No, hot water is generally not good for maintaining a tan.
Showering in excessively hot water can have a detrimental effect on the longevity and appearance of your tan. As the reference highlights, "Showering in crazy hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause it to dry out. And we all know that dry skin = flaky tan." This loss of essential moisture makes the skin surface dry and prone to flaking, which causes the tan to fade unevenly and diminish more quickly.
Maintaining hydrated and supple skin is key to extending the life of a tan, whether it's a natural sun tan or a self-tan application. Dry skin cells shed faster, taking your tan with them.
Tips for Maintaining Your Tan in the Shower
To help preserve your tan and keep your skin healthy, consider the following adjustments to your shower routine:
- Lower the Temperature: Keep your shower temperature down. Using cooler or lukewarm water instead of hot helps prevent the stripping of natural oils, keeping your skin more hydrated and your tan intact longer. The reference advises, "Keep your shower temperature down to extend the life of your tan."
- Use Moisturising Cleansers: Opt for a gentle, moisturising shower cream or wash. These products help cleanse the skin without drying it out. The reference suggests, "For extra tanning points, use a moisturising shower cream to keep skin supple and hydrated."
- Limit Shower Time: While not mentioned in the reference, shorter showers can also contribute to better skin hydration compared to prolonged exposure to water, regardless of temperature.
- Pat Dry, Don't Rub: After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing vigorously, which can exfoliate the skin and remove tan prematurely.
- Moisturise After: Apply a good quality body moisturiser immediately after showering to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated.
By avoiding hot water and focusing on hydration, you can significantly improve how long your tan lasts and ensure it fades more gracefully.
