The Best Spray Tan-Friendly Products: How to Make Your Glow Last Longer
You've invested in a beautiful custom spray tan—now it's time to protect it.
One of the most common questions we hear at Glow Girl Tanning is, "What products should I use after my spray tan?" The truth is that the products you use on your skin every day can make a huge difference in how long your tan lasts and how evenly it fades.
If you want your glow to stay fresh, radiant, and streak-free, here's your complete guide to spray tan-friendly products.
Why Product Choice Matters
Spray tans fade naturally as your skin sheds dead skin cells. Harsh products, drying ingredients, and oil-heavy formulas can speed up this process and cause uneven fading.
Choosing spray tan-safe products helps:
Extend the life of your tan
Keep skin hydrated
Prevent patchy fading
Maintain an even glow
Protect your investment
The #1 Rule: Hydration Is Everything
Moisturized skin holds a spray tan longer.
When skin becomes dry, it sheds faster, causing your tan to fade more quickly and unevenly.
We recommend applying a lightweight moisturizer daily, especially after showering.
Look for:
✔ Alcohol-free formulas
✔ Lightweight lotions
✔ Fragrance-free options when possible
✔ Products designed for sensitive skin
Avoid:
❌ Heavy oils
❌ Mineral oil
❌ Petroleum-based products
Best Body Washes for Spray Tans
Many body washes contain sulfates that strip the skin and accelerate fading.
Instead, choose gentle cleansers that cleanse without drying.
Look for:
Sulfate-free body washes
Sensitive skin formulas
Hydrating cleansers
Cream-based washes
Ingredients to avoid:
Sulfates
Exfoliating acids
Scrubbing beads
Harsh detergents
A gentle cleanser can add several extra days to the life of your spray tan.
Moisturizers We Love
A daily moisturizer is one of the best ways to preserve your tan.
Great options include:
Hempz Original Herbal Body Moisturizer
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
Norvell Body Butter
These products provide hydration without breaking down your spray tan.
Sunscreen Is Essential
A spray tan does not provide sun protection.
If you're spending time outdoors, always wear SPF.
Choose:
✔ Broad-spectrum SPF 30+
✔ Spray tan-safe formulas
✔ Oil-free sunscreens when possible
Protecting your skin also helps prevent uneven fading caused by sun exposure.
Products to Avoid After a Spray Tan
Some products are notorious for shortening the life of a spray tan.
Try to avoid:
Oil-Based Products
Excessive oils can break down spray tan color and cause premature fading.
Retinol and Anti-Aging Treatments
Retinol speeds up skin cell turnover and can quickly remove your tan.
Acne Treatments
Products containing:
Benzoyl peroxide
Salicylic acid
Glycolic acid
can fade your spray tan much faster.
Exfoliating Scrubs
Physical exfoliants remove the very skin cells holding your spray tan color.
Save exfoliation for when you're ready to remove your tan and prepare for your next appointment.
Lip and Face Products Matter Too
Your face naturally fades faster because of cleansing, skincare products, and environmental exposure.
To maintain facial color:
Use gentle cleansers
Avoid excessive exfoliation
Moisturize daily
Consider a facial tanning mist between appointments
Tan Extenders: Are They Worth It?
Absolutely.
Tan extenders are specifically designed to:
Add hydration
Extend the life of your tan
Promote even fading
Using a quality tan extender can often help your spray tan stay fresh for several additional days.
Ask your spray tan artist for recommendations based on your skin type and tanning solution.
Shower Tips for a Longer-Lasting Tan
How you shower matters just as much as what products you use.
For the best results:
✔ Use lukewarm water
✔ Pat skin dry instead of rubbing
✔ Keep showers shorter
✔ Moisturize immediately afterward
Avoid:
❌ Long hot showers
❌ Steam rooms
❌ Hot tubs
❌ Excessive chlorine exposure
The Glow Girl Tanning Product Checklist
For the longest-lasting spray tan, make sure your routine includes:
✓ Sulfate-free body wash
✓ Daily moisturizer
✓ Broad-spectrum SPF
✓ Gentle facial cleanser
✓ Tan extender (optional but recommended)
✓ Plenty of hydration
These simple changes can dramatically improve the appearance and longevity of your spray tan.
Ready to Get the Most Out of Your Glow?
A beautiful spray tan doesn't end when you leave your appointment. The products you use afterward play a major role in how your tan develops, lasts, and fades.
At Glow Girl Tanning, we're committed to helping our clients achieve gorgeous, natural-looking results from start to finish. If you're unsure whether a product is spray tan friendly, ask us at your next appointment—we're always happy to help!
Your perfect glow starts with the right products and a little extra care.
Spray Tanning Services in Central Virginia - Glow Girl Tanning proudly serves Richmond, Short Pump, Henrico, Midlothian, Goochland, Glen Allen, Chesterfield, and surrounding Central Virginia communities with custom spray tanning and mobile spray tanning services.
