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A spray tan is a great way to get that sunkissed glow without having to spend time in the sun. But what happens when it’s time to shave? Can you shave after a spray tan or will it ruin your tan?
Can You Shave After a Spray Tan? The answer to this question is yes – you can shave after a spray tan. However, before you grab your razor, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
How Long Should You Wait To Shave After a Spray Tan?
You should wait at least three days before shaving after a spray tan. Shaving before this time can cause your tan to fade patchily or come off altogether.
If you can’t wait three days, make sure to shave in the direction of hair growth and use a light touch.
Use a sharp razor and avoid dragging the blade over your skin as this can cause streaks and uneven patches, or strip your tan.
Avoid using soap or shaving cream, as these products can interact with your tanning solution, cause discoloration or strip your tan completely. Instead, use a tan extender moisturizing lotion or oil to help protect your skin.
Yes, shaving can remove spray tan if you don’t wait until the tan has completely set. It’s best to wait three days after your spray tan before you shave.
Can You Shave After Tanning In The Sun?
Because shaving irritates the skin, you should avoid shaving after tanning in the sun for at least 2-3 days.
Moisturize your skin daily and drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. If your skin is peeling, it’s best to avoid shaving as this can further irritate already sensitive skin.
If your skin is not peeling, then it’s safe to shave 2-3 days after tanning in the sun.
Post- Spray Tan Grooming Tips
Aside from waiting three days post-tan before you shave, there are some other important post-tan grooming tips you should be aware of.
Following these recommendations will help keep your tan looking its best and avoid streaks, patchy spots, and discoloration.
1. Apply Lotion
Once you’ve shaved, be sure to apply lotion to your skin. Dry skin is one of the biggest culprits behind spray tan not lasting as long as it should, so make sure you don’t skip the moisturizer.
I recommend using a tan-extender lotion as it will help to lock in moisture, keep your skin soft and smooth and extend the life of your tan.
My favorite tan-extender lotion is Millenium Tanning Solid Black Tan Extender Lotion – it has a nice, gentle, clean scent and the combination of argan oil, coconut oil and shea butter keeps your skin super soft and silky.
This is my favorite tan extender lotion – great scent, leaves your skin soft and silky, and helps your tan last longer.
2. Use Sun Protection
Don’t be fooled into thinking that a spray tan will protect you from sunburn.
Unfortunately, there is no protection provided from spray tan against the sun’s harmful rays, so it’s important that you use high-quality sunscreen any time you’re going to be outside.
3. Avoid Swimming and Strenuous Exercise
Unless you want to run the risk of washing your entire gorgeous spray tan away, avoid swimming or strenuous exercise until your tan has had time to set and develop, which usually takes about 24 hours.
Chlorinated pools will strip your tan much faster than the ocean. If possible, try for a beach day rather than a pool day but if that’s not an option, wait at least 24 hours before you take a dip.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Finally, remember that it’s important to drink plenty of water after getting a spray tan. This will help your skin stay hydrated (remember, dry skin is a key factor in a spray tan not losing very long) and keep the tan looking vibrant.
Final Thoughts
You can shave after a spray tan, but it’s best to wait three days post-tan to avoid stripping your tan or causing streaks and patches.
Following the post-tan tips you’ve just read will help your spray tan last longer and avoid patches and streaks.
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