Best Spray Tan Safe Body Wash: 4 Top Picks

Aug 4
3 min read

If you've ever hopped in the shower after a fresh spray tan and watched half your color swirl down the drain, your body wash is probably the culprit. Not every body wash is a spray tan safe body wash — a lot of the drugstore staples you already own are quietly working against your glow. Below are my four go-to picks for prepping skin before a tan and keeping it looking fresh once you're glowing.

What Makes a Body Wash Spray Tan Safe?

Before we get to the list, it helps to know what to look for. A true spray tan safe body wash is:

Sulfate-free — sulfates are the detergents that create a heavy lather, and they strip color fast
Oil-free — oils create a barrier that can cause a spray tan to develop unevenly, so save the oil-based washes for after your tan has faded
Fragrance-free or lightly scented — heavy fragrance often means added alcohol, which dries skin out and fades tan lines faster
Gentle / hydrating — the more hydrated your skin is, the longer and more evenly your tan will last

The 4 Best Spray Tan Safe Body Wash Options

1. Native Body Wash — Best All-Around Pick

Native is my top recommendation and the one I point most brides to. It's sulfate-free, which makes it safe to use both in your pre-tan prep shower and in the days after your appointment to maintain your color. Most drugstores, grocery stores and Target carry a wide range of Native scents, so you're not stuck with one option.

2. Cetaphil Ultra Gentle Body Wash — Best for Sensitive or Dry Skin

Cetaphil's Ultra Gentle formula is soap-free and built for hydration, which means it won't leave your skin flaky or tight after washing — a common problem with harsher washes that can make a fading tan look patchy. If your skin tends to run dry or sensitive, this is the safest bet.

3. Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash — Best Fragrance-Free Option

Dove's Sensitive Skin formula is fragrance-free and about as gentle as body wash gets, making it a solid choice if fragrance tends to irritate your skin or if you just want one less variable to worry about before a big event.

4. Method Simply Nourish Body Wash — Best Budget-Friendly Pick

Method's Simply Nourish body wash is the most affordable option on this list without cutting corners — it's formulated with coconut, rice milk, and shea butter, all of which help leave skin moisturized rather than stripped. It's easy to find at Target and most grocery stores, so it's a convenient grab if you're prepping last-minute.

How to Use a Spray Tan Safe Body Wash Before and After Your Appointment

Before your spray tan, shower and exfoliate, this removes any lotion, deodorant, or oil buildup that could cause your tan to develop unevenly. After your appointment, wait at least the recommended development time before rinsing and continue using a gentle, moisturizing and sulfate-free wash for the life of your tan. Avoid hot water and heavy scrubbing, both of which fade color faster than the wash itself.

Final Thoughts

The right body wash won't make or break your tan on its own, but pairing a spray tan safe body wash with good prep habits is one of the easiest ways to make your color last longer and fade more evenly. If you're a bride prepping for your wedding day glow, I offer airbrush spray tanning as an add-on to your bridal booking — contact me to check availability for your date.

Follow along with me on Instagram to see more about spray tanning @DianaMarieMakeupArtistry