There’s nothing quite like the confidence that comes from stepping out of a spray tan session with that fresh, flawless sun-kissed glow. But achieving a long-lasting result isn’t just about what happens inside the studio, because what you do afterward truly locks in your radiance.
Whether it’s your first spray tan or you’re a seasoned glow-getter, understanding proper aftercare is crucial. The difference between a patchy fade and a week-long summer glow often comes down to how you moisturize, when you shower, and the products you apply after tanning. Your professional spray tan specialist has given you the perfect canvas. Now it’s your turn to maintain the masterpiece with the right routine, hydration, and skin care practices.
This guide breaks down post-tan showering rules, hydrating products to use (and avoid), the biggest mistakes to dodge, and even a few glow-saving recovery tips.
So let’s dive in and keep that glow going strong.
Before You Glow: Quick Pre-Tan Reminders
Yes, this is a post-tan guide, but a few essential pre-tan notes can save your glow before it even begins. Every radiant result starts with proper prep.
Exfoliation is Non-Negotiable
Your tan develops on the outermost layer of skin, so getting rid of dead skin cells before your session is critical.
- Use an exfoliating mitt like goGLOW’s EXFOLIATE Mitt and a gentle body scrub 24 hours before your appointment. This smooths out your skin type and helps your tan develop evenly with no patchiness and no flaking.
- Avoid oil-based exfoliators or anything with mineral oils, as they leave residue behind that can repel your spray tanning solution.
Hair Removal Timing Matters
If you plan on shaving or waxing, do so at least 24–48 hours beforehand. This gives your skin time to calm, so your airbrush spray tan application won’t cling unevenly or darken freshly shaved areas.
Dress for Glow-Success
When heading to the studio, wear:
- Loose, dark clothing—think oversized tees, maxi dresses, and sandals.
- Avoid tight outfits (like leggings, underwire bras, or synthetic fabrics), because they can cause friction and interfere with your developing bronzer.
- At goGLOW, underwear is optional for women, or they can wear dark-colored undergarments or swimwear. Men are required to wear dark-colored underwear or swim bottoms during their session. This policy ensures hygiene, modesty, and a consistent, even tan across the entire body.
The First 24 Hours After Your Spray Tan
The tanning process doesn’t stop as soon as you walk out of the studio. The first day post-session is when the magic (and possible mistakes) happen. Here’s your detailed aftercare roadmap.
Timing Your First Shower
Follow the exact instructions your certified artist gives you.
- Single: For traditional solutions, wait 12–24 hours before your first rinse.
- Rapid: If you chose the Rapid goGLOW formula, you can rinse after 3–5 hours.
Stick to cool to lukewarm water, as hot water or long showers can open pores, strip the bronzer, and disrupt development. It is highly recommended that you refrain from rubbing your skin during your first rinse, which means avoiding body wash unless specifically instructed to do so. Gently rinse the bronzer off and pat your skin dry, but never rub.
Moisturize Smart, Not Hard
Once your skin is fully dry post-shower, begin applying an oil-free moisturizer.
Hydration is everything: it keeps your glow smooth, slows fading, and prevents streaky wear-off.
We recommend using goGLOW’s HYDRATE, packed with electrolytes and skin-loving botanicals, or layering in a tan extender like goGLOW’s EXTEND lotion to deepen and prolong your color.
Sleep in Glow-Safe Style
- Wear dark, long-sleeved sleepwear the first night and skip light-colored sheets—bronzer can transfer to them.
- And keep cool, so that means no hot yoga, sweaty workouts, or hot tubs just yet.
How to Make Your Glow Last: Ongoing Spray Tan Aftercare
Your spray tan doesn’t just fade, but wears off gradually as your skin naturally exfoliates. That’s why proper maintenance matters just as much as the initial session. Here’s how to keep your glow fresh, even, and long-lasting.
Moisturize Daily—Here’s How
Dry skin can cause uneven fading and shorten the life of your tan. Moisturizing daily is non-negotiable.
- Apply moisturizer 12 to 24 hours after rinsing your post-tan.
- Look for oil-free formulas that won’t interfere with the tanning solution. goGLOW’s HYDRATE is designed specifically for this purpose, infused with electrolytes and skin-loving ingredients that lock in moisture without breaking down your tan.
- To prolong and enhance your shade, incorporate a tan extender like goGLOW’s EXTEND lotion. This gradual tanning moisturizer is formulated to rebuild your glow over time, helping you maintain a consistent complexion between appointments.
Shower and Skincare Habits
When it comes to water and skin care, gentle is the golden rule.
- Keep it Cool and Short: Use lukewarm—never hot water—for all showers, and keep your time under the water to a minimum. Long, hot showers and baths strip your skin of natural oils and can accelerate tan fading.
- Soft Cleaning: Skip the harsh body wash and switch to a pH-balanced cleanser like goGLOW’s CLEANSE, which is designed to support skin hydration while preserving your bronzed color. Avoid anything with harsh chemicals, alcohols, or exfoliating acids.
- No Rubs or Scrubs: Never use scrubs, exfoliators, or loofahs until you’re intentionally starting your tan removal routine. These can cause premature, uneven fading and disrupt your even glow.
DIY Touch-Ups Between Sessions
Even with perfect aftercare, areas like the face, hands, and feet may fade a bit faster. Instead of waiting until your next full-body appointment, use goGLOW’s:
- TOUCH UP, a lightweight formula spray that blends seamlessly with your existing color and includes hydrating agents to nourish the skin. Apply it using a clean makeup sponge or mitt for a flawless blend. For best results, mix with moisturizer to soften the finish and avoid harsh edges.
What to Avoid at All Costs (If You Want That Glow to Last)
Post-tan success is also about what you avoid. Certain activities and products can sabotage your sun-kissed look and lead to uneven fading, streaks, or skin irritation.
Skip the Water Hazards
- Avoid pools, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 48 hours after your spray tan. Chlorinated water and excessive heat can break down your bronzer and cause blotchy or rapid fading.
- Hot yoga, intense workouts, or anything that causes heavy sweating should also be avoided in the first 24–48 hours. Sweat is water, and water lifts color.
Say No to Tight Clothing and Friction
Tight clothing, especially synthetic or form-fitting styles, can rub off the tanning solution before it’s fully developed. That includes waistbands, sports bras, jeans, and anything with heavy seams.
Opt for breathable, dark cotton and avoid pressure on your skin until at least your first rinse and the following 24-hour setting period.
Ditch the Wrong Products
Many common drugstore body washes and lotions contain alcohols, artificial fragrances, mineral oils, or exfoliating agents that strip the skin and compromise your tan.
- Stick to tan-safe products like those in the goGLOW collection, all designed to preserve your skin’s hydration and the integrity of your glow.
- Avoid self-tanning foams, bronzers, or tanning water from Amazon sellers or any unverified brands online—especially if they’re not recommended by your certified tanning specialists.
Tan Emergency? Here’s How to Fix Common Mistakes
Even with the best care routine, life happens. Maybe you accidentally splashed water during your development time or noticed a little patchiness. The good news: small tanning mishaps can be fixed quickly and safely with the right products and techniques.
Uneven or Patchy Areas
Patchiness typically occurs when dry skin or friction causes premature fading.
- To even things out, use a gentle exfoliating mitt like the goGLOW EXFOLIATE Mitt to lightly buff the uneven area.
- Follow with a gradual tanning lotion such as goGLOW EXTEND or TOUCH UP to rebuild color smoothly. Remember to avoid scrubbing too hard; so, gentle, circular motions are best.
- If your skin feels dry afterward, apply a layer of the oil-free moisturizer to help restore hydration and prevent further fading.
Overdeveloped or Dark Spots
If a small area has developed darker than the rest of your tan, soak in lukewarm water for about 15 minutes, then gently exfoliate the area with your EXFOLIATE Mitt or a mild body scrub. Follow with a thin layer of moisturizer to rebalance your skin’s tone and texture.
Missed Spots
Sometimes, a wrist, ankle, or area around your underarm may not absorb the tanning solution evenly.
In this case, reach for goGLOW’s TOUCH UP spray or a self-tanning foam that matches your original solution. Apply a small amount using a clean tanning mitt or makeup sponge, and blend carefully for a seamless finish.
Trust Your Tanning Specialists and Your Aftercare
Your custom spray tan is a partnership between science, artistry, and self-care. Every airbrush tan is tailored to your unique skin tone, desired shade, and lifestyle, using a spray tan solution formulated for healthy skin and long-lasting radiance.
How long your spray tan lasts depends largely on your spray tan aftercare routine. Proper post-tan care ensures your tan sets evenly, keeps your tan intact, and prevents premature tan fading or uneven tan lines.
After your spray tan appointment, follow the post-care instructions provided by your professional spray tan specialists closely—especially when it comes to rinse timing, hydration, and product recommendations. Always gently rinse your skin with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing. Use a pH-balanced body wash that’s free from harsh chemicals and mineral oils to avoid stripping your skin.
To keep your skin hydrated and glowing, wear loose fitting clothing (or loose fitting clothes) immediately after your session. Tight fabrics can cause streaks before your tan develop phase is complete. Opt for dark clothing to avoid visible tan transfer, and remember to wear dark, loose fitting clothing to stay comfortable and protect your fresh glow.
Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, or long baths during the first 24 hours, as chlorine and heat can make your tan fade faster. Also, skip exfoliating products, harsh body washes, or anything that can leave your skin dry. Instead, hydrate daily with oil-free moisturizers like goGLOW’s HYDRATE, and keep lip balm handy to maintain moisture balance in every area.
goGLOW’s proprietary techniques, certified specialists, and skin-safe product collection are all designed to give you a natural looking tan without compromising your skin health. From pH-balanced cleansers to rich, oil-free moisturizers and extenders, every formula supports healthy skin and helps your tan fade gradually and beautifully.
Stay consistent with your skincare and moisturizing routine to see not only a longer-lasting tan but also improved skin texture, elasticity, and overall hydration — making every future spray tan appointment look even better.
Ready for Your Next goGLOW?
Keep your glow going strong all year long.
- Book your next appointment.
- Shop the collection: featuring goGLOW CLEANSE, HYDRATE, EXTEND, TOUCH UP, and EXFOLIATE Mitt for flawless maintenance.
The best tans aren’t just applied: they’re maintained with care, confidence, and the right products. Trust the process, love your glow, and let your skin shine.
