
We have all been there. You want to go on vacation and you are worried that your tan will wash off before you return home.
If this has ever crossed your mind, then the following blog post is for you! In this blog post, we will discuss how to use a self tanner so it stays on even when getting wet.
Some people worry that their fake tan will wash off after a long day at the beach or pool. Luckily, waterproof self tanners exist to ensure your beauty rest assured! A waterproof tanner does exactly what you would think – it makes your fake tan water resistant. Therefore, leaving a natural looking glow all day!
How to Prevent Fake Tan from Fading When Swimming
Before Swimming
Before you swimming, there are things you need to do:
1. Make sure you are using a quality fake tan product.
2. Do a pre-tanning routine, and this means you have to exfoliate. You can use an exfoliation glove.
3. Use a non-oily lotion like spray tan solution to moisturize. Also, you can use argan oil or coconut oil.
4. Apply your self tanner and double check that it is waterproof!
We recommend using an applicator mitt for easy application (you can purchase one here ). This will also prevent staining of hands and feet.
5. When you are ready to swim, simply rinse off after getting out of the water.
You do not need soap! This will remove excess tanner that would clog pores and cause breakouts on your skin later on down the road. However, if you have any residual self-tanner left over from prior days of wear, then you will probably want to shower.
During Swimming
While you’re swimming, try not to spend too much time in the water or else your tan will fade away quicker. Also, do not use harsh soaps or chemicals in the water because this will cause your tan to fade faster. Your best bet is to avoid showers if you can – just rinse off instead!

After Swimming
If you’re going to shower after swimming it is important that you don’t use soap. Soap will strip your tan of the color and shine, which means once again: more work for you!
Instead, we recommend using a makeup wipe or aloe vera gel to gently remove any excess tanner. Then, moisturize with a non-oily lotion like watermelon extract.
Benefits of Using Waterproof Tanners
You can find a waterproof self tanner that will make your skin look and feel like it is wearing the perfect outfit. What are some of the benefits?
- There’s no need to worry about getting spray on clothes, since this product won’t streak or run into unwanted areas with water-it’ll stay FAST!
- It also lasts for hours without needing another application which means more time spent enjoying yourself in between sessions as well as less chance of sunburns from overexposure during one afternoon at prom or out by the pool.
- It’s a great way to look your best for any occasion and can be worn confidently knowing that it will stay put throughout whatever fun activities you have planned, leaving you with an all-over golden glow and a tan that will last and last!
Common Waterproof Self Tanner Questions
What kind of self tanners should I use? How long does the process take, and what are some precautions that will help me get it done safely? I hear so many people asking these questions. We’ve got you covered!
What is a Waterproof Self Tanner?
Waterproof self tanners are specially formulated sunless tanning products. They work the same way regular self-tanners do; however, they contain added ingredients to make your fake tan water resistant for up to twenty four hours!
This means you can get in the pool or go surfing without having to worry about losing that summer glow.
How Long Do Waterproof Self Tanners Take To Dry?
Waterproof self tanners are much lighter than regular self-tanners. This is because they contain a water soluble base, which makes them easy to rub in and dry quickly.
Unlike traditional sunless tanning products , waterproof formulas do not require time for drying or hardening off before you get dressed.

How Long Do Waterproof Self Tanners Last?
Most waterproof self tanners last anywhere from three to seven days on your skin . What is great about this, is that it gives you the opportunity for a gradual tanner with regular applications!
Since these types of sunless tanning products are designed to be long lasting and fade gradually, they are perfect for people who want to slowly build up their tan.
How Does Salt Water Affect Sunless Tanners
Salt water is a common pool additive, and it can be harsh on your skin. Saltwater alone will cause you to wash off any sunless tanner in no time flat!
However, if you are using a waterproof sunless tanner, then the salt water will not have an effect on it. This is because these types of self tanners contain special ingredients designed to protect your skin from harsh elements like chlorine and ocean-borne saltwater.
Why Does Pool Water Remove Fake Tanners?
Pool water can be harsh on your skin. For this reason, sunscreen is typically used in the summer to protect your skin from harmful UV rays .
However, since sunless tanners work as a barrier between you and the outside environment , they do not require any SPF application! This means pool water will have no effect whatsoever on your beautiful new tan.
How Does Salt and Chlorine Affect Your Fake Tan?
Salt and chlorine are common water additives at the pool. Just like your skin, these chemicals can cause sunless tanners to fade faster than normal.
This is why it is important that you rinse off before entering the pool or ocean after applying any type of fake tanner.
How Should I Prepare My Skin For A Waterproof Self Tanner?
Before applying a waterproof self tanner, it is important to make sure your skin is clean and dry . This will ensure that you get an even application as well as prolong the life of your color!
In addition, exfoliating prior to using a sunless tanner will eliminate dead skin cells and signs of peeling.
What Are Some Precautions I Should Take When Applying A Waterproof Self Tanner?
One thing to take into consideration when using a waterproof sunless tanning product is that you should not apply it over hair . Since the base is water soluble, there has been some concern about how it will react with hair.
It is also important that you do not apply a sunless tanner after shaving . Since your skin is already sensitive from the razor burn, it may cause issues when trying to achieve an even application throughout your body.
How Do I Reapply A Sunless Tan If My Color Fades?
If you find that your tan begins to fade, then you can simply reapply your sunless tanner after three days . This will give the product time to build up and prolong your color.
Just remember that if you apply a self-tanner more than once in four weeks , it may cause streaking or patchiness on the skin.
What Is The Difference Between Fake & Natural Tans?
Fake tanners use DHA (dihydroxyacetone) as the active ingredient to produce color.
This is a completely safe organic compound that interacts with dead skin cells on the surface of your body, creating an orange-brown appearance .
On the other hand, natural tanners are rich in melanin, which is the pigment that gives your skin its color. When applied, natural tanners work by darkening and enriching your existing tan while moisturizing dry skin .
What Does A Waterproof Self Tanner Look Like?
Waterproof self tanners are clear products that have consistency of water .
This means it is very easy to see where the product has been applied, which makes it easier to avoid streaking or missing spots. Some formulas also come with a moisturizing ingredient for added hydration.
How to Apply Waterproof Self Tanner Safely
Waterproof self tanners should be applied the same way as regular sunless tanning products . However, you will want to pay closer attention to your knees and elbows – two places that are more typical spots for product streaking or unevenness.

What is the Best Waterproof Self Tanner?
There are many different types of waterproof self tanners on the market today, but there are two that stand out from all the rest!
1. First up is St. Tropez’s One Hour Express Sunless Tan Mousse. This product goes on smooth and dries quickly for a natural looking color. Secondly, the St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse is a rich foam that delivers an instant color to your skin with no orange tint!
2. Another product you can look into is the St. Moriz Instant Self Tanning Mousse. This product is popular for its quick application and streak-free formula, making it the perfect choice for your legs – one of the most difficult areas to apply a sunless tanner!
And if you aren’t satisfied yet, you can try another product like the St. Moriz Liquid Gold Self Tanning Lotion. This product is a tinted version of the original and it won’t leave you feeling sticky!
As a final note, waterproof self tanners are the perfect accessory to any outfit. It will not fade right away and it is easy to apply. You just have to be sure to exfoliate, shave and apply the product evenly so that you get a great result.