How to maintain your spray tan during the winter
As the days grow colder, the allure of a golden glow doesn’t fade. A spray tan can provide that much-needed confidence boost during the dreary winter months. However, achieving and maintaining the perfect spray tan during winter requires special attention to your skin. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your tan flawless and radiant all season long.
Why Winter Spray Tanning is Different
Winter weather poses unique challenges for maintaining a spray tan. Dry air, indoor heating, and fireplaces can wreak havoc on your skin, causing it to become dry and flaky. Since a spray tan works by interacting with the outermost layer of your skin, dryness is its worst enemy—leading to uneven fading and shorter-lasting results.
To counteract these effects, you’ll need to adjust your pre- and post-tan care routine to ensure your skin stays hydrated and nourished.
Pre-Tan Prep: The Key to Long-Lasting Results
Exfoliate Thoroughly: Dry, dead skin can prevent a spray tan from adhering evenly. To ensure a smooth canvas, exfoliate your skin 24-48 hours before your appointment. For best results, exfoliate twice—once four days before and again two days before. Use a gentle exfoliant like:
Nuda Body Exfoliant
Naked Tan Body Exfoliator
DIY sugar scrub made with olive oil and vanilla extract
Shave or Wax in Advance: Shaving and waxing remove a thin layer of skin, so it’s important to complete these steps at least 24-48 hours before your appointment. This allows your skin to heal and ensures a more even tan.
Hydrate from Within: Drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment. Well-hydrated skin not only holds a tan better but also fades more evenly.
Cleanse Properly: On the day of your appointment, ensure your skin is free of makeup, oils, moisturizers, and deodorant. These can create a barrier that prevents the tanning solution from adhering evenly.
Post-Tan Care: Locking in Your Glow
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The dry winter air and indoor heating can dehydrate your skin, causing your tan to fade faster. Combat this by drinking plenty of water and moisturizing regularly. Opt for products designed to maintain a spray tan, such as:
Nuda Body Cream
Naked Tan Crème de la Crème
Hempz Fragrance-Free Herbal Body Moisturizer
Seal in the Hydration: After your tan, consider using a hydration spray, like the one offered by Aussie Glow, to lock in moisture and prolong your tan’s life.
Avoid Drying Ingredients: Steer clear of products containing alcohol, fragrances, or harsh chemicals. These can strip your tan and dry out your skin.
Pat, Don’t Rub: After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing. This helps preserve your tan and prevents uneven fading.
Use Gentle Soaps: Stick to moisturizing, non-exfoliating cleansers like Naked Tan Body Cleanser or Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser to avoid stripping your tan.
Additional Tips for Winter Spray Tanning
Moisturize Twice Daily: Keep a nourishing lotion on hand and apply it morning and night to combat the drying effects of indoor heating.
Protect Your Skin: Winter activities like skiing or spending time by the fire can dry out your skin. Use a protective moisturizer before heading out and reapply as needed.
Schedule Touch-Ups: To keep your tan looking fresh all season, consider scheduling regular touch-ups or using a gradual tanner to extend its life.
Why the Right Products Matter
The quality of the products you or your spray tan artist uses makes a significant difference in the final result. Look for tanning solutions and aftercare products with nourishing ingredients that hydrate and protect your skin. High-quality solutions will also produce a more natural, even tan that lasts longer.
Conclusion
A winter spray tan can be the perfect way to beat the cold-weather blues and maintain a radiant glow. By focusing on proper preparation, hydration, and using the right products, you can ensure your tan stays beautiful and even. Embrace the glow this winter and enjoy the confidence that comes with perfectly bronzed skin—no matter the season!
