Tan Treatment Do’s and Don’ts from Skincare Experts

A sun-kissed glow can boost your confidence like nothing else—but achieving and maintaining that perfect tan requires more than just lying under the sun or booking a spray tan session. Whether you're prepping for a vacation or simply craving that golden hue, it's crucial to understand the do’s and don’ts of tan treatments. In this guide, skincare experts break down everything you need to know about how to maintain tan treatments—from preparation to aftercare—so your glow lasts longer, fades evenly, and keeps your skin healthy.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How to Maintain Tan Treatments?”, this article is your complete roadmap.

Understanding Tan Treatments: What Are Your Options?

Before diving into care tips, let’s explore the most popular types of tan treatments:

1. Spray Tanning (Airbrush Tan)

A salon-applied, DHA-based mist that darkens the skin temporarily.

2. Self-Tanners

At-home lotions, mousses, or creams containing DHA for a bronzed look.

3. Tanning Beds

UV-based machines that simulate the sun’s effect on melanin production (not generally recommended due to skin cancer risks).

4. Natural Tanning (Sun Exposure)

Lying in the sun to stimulate natural melanin production—though it comes with risks if unprotected.

Each treatment requires a different level of prep and post-care to ensure long-lasting results. Here's where expert-backed do’s and don’ts come into play.

Pre-Tan Prep: What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Do

Do: Exfoliate Gently

Gently exfoliating 24 hours before your tan helps remove dead skin cells, allowing the tan to adhere more evenly and last longer.

Don’t: Shave or Wax Right Before

Shaving or waxing can irritate the skin. Always do this at least 24–48 hours before your appointment or self-tanning session.

Do: Moisturize Dry Areas

Elbows, knees, and ankles tend to absorb more product. Lightly moisturize these areas to prevent uneven coloration.

Don’t: Apply Makeup, Perfume, or Deodorant

These can create a barrier that prevents proper tan absorption and may cause streaks or patches.

Post-Tan Care: Tips to Extend Your Glow

Knowing how to maintain tan treatments properly can make all the difference between a radiant bronze and a blotchy fade.

Do: Wait Before Showering

After a spray tan, wait at least 6–8 hours before rinsing. DHA needs time to develop fully.

Don’t: Take Long, Hot Showers

Hot water strips away skin's natural oils and fades the tan faster. Opt for short, lukewarm showers instead.

Do: Use a Gentle, Sulfate-Free Body Wash

Harsh soaps and scrubs break down the tan quickly. Use a mild, pH-balanced cleanser instead.

Don’t: Rub Skin Dry

Pat your skin dry with a soft towel—never rub—as friction can lead to uneven fading.

Do: Moisturize Daily

Hydrated skin keeps your tan even and helps maintain its depth. Use oil-free moisturizers to avoid breaking down DHA.

Lifestyle Do’s and Don’ts for Long-Lasting Tan

Maintaining your tan also means adjusting your daily habits slightly.

Do: Drink Plenty of Water

Internal hydration reflects on your skin. Well-hydrated skin holds a tan better and appears more radiant.

Don’t: Hit the Pool Too Soon

Chlorine is a tan killer. Limit swimming, especially in the first 48 hours post-tan.

Do: Wear Loose, Dark Clothing After Tanning

This prevents staining and allows the tan to set without friction.

Don’t: Sweat Excessively

Avoid intense workouts for at least a day after tanning, as sweat can disrupt the tan development.

Products That Help Maintain Tan Treatments

Using tan-enhancing and tan-extending products can significantly improve your results.

• Gradual Tanning Lotions: These contain low levels of DHA to build or maintain color over time.

• Bronzing Body Butters: Offer a subtle shimmer while keeping your skin nourished.

• Tan Extenders with Aloe or Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrate and prolong the tan’s life.

Be sure to check labels and avoid products with alcohol or retinoids, which can speed up fading.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After Tan Treatments

Even with the best intentions, small mistakes can sabotage your results:

• Over-Exfoliating: While exfoliation is key before tanning, doing it too often afterward causes patchiness.

• Using Retinol or Acne Products: Ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or glycolic acid break down tan color rapidly.

• Forgetting Sunscreen: A fake tan does not provide sun protection. Always wear SPF, especially when outdoors.

How to Maintain Tan Treatments? Expert Insights

Dermatologists and skincare pros agree that hydration and gentle care are non-negotiable when it comes to preserving your tan. Here’s what they recommend:

• Stick to a moisturizing routine twice daily.

• Reapply gradual tanner every 3–4 days to maintain a consistent glow.

• Consider dry brushing lightly before your next tan to ensure even fading and reapplication.

• Avoid exfoliating scrubs that contain oils—these break down DHA faster.

Knowing how to maintain tan treatments the right way ensures your skin stays bronzed and beautiful, not blotchy or dry.

When to Refresh or Remove Your Tan

If your tan starts looking uneven, it may be time to either reapply or remove and restart.

To Refresh:

Use a gradual tanner or touch-up spray. Always exfoliate lightly before reapplication.

To Remove:

Use a tan remover or soak in a warm bath with baking soda and baby oil, then exfoliate gently.

Conclusion: Keep That Glow Going Strong

Getting a tan is easy—but maintaining it requires dedication. From pre-tan prep to post-tan care, understanding the essentials of how to maintain tan treatments ensures you enjoy a long-lasting, flawless glow. Follow these expert-backed do’s and don’ts to avoid common pitfalls and flaunt radiant skin all season long.

So the next time you book a tan, remember: It’s not just about the color—it’s about the care.