Keeping that sun-kissed glow from a spray tan can feel like a high-stakes game. Normal soaps often strip away the color, leaving you patchy and uneven faster than you’d like. I’ve been there, desperately trying to find a body wash that won’t ruin my tan after spending good money on it. So, I did some digging and testing to find soaps that actually work with spray tans, not against them. Here’s what I discovered.
Product Overview/Quick Summary:
- Best Overall: South Beach Skin Solutions Tan-Safe Body Wash
- Best Budget: Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash
- Best Exfoliating: St. Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Exfoliator
- Best Scent: Alba Botanica Hawaiian Detox Body Wash
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Body Wash
Top 5 Best Soap to Use After a Spray Tan
1. South Beach Skin Solutions Tan-Safe Body Wash
South Beach Skin Solutions Tan-Safe Body Wash is specifically designed to prolong the life of your spray tan. It’s formulated without sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals that can strip your tan. This body wash helps to hydrate the skin, keeping your tan looking fresh and even.
Pros:
- ✅ Extends the life of your spray tan
- ✅ Sulfate and paraben-free formula
- ✅ Hydrates and moisturizes the skin
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options
- ❌ Scent is quite subtle, which might not appeal to everyone
- ❌ Some users find the lather isn’t as rich as they’d like
Verdict: If you’re serious about preserving your spray tan and don’t mind spending a little extra, this is a solid choice. It’s particularly good if you have dry skin.
2. Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash
Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash is a classic for a reason: it’s incredibly gentle. This hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula cleanses without stripping your skin of its natural oils, making it a great option for maintaining a spray tan. It’s also easily accessible and budget-friendly.
Pros:
- ✅ Very gentle and hypoallergenic
- ✅ Affordable and widely available
- ✅ Helps maintain skin’s natural moisture
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t have any tan-enhancing properties
- ❌ Very minimal scent, might not be preferred by everyone
- ❌ May not be moisturizing enough for very dry skin
Verdict: If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable option that won’t harm your spray tan, Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash is a safe bet. It’s a great choice for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer fragrance-free products.
3. St. Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Exfoliator
St. Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Exfoliator is essential for prepping your skin before a spray tan, but it’s also gentle enough to use sparingly afterwards. It contains small, gentle exfoliating beads that remove dead skin cells without being too abrasive, helping your tan fade evenly. I use this a few days after getting my tan to prevent patchiness.
Pros:
- ✅ Gently exfoliates to prevent patchy fading
- ✅ Prepares skin for a fresh tan
- ✅ Leaves skin feeling smooth and soft
Cons:
- ❌ Exfoliation can shorten the life of a tan if used too frequently
- ❌ Can be a bit expensive
- ❌ Not ideal for daily use after a spray tan
Verdict: This exfoliator is a great investment if you want to ensure an even fade and prep for your next tan. Just be sure to use it sparingly after your spray tan to avoid premature fading. I usually use this 3-4 days after my spray tan.
4. Alba Botanica Hawaiian Detox Body Wash
Alba Botanica Hawaiian Detox Body Wash is a sulfate-free option that smells amazing, thanks to its blend of tropical fruit extracts. This body wash cleanses gently while nourishing the skin. The tropical scent is a major plus, making your shower feel like a mini-vacation.
Pros:
- ✅ Sulfate-free and gentle on skin
- ✅ Delicious tropical scent
- ✅ Contains nourishing botanical extracts
Cons:
- ❌ Scent might be too strong for some
- ❌ May not be as moisturizing as some other options
- ❌ Availability can vary depending on the store
Verdict: If you want a body wash that’s gentle on your tan and smells fantastic, Alba Botanica Hawaiian Detox Body Wash is a great choice. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a strong, tropical scent in their shower routine.
5. Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Body Wash
Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Body Wash lives up to its name: it’s incredibly gentle. This soap-free formula is designed for sensitive skin and won’t strip away your tan. It’s hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and clinically proven to be gentle, making it a safe choice for maintaining your glow.
Pros:
- ✅ Soap-free and hypoallergenic
- ✅ Very gentle and non-irritating
- ✅ Clinically proven for sensitive skin
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t offer any tan-enhancing benefits
- ❌ Very mild scent, which might not appeal to everyone
- ❌ Some may find it too gentle for heavy-duty cleansing
Verdict: If you have sensitive skin and need a body wash that won’t irritate or strip your tan, Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Body Wash is an excellent choice. It’s a reliable and gentle option for everyday use.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right soap after a spray tan isn’t just about grabbing the first bottle you see. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Sulfate-Free is Key: Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip away your tan. Look for body washes labeled “sulfate-free” to help prolong your tan.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: A spray tan can dry out your skin, so opt for soaps with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or aloe vera. Hydrated skin holds onto the tan better.
- Avoid Harsh Exfoliants: While exfoliation is important before a tan, avoid harsh scrubs or loofahs immediately after. Gentle cleansing is all you need for the first few days.
- Read Reviews: See what other spray tan enthusiasts are saying about different body washes. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights.
- Consider Your Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, choose hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options to avoid irritation.
FAQs
Q: How soon after a spray tan can I shower?
A: Most tanning salons recommend waiting at least 8 hours before showering after a spray tan. This allows the tan to fully develop.
Q: Can I use regular soap after a spray tan?
A: It’s best to avoid regular soaps that contain sulfates, as they can strip your tan. Opt for a sulfate-free, gentle body wash instead.
Q: Will exfoliating after a spray tan ruin it?
A: Exfoliating too soon or too often can cause your tan to fade faster or unevenly. Wait a few days and use a gentle exfoliator sparingly to maintain an even fade.
Q: Can I use bar soap after a spray tan?
A: Bar soaps can often be drying and may contain harsh ingredients. If you prefer bar soap, look for a sulfate-free, moisturizing option specifically designed for sensitive skin.
Q: Does shaving affect my spray tan?
A: Shaving can exfoliate the skin, so do it before your spray tan for best results. If you need to shave after, use a gentle shaving cream and a sharp razor, and do it lightly to minimize exfoliation.
Conclusion
Finding the right soap to use after a spray tan doesn’t have to be a chore. By choosing sulfate-free, moisturizing options and avoiding harsh exfoliants, you can keep your tan looking fresh and even for longer. Whether you opt for a tan-specific formula or a gentle classic, your skin (and your tan) will thank you.
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