Spring break is almost here, which means sunny beach days, poolside lounging, and plenty of fun in the water. But if you’ve got a fresh spray tan, there’s one thing you need to watch out for—chlorine. While swimming is a great way to cool off, chlorine exposure can cause your tan to fade faster than expected.
Spray tanning is more than just a way to get color—it’s a beauty ritual that enhances your confidence and gives you a natural, sun-kissed glow.
Don’t worry, though—we’ve got all the tips you need to keep healthy skin and your glow going strong and, no matter your skin type.
Introduction to Spray Tanning
Spray tanning has become a popular alternative to traditional sunbathing, offering a gorgeous sun-kissed glow without the risks associated with UV rays. Instead of spending hours if the sun, you can achieve a bronzed complexion in just a few minutes with a professional spray tan or an at-home self tanner. The magic behind spray tans lies in the active ingredient DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which reacts with dead skin cells on the surface of your skin to create a natural-looking tan. Because the color develops on the outermost layer of skin, it’s important to moisturize regularly and avoid scrubbing to keep your tan looking fresh. Whether you’re prepping for a special event or just want to enjoy a radiant glow, spray tanning is a safe and effective way to get that sun kissed look—no prolonged exposure to the sun or swimming pools required. To make your tan last, remember to limit time in chlorinated water and care for your skin with gentle, hydrating products.
How Chlorine Impacts Your Spray Tan
While taking a dip in the pool won’t immediately wash away your sunless tan, prolonged exposure to chlorine can lead to dryness, uneven fading, and dull-looking skin. Chlorine strips away natural oils, leaving your skin dehydrated, which can make your tan appear patchy or fade prematurely. To maintain your glow, it’s essential to focus on your skin care routine, especially skin hydration and protective skincare practices.
Additionally, chlorine can disrupt your skin barrier, which plays a crucial role in retaining moisture and keeping your skin healthy. A compromised skin barrier makes it harder for your tan to stay even and last longer. That’s why using skin care products designed to protect and repair the skin is key to maintaining both your tan and overall skin health.
While spray tans provide a bronzed look, they do not protect against UV rays, so it’s important to use sunscreen to prevent skin damage from sun exposure.
Effects of Water on Tan Longevity
Water exposure plays a big role in how long your spray tan will last. While a quick shower with fresh water won’t do much harm, spending extended time in swimming pools or the sea can cause your tan to fade faster. Chlorinated water, in particular, has a drying effect on the skin, which can strip away old skin cells and speed up the fading process. This can lead to uneven fading or a patchy tan, especially if you’re swimming often. Salt water from the ocean can also act as a natural exfoliant, causing your tan to wear off more quickly in certain areas. To help your spray tan survive and maintain its color, try to limit prolonged exposure to pools and salt water, moisturize regularly, and always pat your skin dry instead of rubbing after showers or swims. By taking these simple steps, you can extend the longevity of your spray tan and enjoy a beautiful, even glow for days to come.
Tips to Keep Your Glow Poolside
Want to enjoy the pool without sacrificing your spray tan? These tips will help you maintain an even tan across your entire body, from application to aftercare:
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
The key to long-lasting color is skin hydration. Dry skin fades faster, so keep your skin nourished with a hydrating moisturizer like HYDRATE. This powerful formula locks in moisture, keeping your tan smooth and even. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which is known for its ability to draw moisture into the skin and keep it plump and hydrated. Apply HYDRATE before and after swimming to minimize chlorine’s drying effects. Remember to moisturise after swimming to help prolong your tan’s appearance.
2. Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen, always! While sunscreen won’t prevent chlorine from affecting your tan, it’s essential for skin health and protecting your skin from sun exposure. Choose an oil-free, broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Sun damage can cause premature fading of your tan and compromise your skin barrier, making it more prone to dryness. Opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog pores or interfere with your tan’s appearance.
3. Rinse Off After Swimming
After taking a dip, rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible. If you want to swim in a swimming pool, opt for quick dips rather than long swims to help preserve your tan. This helps remove chlorine and saltwater, preventing them from drying out your skin and affecting your tan’s longevity. Follow up with a hydrating body wash like that contains aloe vera, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture and keep your skin feeling soft and refreshed.
4. Use a Gentle, Hydrating Skincare Routine
Stick to gentle, sulfate-free skincare products that won’t strip your skin. Avoid harsh exfoliants, and opt for hydrating body washes and lotions to maintain your tan and support overall skin health. Look for skin care products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and antioxidants to keep your skin barrier strong and resilient.
5. Moisturize with the Right Products
Keeping your skin moisturized is one of the most effective ways to prevent your tan from fading prematurely. Choose skin products that are free from alcohol and harsh chemicals, as these can dry out your skin. A hydrating lotion with hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and vitamin E will help lock in moisture and keep your glow intact. Apply moisturizer at least twice a day, especially after showering and swimming.
Regular moisturizing can help prolong the life of your spray tan by keeping your skin hydrated and preventing uneven fading.
6. Drink Plenty of Water
Hydrating from the inside out is just as important as topical hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin plump, healthy, and glowing. When your body is properly hydrated, your skin barrier functions optimally, helping your tan last longer and look more even.
The Best Skin Care Products to Protect Your Glow
To maximize your spray tan’s longevity, it’s important to use the right skin care products that focus on hydration, nourishment, and protection. Here are some must-haves:
- HYDRATE Moisturizer – Packed with hyaluronic acid and nourishing ingredients, this lotion helps lock in moisture and keep your tan even. PRO Tip: use it after you wash your face.
- Broad Spectrum Sunscreen – An oil-free SPF 30+ sunscreen like Bask protects against sun exposure and prevents premature fading.
- Hydrating Body Wash – A sulfate-free cleanser infused with aloe vera and glycerin to gently cleanse without stripping moisture.
- After-Sun Spray – Helps soothe and hydrate skin after long days in the sun or pool.
- Self tanners – These sunless tanning products, such as mousses, creams, and moisturizers, are convenient for at-home use and can help maintain your fake tan between spray tan sessions, especially if water exposure or chlorine causes fading or patchiness.
Professional tanners play a key role in achieving an even, long-lasting tan by ensuring expert application and proper aftercare guidance.
Keep Your Glow All Spring Break Long
Chlorine may be a tan-fading culprit, but with the right skincare products and hydration-focused routine, you can enjoy the pool without worrying about losing your glow. Activities like baths, hot tubs, and soaking in water can cause your tan to fade faster by softening the skin and stripping away color. Heat and sweating can also contribute to faster fading and uneven color, as open pores and perspiration accelerate tan deterioration. To prolong the life and color of your tan, rinse off sweat promptly and avoid prolonged heat exposure whenever possible. Protect your skin barrier, use broad spectrum sunscreen, and keep your skin hydrated with the right skin care products. Pack HYDRATE, drink lots of water, and take care of your skin, so your spray tan stays fresh and flawless all vacation long.
Ready to glow all spring break? Stay hydrated, protect your skin, and let your tan shine!
