Will Hot Tubbing Ruin Your Spray Tan? Here’s How to Avoid It
By Jennifer Rhodes · Updated
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Few things sound as relaxing as spending a warm summer day in a hot tub.
Unfortunately, if you're trying to maintain a spray tan, prolonged exposure to the heat could ruin all your hard work. So, is it safe to use a hot tub if you've just gotten a spray tan?
Will using a hot tub ruin a spray tan?
If you're wondering whether hot tubbing will ruin your spray tan, the answer depends on how long you stay in the hot tub and what kind of tanning solution was used.
If your spray tan is at least 24 hours old, and you're only in the hot tub for 10-20 minutes or so, your tan should be fine. However, if you're in the hot tub for an extended period of time or if the water is very hot, there is a chance that your tan will fade or become patchy.
It's a good idea to avoid using any harsh chemicals or scrubs on your skin in general while you have a spray tan. These can interfere with the tanned skin and cause your color to fade prematurely.
Can a spray tan stain a hot tub?
Yes, a spray tan can stain a hot tub in certain cases. The chemicals in the tanning solution can seep into the water and interact with the materials in the hot tub shell, causing stains and discoloration (especially in spas with lighter shell colors).
This is another reason why it's important to wait 24 hours after getting a spray tan before using a hot tub.
Does chlorine remove a spray tan?
Chlorine can remove a spray tan, but it depends on the concentration of the chlorine and how long you're exposed to it.
If you're just taking a dip in a swimming pool with a low concentration of chlorine, your tan shouldn't be affected. However, if you're spending a long time in a hot tub or Jacuzzi with a higher concentration of chlorine, your tan may start to fade.
Tips to protect your spray tan
There are a few things you can do to protect your spray tan and make it last longer:
- Stay out of hot tubs for at least 24 hours after getting the tan. After this, keep sessions to under 20 minutes and consider turning the temperature down to around 98 degrees to minimize fading.
- Avoid exfoliating or using harsh soaps on your skin, as this could strip away the tan. Instead, use a gentle cleanser and avoid scrubbing your skin.
- Apply a moisturizer to your skin daily, as this will help to keep it hydrated and prevent the tan from fading.
- Avoid activities that will make you sweat, as this can also cause the tan to fade.
By following these simple tips, you can help your spray tan last longer and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.
Closing thoughts
If you are planning on getting a spray tan, it is important to avoid hot tubs right after.
The heat from the water—along with the sanitizing chemicals—could cause the spray tan to fade and become patchy. For this reason, it's always best to wait at least 24 hours after getting a spray tan before using a hot tub.
