Dreaming of that sun-kissed glow without the harmful rays? Spray tans offer a quick way to get that beautiful bronzed look. But have you ever wondered what happens after you get that spray tan? What you put on your skin next is super important!
Choosing the right lotion for your spray tan can feel like a puzzle. Some lotions can make your tan fade too fast, or worse, turn it an odd color. You want to keep that gorgeous tan looking fresh and natural for as long as possible. It’s frustrating when your hard-earned glow disappears in just a few days!
In this post, we’ll unlock the secrets to picking the perfect lotion that will keep your spray tan looking amazing. You’ll learn what ingredients to look for and what to avoid. Get ready to make your spray tan last longer and look even better. Let’s dive in and find the best way to care for your radiant skin!
Our Top 5 Lotion For Spray Tan Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Lotion For Spray Tan Detailed Reviews
1. Norvell Pro Blending DHA Barrier Cream For Spray Tanning
Rating: 8.9/10
Achieve a flawless, natural-looking spray tan with Norvell Pro Blending DHA Barrier Cream. This cream is your secret weapon against those dreaded tan lines and uneven color. It helps your spray tan develop beautifully, especially on tricky spots.
What We Like:
- Prevents over-darkening on knees, elbows, palms, and soles, leading to a more even tan.
- Prepares your skin for a perfect color blend, making your sunless tan look more natural.
- Unscented and suitable for all skin types, so it’s gentle on your skin.
- Easy to use and an effective way to avoid tan solution staining sensitive areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- Norvell products have a short shelf-life of about 5-6 months, so plan your purchase accordingly.
This barrier cream is a game-changer for anyone who loves a sunless tan. It helps you get a beautiful, even glow every time.
2. Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender Moisturizing Lotion
Rating: 8.6/10
Keep your sun-kissed glow looking its best with Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender. This lotion is designed to help your tan last longer while keeping your skin feeling soft and hydrated. It’s a great way to maintain that summer look all year round.
What We Like:
- It really helps your tan last longer.
- The lotion feels super moisturizing.
- It has Sunflower Seed Oil and Olive Fruit Oil for deep hydration.
- The formula is not greasy and dries fast.
- Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E are good for your skin.
- It fights off bad stuff that can hurt your skin.
- It smells amazing, like a tropical vacation with coconut, orange, and vanilla.
- Aloe Vera helps soothe and hydrate your skin.
- The lotion is free from PABA, dyes, alcohol, and gluten.
What Could Be Improved:
- It does not contain sunscreen, so you still need to protect your skin from the sun.
This tan extender is a fantastic addition to your skincare routine if you want to prolong your tan and enjoy beautifully nourished skin. It’s a simple way to feel like you’re on vacation every day.
3. St.Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Moisturizer
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready for your best tan ever with the St.Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Moisturizer. This special lotion is designed to make your self-tan look amazing. It works as a prep before you tan and helps your tan last longer. Plus, it’s good for your skin and good for animals!
What We Like:
- It makes your skin feel super soft and smooth, like velvet.
- It helps your self-tan fade more evenly, so you don’t get patchy spots.
- It makes your tan break up less, meaning it looks good for longer.
- It’s vegan, natural, and never tested on animals, which is awesome!
- It helps you get perfect results and a tan that lasts longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to remember to wash your hands after applying it.
This St.Tropez moisturizer is a fantastic way to boost your self-tan game. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in how your tan looks and lasts.
4. Australian Gold Moisturer Lock Tan Extender Lotion
Rating: 9.3/10
Dreaming of that perfect sun-kissed glow that lasts? Australian Gold’s Moisture Lock Tan Extender Lotion is here to help you hold onto that golden color longer. This 16 fl oz bottle is packed with good stuff like Vitamin E and Aloe Vera to keep your skin looking and feeling its best all summer long.
What We Like:
- It really helps your tan last longer, so you don’t have to reapply as often.
- The formula is super moisturizing thanks to sunflower and olive oils, leaving your skin soft and smooth.
- It smells amazing, like a vacation to the beach with its Cocoa Dreams scent.
- It’s made with Australian naturals like Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E, which are good for your skin.
- The lotion is free from PABA, parabens, dyes, and gluten, making it a gentler option for your skin.
- It dries quickly and feels non-greasy.
What Could Be Improved:
- It doesn’t have any SPF, so you’ll need to use a separate sunscreen if you’re out in the sun.
- While it lasts 18 months after opening, it doesn’t have a clear expiration date printed on the bottle.
This lotion is a fantastic way to extend your tan and keep your skin happy. Get ready for soft, smooth, and beautifully bronzed skin that smells like paradise.
5. Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion
Rating: 9.1/10
Get a beautiful, sun-kissed glow without the sun with Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion. This lotion is designed for fair to medium skin tones and works to create a natural-looking tan. It also moisturizes your skin and has ingredients that help firm it up and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
What We Like:
- It gives you a gradual, natural-looking tan.
- The lotion moisturizes and hydrates your skin.
- It contains collagen and elastin to help firm skin.
- You can see a reduction in cellulite appearance in just 7 days.
- It has a light and fresh scent, so you don’t smell like a typical self-tanner.
- It’s infused with antioxidants and Coconut Water for healthier-looking skin.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “firming” and “cellulite reduction” effects might vary for different people.
- It’s a lotion, so it might take a little time to fully absorb.
Overall, Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion is a fantastic way to get a healthy glow and smoother-looking skin. It’s a great all-in-one product for your daily routine.
Choosing the Best Lotion for Your Spray Tan
Want a beautiful, sun-kissed glow without the sun? Spray tans are a fantastic option! But to get the most out of your spray tan, you need the right lotion. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Why Use a Special Lotion for Spray Tans?
Regular lotions can sometimes interfere with how a spray tan develops. They might make the tan fade unevenly or even cause streaks. Lotions made for spray tans help your skin get ready for the tan and keep it looking great for longer.
Key Features to Look For
1. Hydration is Key
A well-hydrated skin holds color better. Look for lotions with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or shea butter. These keep your skin soft and prevent the tan from drying out and flaking.
2. Gradual Tan Formulas
Some lotions have a little bit of tanning ingredient (DHA) in them. These are great for topping up your spray tan between professional applications. They build a subtle color over time, making your tan last longer.
3. Streak-Free Application
The best lotions help your spray tan go on smoothly. They should absorb into your skin nicely without feeling greasy. This helps avoid those dreaded streaks and patchy spots.
4. Long-Lasting Color
A good spray tan lotion will help lock in the color. It protects your tan from rubbing off too easily and keeps it looking fresh for as long as possible.
5. Pleasant Scent
Some spray tan lotions have strong smells. If you’re sensitive to scents, choose one with a light, fresh fragrance or an unscented option.
Important Materials (Ingredients)
When you look at the ingredient list, keep an eye out for these helpful components:
- Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient is a super hydrator. It pulls moisture into your skin.
- Glycerin: Like hyaluronic acid, glycerin is a humectant. It attracts water to the skin.
- Shea Butter/Cocoa Butter: These are natural emollients. They soften and smooth the skin, creating a good base for a tan.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can calm the skin.
- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect the skin and can improve the appearance of the tan.
- DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): This is the ingredient that actually creates the tan color. In lotions for spray tans, it’s usually in a low concentration for gradual tanning.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Lotion Better?
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Lotions rich in natural oils and humectants are great.
- Non-Greasy Formula: A lotion that absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky feeling is ideal.
- Even Color Development: The lotion should help the spray tan blend smoothly.
- Long-Term Hydration: Skin that stays moisturized will keep its tan longer.
What Can Make Quality Worse?
- Heavy Oils: Some heavy oils can create a barrier that prevents the spray tan from absorbing properly.
- Alcohol: High amounts of alcohol can dry out the skin, leading to a patchy tan.
- Fragrances: For those sensitive, strong perfumes can be irritating.
- Exfoliating Ingredients: Avoid lotions with strong exfoliants right before or after a spray tan, as they can remove the color.
User Experience and Use Cases
Before Your Spray Tan
Using a special lotion before your spray tan can help. It ensures your skin is smooth and hydrated. This helps the spray tan solution stick evenly. Think of it like prepping a canvas before painting.
After Your Spray Tan
Once you have your spray tan, a good lotion is your best friend. It keeps your skin hydrated. This prevents the tan from drying out and fading too quickly. It also helps maintain that beautiful color for longer.
Daily Use
Many lotions designed for spray tans can be used daily. They help build and maintain your glow. If you get professional spray tans, using these lotions between appointments helps your color look good for weeks.
Gradual Tanning
If you don’t want a full spray tan, but just a little color, lotions with a hint of DHA are perfect. You can apply them a few times a week to get a natural-looking tan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use any lotion after a spray tan?
A: It’s best to use lotions made for spray tans. Regular lotions might contain ingredients that can make your tan fade unevenly or cause streaks.
Q: How often should I apply lotion after a spray tan?
A: Apply lotion at least once or twice a day, especially after showering, to keep your skin hydrated and your tan looking its best.
Q: Will lotion remove my spray tan?
A: Most lotions designed for spray tans will not remove your tan. In fact, they help preserve it by keeping your skin moisturized.
Q: Are there lotions that can help my spray tan last longer?
A: Yes, lotions with hydrating ingredients and sometimes a low amount of DHA can help extend the life of your spray tan.
Q: What if my skin feels dry after a spray tan?
A: This is common. Use a rich, hydrating lotion immediately. Look for ingredients like shea butter or hyaluronic acid.
Q: Can I use a tanning bed with a spray tan lotion?
A: No, these lotions are not designed for tanning beds and will not protect you from UV rays. They are for spray tans only.
Q: Are there lotions that can help fix streaks?
A: While lotions can help with evenness, they can’t completely fix bad streaks. Proper application of the spray tan is key.
Q: What should I avoid putting on my skin after a spray tan?
A: Avoid harsh soaps, exfoliating scrubs, and products with a lot of alcohol, as these can strip the tan.
Q: Can I use these lotions on my face?
A: Always check the product label. Some lotions are formulated for the face, while others are for the body only. Facial skin is more delicate.
Q: How do I choose a scent I’ll like?
A: If possible, try to smell the lotion before buying. Many brands offer travel sizes, which are a good way to test a scent.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.