How-to extend your tan

How to get your tan to last 7 days or longer

You got the best self-tanning mousse and your sundresses and sandals are packed. You just turned on your “OOO” and you’ve never been more ready for a nice long vacay. You’ve already triple-checked that you packed the sunscreen yet something’s still bugging you. It’s the fake tan fiasco from your last vacation!

You got a spray tan the day before your trip and are beaming with that faux glow confidence. Until you get to the beach, frolic in the ocean, and helplessly watch your color dissolve into a splotchy, orange mess. We totally get it because we’ve been there and are haunted by the fake tans of our past too. Here are full-proof healthy skin care hacks to guarantee your glow for 7 days or more.

Do it at home, not at the salon

A professional spray tan is great… for a day or two. By using a natural and nontoxic self-tanning mousse at home, you’re taking control of your glow. It works with your body to gradually deepen and fade compared to the cosmetic color that’s sprayed on at the salon. That means, the healthy self-tanning mousse won’t look funny on your hands and feet, it won’t get splotchy and it will never peel off. Not to mention, saves you time and money.

Don’t skip the prep work

A quality canvas is important here. Exfoliate using a scrub or body brush. Shave or wax the day before. Then make sure your legs are totally dry when you’re ready to apply. You don’t want to have any lotions or oils that might get in the way of the foam absorbing into your skin.

Time your showers

Avoid getting wet for at least 4-6 hours. The longer you can wait the better. We recommend getting your shower out of the way before applying your tanner or waiting till the next day. If you feel gross and can’t stand to wait, make it a super quick rinse. Save the long, hot showers for the winter months when you’re wearing sweats.

Moisturize like it’s your job

A body cream is going to lock in your tan just like it’s going to lock in moisture. Not only will keeping your skin hydrated extend your tan, it’ll boost your glow and make your skin look oh-so-fabulous.

Avoid hot tubs, long baths, chlorinated pools and saltwater

This is a tough one when you’re on vacation, we know we know. Unfortunately, all of these things dry out your skin and take your tan with it. If any of these are non-negotiables for you (they are for us!) then just be prepared to apply another coat of tanning mousse when you reach your next beauty routine.

Go ahead and reapply!

We’ll say it again! Go for another round! Whether your tan has faded after a dip in the pool or it’s just not as dark as you’d like, another coat of tanning mousse is always a good idea in our opinion. Continuing the loop of applying our natural and nontoxic self tanner not only builds your color, it can keep it going for weeks on end.

Pack a TSA approved travel-sized bottle

This is a vacay must! A surefire way to maintain a healthy tan on your trip, bring it with you! Our cute little travel-size Seafoam Glow bottles and long weekends are a match made in paradise.

Click here to shop the best natural sunless tanner and save with the Vacay Ready Bundle ($54 value).