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by Iris George
Love yourself a sun-kissed glow – but love your gym sessions just as much? No sweat. While working out is often seen as the natural nemesis of an even, long-lasting self-tan, we’re not here to tell you to skip the spin class.
Sure. All that sweating, friction and post-sesh showering can accelerate your fake tan fade out. But there’s nothing like exercise to give you naturally clear and healthy-looking skin – not even your favorite bottle of sunshine.
So, what's a tan-loving gym bunny meant to do to maintain beautifully bronzed skin? Read on for the essential steps to sweatproof your tan to last through any workout. Let’s glow, girls!
First things first, why is exercise a threat to your tan? A little issue called sweat. When you work out, you perspire, and that sweat can cause your tan to fade faster, especially if you're not careful. Plus, all that rubbing from your clothes and sports bra and those extra post-workout showers can slough away your tan sooner – leaving you looking patchier than a Dalmatian dog.
But fear not, with a little prep and some clever tricks, you can keep your tan looking fresh throughout a week of heavy-duty sweat sessions!
Patience is key, my friend. Don't rush into the gym right after applying your self-tanner or you’re destined for disaster. Give your faux glow some time to develop properly before you start sweating it out. Ideally, wait at least 8-10 hours after application before hitting the gym or pounding the pavement.
Before you reach for your tanning glove, make sure you’re using a self-tan with a sweat-resistant formula, like Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam. With hydrating ingredients to help prolong the life of your tan (no matter how much you work out), the transfer-proof formula won’t rub off on your clothes. Or run down your cleavage as you sweat.
Your choice of workout attire can also make a big difference in preserving your tan. Go for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that fit well but aren't too tight. Avoid rough or abrasive materials that can rub against your skin and cause your tan to fade unevenly.
Fact: Fake tan on the face tends to fade faster due to twice daily cleansing and the use of active skincare ingredients like AHAs. If you’re working out daily, you might also be washing your face more often – further fast-tracking the fade.
To make sure your face matches the skin on your neck and body, Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist is your BFF. Simply spritz onto clean, dry skin in one super-easy motion.
Heading away on an active holiday and want your glow to go the distance? Make sure you pack a tanning survival kit for quick and easy top-ups. Also ideal for your gym bag, our Tan Masters Set includes our spritz-and-go Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist, plus a mini Bali Bronzing Foam, and Kabuki Brush for flawless application in tricky areas like elbows, knees ankles and hands.
We know – nothing beats a hot shower after a tough workout. But it's not so great for your tan. As well as causing dehydration, hot water can strip away the top layer of your skin, taking your tan along with it. Stick with lukewarm showers instead, keeping them on the short side if possible.
Read more expert tips on how to shower after using self-tanner for a longer-lasting glow.
Like to plunge after you lunge? If possible, skip the pool while sporting a fake tan – or at least rinse off with fresh water immediately after swimming. Chlorine can cause your tan to fade faster, so it's best to avoid it to maintain your golden glow.
Hydration is key to keeping your tan looking fresh and radiant for longer. Moisturize your skin regularly, especially after showering or sweating. Look for moisturizers and body lotions with hydrating ingredients like coconut oil (it’s in our Body Moisture Whip!), hyaluronic acid or aloe vera to keep your skin soft and supple while prolonging your glow.
Drinking plenty of water is essential when exercising. And it will also help maintain your tan. Staying hydrated helps keep your skin moisturized from the inside out, preventing it from drying out and causing your tan to fade faster. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day – and more if you're sweating heavily during your workouts.
Don’t let your faux glow fool you – you still need to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially if working out outdoors. Wear a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen when you're exposed to the sun, and reapply it regularly, especially if you're sweating heavily.
There you have it, folks – your ultimate guide to sweat-proofing your tan and making it last through even the toughest workout. With these tips and tricks up your sleeve, you can go hard at the gym without worrying about your tan losing its shine. Now go get your sweat on and flaunt that golden glow with confidence!
Written By: Pip Jarvis
Edited By: Iris
