The Tanning Shop - Time to Shine

How to Maintain Your Spray Tan on Holiday

Spray Tanning: How to Maintain Your Spray Tan on Holiday - The Tanning Shop

You’ve packed your bags, printed your boarding passes, and triple-checked your passport. Now it’s time for that pre-holiday spray tan!

Getting a spray tan before your trip is a popular way to start your holiday glowing, especially if you’re keen to avoid looking pale next to the pool on day one. But how can you make sure your sunless glow survives the sunshine, swimming, and sand?

Here are our top tips to care for your spray tan while you’re away:

1. Time It Right

Book your spray tan as close to your departure date as possible, ideally within 24–48 hours of flying. Most high-quality solutions last 5–7 days, with the richest colour showing in the first 4–5.

Pro tip: Not sure which shade suits your skin tone? Try a trial tan a couple of weeks before your holiday to test the result.

Make sure you prepare for it by reading our guide on How to Prepare for Your Spray Tan.

2. Shower Gently

Hot water can accelerate the fading of your spray tan, so opt for lukewarm or cool showers instead. This gentler temperature helps maintain your colour for longer, preventing the colour from washing away too quickly.

3. Take Quick Dips In The Pool

Chlorine can dry out your skin and fade your tan prematurely. While you don’t have to avoid the pool entirely:

  • Limit your time in chlorinated water
  • Rinse off with fresh water immediately after swimming
  • Pat your skin dry. Don’t rub

Read our guide on chlorine removing fake tan.

4. Always Wear SPF

Remember, a spray tan does not offer protection against UV rays. Always use an SPF lotion when outdoors.

Apply it generously to your face and body and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Hydrating SPF formulas not only protect your skin while you work on your natural tan but also helps to keep skin hydrated all summer long.

5. Avoid Oily Lotions

Oil is the enemy of a longer lasting spray tan. Many sunscreens are oil-based, and oil is known to strip tan from the skin.

To preserve your tan while on holiday, choose an oil-free sunscreen with a 5-star UVA rating. This way, you can protect your skin from the sun without compromising your beautiful tan!

6. Hydrate Your Skin

Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial for prolonging your spray tan. Use a hydrating lotion daily to nourish and quench your skin. Our personal favourite is the Hemp Nation Tan Extender (see our range of lotions), which helps to lock in moisture and extend the life of your tan. Well-hydrated skin will hold onto the spray tan longer and allows the colour to fade more evenly.

7. Ditch The Scrubs – Avoid Exfoliation

Exfoliating scrubs, loofahs, and harsh washcloths can remove layers of your tan. Avoid these products during your holiday to keep your tan intact.

If you need to exfoliate, do so gently and sparingly, focusing on areas where your tan might become patchy.

8. Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing

Tight clothing can rub against your skin and cause your tan to fade unevenly. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics, especially right after you’ve gotten your spray tan and durinbbg your holiday. This will reduce friction and help your tan last longer.

 

9. Moisturise After Swimming

Saltwater and chlorine can dry out your skin, leading to a quicker fade of your spray tan. After swimming in the sea or pool, rinse off with fresh water and apply a good moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and your tan looking fresh.

10. Top Up With Fake Tan Or Gradual Tanner

If you notice your spray is fading or becoming patchy, you can top up you tan while on holiday using a gradual tanning lotion or fake tan. This is a great way to keep your colour looking fresh until you return home.

Bonus Tip: Up With Fake Tan Or Gradual Tanner

Keep your tan looking its best with a few essentials in your suitcase:

  • Travel-size moisturiser (oil-free)
  • Gradual tanner
  • Loose dark clothing (for flight & beach days)
  • Oil-free SPF 30+
  • Wet wipes (for quick freshen-ups)

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a beautiful, even tan throughout your holiday. With a bit of care, your spray tan can be a fantastic way to enhance your natural glow and give you that extra confidence boost on your holiday.