You just got a fresh spray tan and you’re feeling like a bronzed goddess. But wait, what about your daily workout routine? Can you still hit the gym without ruining your perfect glow? I’ve been there, and I know the struggle is real.
The good news is, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can absolutely work out after a spray tan. It’s all about timing, preparation, and a little bit of finesse. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way so you don’t have to.
So, whether you’re a fitness fanatic or just trying to maintain your healthy lifestyle, let’s dive into how you can keep your spray tan looking flawless while breaking a sweat.
Table Of Contents:
- Can You Work Out After a Spray Tan?
- Tips for Working Out After a Spray Tan
- What to Avoid After Getting a Spray Tan
- Conclusion
Can You Work Out After a Spray Tan?
When it comes to a sunless type of tan, people are often wondering: should I get a tan before or after workout sessions? And for good reason. There are actually 3 secrets to sunless tanning and working out:
- Quality products
- Before care
- After care
So, let’s answer an age-old question: Can you work out after a spray tan?
Factors Affecting Spray Tan Longevity
Your spray tanning experience is extremely vulnerable right after your session. It usually takes between 4 and 8 hours for a fresh tan to develop properly, and during this period it is quite susceptible to sweat and moisture. If you choose to work out and sweat anyway, your tan will most likely turn out to be an uneven, streaky and patchy mess. Trust me, I’ve been there and it’s not a good look. Several factors can impact how long a spray tan lasts, including:
- Type of tanning solution used
- Skin preparation
- Aftercare
- Activities like working out
Recommended Waiting Time Before Working Out
It’s best to wait at least 8-12 hours after getting a spray tan before working out. This allows the tanning solution to fully develop and set on the skin. Waiting 24 hours is ideal for optimal results and longevity. I know it’s hard to resist the urge to hit the gym with your fresh glow, but trust the process. Prior to your spray tan, working out is okay. You must complete your workout and shower at least 4-6 hours prior to your spray tan for best results.
Tips for Maintaining Your Spray Tan
Maintaining your spray tan properly isn’t exactly rocket science, but there are some rules that you should take into account and abide by, especially during those critical 4 to 8 hours after your sunless tanning session. To help maintain a spray tan when working out:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- Apply a light layer of baby powder to areas prone to friction
- Gently pat sweat from the skin
- Shower with lukewarm water post-workout
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash
Wait at least 12 hours post spray tan initial rinse to work out again. Take short lukewarm showers and pat dry post shower while you’re spray tanned.
Tips for Working Out After a Spray Tan
So you’ve got a fresh spray tan and you’re itching to get back to your workout routine. I get it, I’ve been there. Here are some tips to help you maintain that perfect glow while still getting your sweat on:
Choosing the Right Workout Gear
Opt for loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials when working out with a spray tan. Avoid tight clothing that can rub against the skin and cause the tan to fade or become patchy. Darker colors may also help conceal any temporary color transfer. I learned this the hard way after ruining a cute white sports bra.
Avoiding Excessive Sweating
Excessive sweating can make it challenging for a spray tan to last. If possible, choose cooler workout environments and lower-intensity exercises to minimize sweating in the days following a spray tan. Apply a light layer of baby powder before working out to absorb excess moisture. This has been a game-changer for me, especially during hot yoga classes.
Post-Workout Skincare Routine
After working out, gently pat sweat from the skin with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing or wiping motions that can exfoliate the skin and remove the spray tan. Shower with lukewarm water and use a mild, sulfate-free body wash to cleanse the skin without stripping the tan. Trust me, your spray tanned skin will thank you.
Maintaining Hydration
Double up on your moisturizer. I suggest you moisturize with a hydrating lotion prior to the gym or workout classes while spray tanned. This helps lock more hydration into your pores and your spray tan. Apply setting powder to areas that see the most friction before working out such as:
- Where your sports bra rubs
- Between the breasts
- In the creases of elbows and knees
- Insides of thighs
What to Avoid After Getting a Spray Tan
Now that we’ve covered what you should do to maintain your spray tan while working out, let’s talk about what you should avoid:
Hot Showers and Baths
Hot water can dehydrate the skin and cause a spray tan to fade quickly. Stick to lukewarm or cool showers and avoid soaking in hot baths or hot tubs to prolong the life of your tan. I know a steamy shower feels amazing after a tough workout, but your spray tan will fade faster than you can say “bronzed goddess”.
Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs
Chlorinated water in swimming pools and hot tubs can break down the ingredients in self-tanning solutions, leading to uneven fading and a shorter-lasting tan. Wait at least 24-48 hours before swimming or using a hot tub after getting a spray tan. I once made the mistake of jumping in the pool too soon after a spray tan and ended up with splotchy, faded patches. Learn from my mistakes.
Exfoliating and Using Harsh Soaps
Exfoliating scrubs, loofahs, and harsh soaps can strip away a fresh spray tan. Avoid exfoliating for at least 3-4 days after your tanning session and opt for gentle, sulfate-free cleansers to help maintain your tan. Your skin may feel a little dry and scaly as your spray tan fades, but resist the urge to scrub it all off.
Tight Clothing and Rough Fabrics
Tight sports bras, compression pants, and all the movement can be rough on your tan but if you follow these simple tips you can still get your workout in while having a flawless tan. Regular workouts often require extensive showers for muscle relief, but it’s important to keep showers short and avoid using excessively hot water. Hot water can strip away the skin’s natural hydration and make it difficult for the self-tan to last.
Key Takeaway:
Got a fresh spray tan and wondering about hitting the gym? Wait 8-12 hours before working out to let your tan set. Opt for loose, breathable workout clothes and keep post-gym showers lukewarm. Avoid hot water, rough fabrics, and excessive sweating to keep that glow going strong.
Conclusion
Working out after a spray tan is totally doable with a little know-how and preparation. Remember, timing is key. Give your tan time to set before hitting the gym, and always rinse off before your first workout.
Opt for loose, dark clothing to minimize friction and wear, and don’t forget to apply a light layer of powder to keep things smooth. Post-workout, keep your showers short and sweet, and moisturize like it’s your job.
With these tips in mind, you can maintain your gorgeous glow while staying active and healthy. No more sacrificing your spray tan for your workout routine, or vice versa. You’ve got this, gorgeous!