That golden glow from a spray tan is amazing, but keeping it looking fresh and preventing patchiness is key. Moisturizer is your best friend in this situation. It helps lock in the tan, keeps your skin hydrated, and extends the life of your sunless color. Choosing the right one makes all the difference, so I’ve put together a list of my top picks to keep you bronzed and beautiful.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Hempz Original Herbal Body Moisturizer: A classic for a reason, this moisturizer is hydrating, smells great, and won’t mess with your tan.
- Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion: Gentle, fragrance-free, and effective, it’s perfect for sensitive skin and won’t interfere with your tan’s development.
- COCO & EVE Glow Figure Body Moisture Whip: A luxurious option that hydrates and enhances your tan with subtle shimmer.
- Jergens Natural Glow Instant Moisturizer: This one extends your tan and gradually adds a touch of color.
- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream: A rich, fragrance-free cream that’s great for very dry skin and won’t strip your tan.
Top 5 Best Moisturizers After Spray Tan
1. Hempz Original Herbal Body Moisturizer
Hempz is a long-time favorite, and for good reason. It’s packed with hemp seed oil, which is super hydrating and rich in essential fatty acids. It absorbs quickly, smells fantastic (but not overpowering), and is generally safe for spray tans.
Pros:
- ✅ Lightweight and absorbs quickly
- ✅ Smells amazing (signature Hempz scent)
- ✅ Contains hemp seed oil, a great moisturizer
Cons:
- ❌ Scent might be too strong for some
- ❌ Contains fragrance, which can irritate sensitive skin
- ❌ Not the most intensely hydrating option for very dry skin
Verdict: A great all-around moisturizer for maintaining a spray tan, especially if you enjoy a light, pleasant scent. It’s a solid choice for everyday use.
2. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Aveeno is a go-to for sensitive skin, and this lotion is a winner. It’s fragrance-free, non-greasy, and contains soothing oat extract. This makes it a great choice that won’t mess with your spray tan and is gentle on your skin.
Pros:
- ✅ Fragrance-free and gentle
- ✅ Contains soothing oat extract
- ✅ Non-greasy formula
Cons:
- ❌ May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
- ❌ Some users dislike the slightly medicinal scent
- ❌ Basic formula lacks extra skincare benefits
Verdict: A reliable and affordable option for those with sensitive skin who need a gentle moisturizer to maintain their spray tan. It’s a simple, effective choice.
3. COCO & EVE Glow Figure Body Moisture Whip
This moisturizer feels like a treat! It’s a whipped formula that’s incredibly hydrating and leaves a subtle shimmer on the skin. The shimmer helps enhance your tan, making it look even more radiant. It’s also packed with antioxidants to keep your skin healthy.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides intense hydration
- ✅ Contains subtle shimmer for a radiant glow
- ✅ Smells delicious (tropical scent)
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than other options
- ❌ Shimmer might not be for everyone
- ❌ Scent could be overpowering for some
Verdict: A luxurious moisturizer that not only hydrates but also enhances your tan with a beautiful shimmer. It’s a great choice if you want a little extra glow and are willing to splurge.
4. Jergens Natural Glow Instant Moisturizer
Jergens Natural Glow is a two-in-one product: a moisturizer and a gradual tanner. This is a perfect way to extend the life of your spray tan, and it gradually adds a touch of color as your initial tan fades. It’s easy to use and helps maintain an even tone.
Pros:
- ✅ Extends the life of your spray tan
- ✅ Gradually adds color for an even fade
- ✅ Affordable and readily available
Cons:
- ❌ Can be streaky if not applied evenly
- ❌ Scent can be strong and develop over time
- ❌ Might darken existing spray tan unevenly
Verdict: A convenient option for maintaining and extending your spray tan with a gradual touch of color. Make sure to exfoliate and apply evenly for the best results. I’ve used this for years and swear by it, but application is key!
5. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
CeraVe is known for its simple, effective formulas, and this moisturizing cream is no exception. It’s a rich, fragrance-free cream that’s perfect for very dry skin. It contains ceramides, which help restore the skin’s natural barrier, keeping it hydrated and healthy. It’s gentle enough that it shouldn’t affect your spray tan.
Pros:
- ✅ Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- ✅ Contains ceramides to restore the skin barrier
- ✅ Provides intense hydration for dry skin
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel a bit heavy on oily skin
- ❌ Not the most aesthetically pleasing packaging
- ❌ Lacks added skincare benefits like antioxidants
Verdict: A reliable and effective moisturizer for very dry skin, especially if you prefer fragrance-free products. It’s a simple, no-fuss option that will keep your skin hydrated and your spray tan looking its best.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right moisturizer after a spray tan isn’t rocket science, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Oil-Free is Key: Oils can break down the tanning solution, leading to streaks and a shorter-lasting tan. Look for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas.
- Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, and retinol can exfoliate the skin, causing your tan to fade faster.
- Hydration is Essential: A well-hydrated skin holds onto the tan better. Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or shea butter.
- Consider Your Skin Type: If you have oily skin, opt for a lightweight lotion. If you have dry skin, a thicker cream might be better.
- Fragrance-Free Options: While scented lotions are nice, fragrance can sometimes irritate sensitive skin or interfere with the tan’s development.
FAQs
Q: How soon after my spray tan can I moisturize?
A: Wait at least 4-6 hours after your spray tan before applying moisturizer. This gives the tanning solution enough time to fully develop.
Q: How often should I moisturize after a spray tan?
A: Moisturize at least twice a day, morning and night, to keep your skin hydrated and extend the life of your tan. If your skin feels particularly dry, you can moisturize more often.
Q: Can I use any moisturizer after a spray tan?
A: No, not all moisturizers are created equal. Avoid those with oils, harsh chemicals, or exfoliating ingredients. Stick to oil-free, hydrating formulas.
Q: Will moisturizing make my spray tan darker?
A: Moisturizing won’t make your tan darker, but it will help maintain the color and prevent it from fading prematurely. Some moisturizers, like gradual tanners, can add a touch of color over time.
Q: What ingredients should I look for in a moisturizer after a spray tan?
A: Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, and ceramides. These are all great for hydrating the skin and maintaining its natural barrier.
Conclusion
Keeping your skin hydrated is so important to prolonging your spray tan. All the moisturizers listed above are great choices. Whether you need something gentle, hydrating, or even something that will extend your tan, there’s an option for everyone. Now, go enjoy your beautiful, bronzed skin!
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