral Oil, Petroleum, Paraffins, Paraffinum Liquidum, Ceresine. Go for lower alcohol content as well.
Can I swim in the ocean with my spray tan?
Chlorine isn't an issue in the ocean, however any time you are soaking your skin, you are causing the top layers to soften. You can still swim, but be aware that the more you soften your skin, the faster the top layer separates and flakes away. You can counter this by swimming in small spurts, using a gradual tanner, or tan extender.
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Be aware that sand can also exfoliate your tan around your ankles, thighs, and buttox if you sit directly in the sand. You can still sit on the shore, just don't scoot around.
Can I go in the pool or hot tub with my spray tan?
As mentioned above, chlorine can affect your spray tan by causing the skin to dry out, which can cause the top layer of skin to exfoliate much faster. Soaking your skin causes the top layers to soften, and if done for extended periods, can cause the top layers to separate faster. The hot tub adds one more issue for your top layer of skin - heat. Intense heat can cause your skin to soften then dry out much faster than the pool.
There are ways to protect your tan and still enjoy the pool and hot tub on vacation, however. Rinsing off immediately after chlorine exposure can keep it from eating away at your skin cells (even after you are dry.) Limiting time in the hot tub or waiting until the end of your trip to soak in the spa is also a great idea. Consider bringing along a gradual tanner or spray tan extender for after your post-swim/spa shower is also an option.
Will a spray tan keep me from tanning on vacation?
NO! A spray tan offers ZERO sun protection whatsoever. You can still tan, and BURN! so be sure to use sunscreen! A spray tan is a cosmetic application that adheres to only the top layer of skin. If you burn and peel, your spray tan will peel off with it.
How long does a spray tan last?
5-7 Days on Average
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However, various factors can affect the longevity of your spray tan. Swimming, working out heavily, time of year (dry skin in winter, sweating in summer), skin type, etc.
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You can protect your spray tan by properly preparing your skin before your spray tan, adequately hydrating your body (H2O!) every day, avoiding exfoliating vigorously in the shower, moisturizing immediately after showering, avoiding excessive sweating, using a tan extender, rinsing off immediately after swimming in chlorine, avoiding hot tubs until the end of your vacation or once your tan starts to exfoliate naturally.
