Getting a spray tan can give you a beautiful, sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. To keep your tan looking fresh and smooth, using the right lotion after a spray tan is essential.
These lotions are formulated to hydrate and maintain the color longer. They can help prevent the tan from fading too quickly and reduce patchiness.
When choosing a lotion for after a spray tan, it’s crucial to pay attention to several factors.
The lotion should be free of alcohol and harsh chemicals, as these can strip the tan and cause it to fade faster. Ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil are great. They nourish skin while ensuring the tan doesn’t break down.
The scent of the lotion is also important, as you’ll want something pleasant to wear.
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We spent hours researching and testing a variety of lotions to find the ones that best support and enhance your spray tan. Our focus was on formulas that offer great hydration while keeping your tan looking flawless.
Best Lotions for After Spray Tan
We’ve put together our top picks for the best lotions to use after a spray tan. These products help keep your tan looking fresh and your skin feeling hydrated. Find the perfect one for your needs below.
Australian Gold Moisture Lock Lotion
If you want to keep your spray tan looking fresh longer, this lotion might be just what you need.
Pros
- Lovely beachy fragrance
- Fast-absorbing and non-greasy
- Keeps skin hydrated
Cons
- Occasional issues with the pump
- Could be hard to find in local stores
- Some users may prefer a stronger scent
This product enhances our tan and keeps our skin moisturized. The blend of Aloe Vera and Vitamin E makes it nourishing. It feels like taking a little trip to the beach with the Cocoa Dreams scent.
This lotion works great by retaining the tan and making our skin feel soft and smooth. It’s not greasy, which makes it pleasant to apply. We’ve also noticed that it dries quickly, so it doesn’t leave any sticky feeling.
The pump sometimes doesn’t work well, but that hasn’t taken away from the overall experience for us. It’s worth the extra effort to get every last bit out.
St.Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Moisturizer
A solid pick for anyone looking to maintain their spray tan while keeping their skin soft and smooth.
Pros
- Nourishes the skin, leaving it velvety and smooth
- Helps extend the life of a tan
- Free from parabens and cruelty-free
Cons
- Scent may not be for everyone
- Some users find it pricey compared to drugstore options
- Discontinued by the manufacturer
After trying the St.Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Moisturizer, we noticed how nice our skin felt. The lotion sinks in without feeling greasy, which is great for keeping our tan looking fresh. It’s a must-have if you get regular spray tans.
Applying this lotion right after a shower worked best for us. It really helps maintain that tan glow between sessions. We found it effective on areas prone to dryness, like elbows and knees.
Although the scent wasn’t our favorite, the benefits to our skin make it worth considering. It’s pricier than other lotions, but the results speak for themselves. If maintaining your tan is a priority, this product is definitely worth a try.
Norvell Post Sunless Hydrofirm Moisturizing Spray
Norvell’s moisturizing spray is a solid choice for extending and enhancing your spray tan, giving your skin a well-hydrated glow.
Pros
- Enhances and deepens the tan for a radiant finish
- Provides excellent hydration with hyaluronic acid
- Vegan and gentle on the skin
Cons
- Spray nozzle can be uneven
- May not cover very dry areas perfectly
- Small bottle size for frequent users
Using the Norvell Post Sunless Hydrofirm Moisturizing Spray feels like a refreshing burst of hydration. After using it, our skin felt incredibly smooth and soft, thanks to the aloe vera and hyaluronic acid. It really does lock in that fresh tan look.
The quick-drying formula makes it easy to apply and move on with your day. Once we tried it out, the tanning results stayed vibrant for longer. The product doesn’t include any harsh chemicals like parabens or sulfates, which is a bonus for our skin’s health.
On the flip side, the spray nozzle could be improved, as it sometimes sprays unevenly. We found that we had to use our hands to spread it evenly. Also, if you have very dry patches, you might need an extra moisturizer in addition to this spray to prevent any blotchiness.
Theraplex Clear Lotion Spray
This is a solid choice for soothing and protecting skin after a spray tan due to its light, moisture-locking formula.
Pros
- Feels lightweight and non-greasy on the skin
- Contains jojoba oil, which nourishes dry patches well
- Free from parabens and fragrances, making it great for sensitive skin
Cons
- Spray application can be tricky with wet hands
- Some may find the bottle design cumbersome
- It’s more like an oil than a typical lotion, which may not suit everyone
We have found this lotion to be a reliable option, especially after a spray tan. It goes on smoothly with a lightweight feel and doesn’t leave us looking shiny or feeling sticky. The quick absorption into the skin is a big plus.
Theraplex’s careful blend means it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin. With its National Eczema Association seal, we appreciated its gentle touch. A big win for anyone wary of harsh ingredients or fragrances.
While using the spray can be slightly awkward, especially if we’re just out of the shower, the moisturizer itself is definitely worth the effort. It leaves our skin feeling soft and hydrated without any irritation.
St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist
This face mist is perfect for anyone seeking a natural and streak-free glow without the hassle.
Pros
- Applies without streaks
- Light and pleasant scent
- Adds moisture to the skin
Cons
- Fades quickly
- Can be tricky to apply evenly
- Fragrance might not suit everyone
Using the St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist feels like a refreshing treat. The fine mist is easy to spray, leaving a soft glow that we love. It hydrates our skin nicely, thanks to the hyaluronic acid. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, which we appreciate.
Despite its benefits, achieving an even application is sometimes challenging. Occasionally, it leaves our skin with an uneven tone. Additionally, we notice the tan fades in a short time, requiring frequent reapplications.
The scent, though mostly pleasant, might not be everyone’s favorite. For those with sensitive noses, it can be mildly off-putting.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best lotion for after a spray tan can make a big difference in keeping your skin smooth and your tan lasting longer. We need to focus on a few important features to make the right choice.
Moisture-Rich Formula
Look for a lotion that has hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, or shea butter. These keep your skin moisturized and help your tan stay vibrant. Avoid lotions with alcohol as they can dry the skin.
Non-Greasy Texture
A lotion that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue is ideal. This kind of texture feels comfortable and doesn’t clog pores.
Ingredients to Avoid
We should stay clear of lotions containing harsh chemicals or artificial colors. These ingredients may strip the tan and irritate the skin.
pH-Balanced Formulas
Balanced lotions help in maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. It’s especially helpful for sensitive skin after a spray tan.
Scent
Choose lotions with light or natural scents. Strong perfumes can be irritating or overpowering.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing Ingredients | Aloe Vera, Shea Butter |
| Texture | Non-Greasy, Fast-Absorbing |
| Avoid | Alcohol, Artificial Colors |
| pH Balance | Suitable for Sensitive Skin |
| Scent | Light, Natural |
Frequently Asked Questions
We know choosing the right lotion after a spray tan can be tricky. There are key things to consider like the type of lotion, ingredients, and specific options for face care.
What type of lotion is recommended for maintaining a spray tan?
We recommend using lotions that are hydrating and free from harsh chemicals. These lotions help keep the skin moisturized without stripping away the color.
Which lotions should be avoided post-spray tanning to ensure longevity?
It’s best to avoid lotions that contain alcohol or fragrances. These ingredients can dry out the skin and cause the tan to fade faster.
What are the best moisturizing ingredients to look for in a lotion after spray tanning?
Look for lotions with ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid. These provide moisture and help maintain the tan’s glow.
Is there a preferred lotion for face care after a spray tan?
For face care, we suggest using a gentle face-specific lotion. Products designed for the face often prevent clogged pores and irritation.
Can you recommend affordable drugstore lotions suitable for post-spray tan skin care?
Affordable options include lotions from brands like Aveeno and Neutrogena. These are often available at drugstores and work well for post-tan care.
How does using CeraVe or Hempz lotions affect spray tan maintenance?
CeraVe offers gentle, hydrating formulas, while Hempz provides moisturizing ingredients like hemp seed oil.
Both can be suitable for maintaining a spray tan.