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Summer is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to get your perfect sun-kissed glow.
There are a lot of different ways to achieve this, but one of the most popular methods is using self-tanner.
However, many people are concerned that the tan will come off when they go swimming.
In this blog post, we will answer the question: does self-tanner come off when you swim?
Generally speaking, a high-quality self-tanner won’t simply wash away when you swim. However, if you spend a prolonged amount of time in the water, you can expect your tan to fade faster.
Ocean water and chlorinated pool water are both corrosive, which can dry out your skin and cause your tan to start wearing off, leaving dry, patchy areas of skin.
Chlorine can speed up the process of the self-tanner coming off, but it’s not for the reasons most people think. Many people believe that chlorine will bleach the self-tanner off your skin, but that’s not the case.
The chlorine in pool water is mainly responsible for causing your skin to become dry. Therefore, the more time you spend in that pool, especially if the tan hasn’t had enough time to set in, the drier your skin will be.
This will cause the dreaded scenario of your self-tanner flaking off.
While swimming can cause self-tanner to wear off quicker, it doesn’t mean you need to avoid taking a dip this summer! There are a few steps to follow that can help ensure your self-tanner lasts longer even while you enjoy the water.
First things first, always remember to exfoliate your skin before applying self-tanner. This ensures better adhesion since the skin will be much smoother and ready for the tanning formula.
Next, don’t jump into the water until at least eight hours have passed after applying your self-tanner. This gives the formula the time it needs to settle into your skin, ensuring it won’t come off as soon as you take a shower, break a sweat, or take a relaxing dip in the pool.
Lastly, it’s important not to spend too long in the water if you want to ensure your tan won’t wear off quickly.
Even if you follow the previous tips, being overexposed to water or moisture will still cause the tan to fade away faster.
Instead, spend some time in the water, get out, pat yourself dry with a soft towel, and enjoy a good book or drinks by the pool. Then, wait a little while before jumping back in.
If you keep this routine, your tan should last a similar length of time to if you weren’t swimming at all.
If you notice your self-tanner coming off, you can always prolong its effects by using a gradual tanning lotion, like the Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk.
This lotion won’t only help your tan last longer, but it’ll also contain nutrients, vitamins, and moisturizing elements that will keep your skin hydrated.
✅ Builds up a gradual tan
✅ Moisturizer lasts for up to 24 hours
✅ Contains Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, both important for after sun exposure
✅ Cocoa butter scent
No, swimming itself, just like running, walking, or any other sport, won’t cause your self-tanner to come off.
In fact, swimming doesn’t include as much friction as most other sports or activities. The main culprits of self-tanner coming off are sweat, friction, and dry skin.
Many people will say that swimming and fake tanning don’t mix, and they’re not entirely wrong. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a heavenly dip in the pool with your bronze glow intact.
Ensure you wait at least 8 hours after applying self-tanner, keep your dips short and sweet and make sure your skin stays moisturized to extend the life of your tan.
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