Quick answer
Yes, showering won't wash off a tan. If you used a lotion with a bronzer, check the bottle: some bronzers keep developing for a few hours, so showering too soon can rinse some colour away. Use lukewarm rather than hot water, pat your skin dry and moisturise afterwards to keep your colour looking even.
Your tan won't wash off
A tan develops in your skin, so water doesn't remove it. You can shower after a session without losing it.
Bronzers are different
Bronzer lotions add cosmetic colour to the surface of your skin. Some develop over a few hours, and showering straight away can rinse off part of the colour. Follow the timing on your lotion's label. More in accelerator vs bronzer vs tingle.
How to shower to keep your colour
- Use lukewarm water: hot water dries the skin.
- Keep showers short.
- Use a gentle, moisturising wash rather than harsh soap.
- Pat dry instead of rubbing.
- Moisturise straight afterwards.
If your skin feels hot or sore
A cool shower can soothe it, but heat or soreness means you may have burnt. See what to do if you burn on a sunbed.
For more ways to keep your colour, see how to make your tan last longer.
