Stay Hydrated All Winter to Protect Your Glow

tanningliny
Jan 25
3 min read

Winter weather on Long Island can be brutal on your skin. Cold temperatures, indoor heat, and dry air all work against your natural moisture barrier—leading to flaky, tight skin that causes spray tans to crack, fade unevenly, or turn patchy far too quickly.

If you want your spray tan to last longer, fade evenly, and maintain that smooth glow, hydration is non-negotiable—especially during winter.

As a mobile spray tan specialist serving East Northport, Northport, Fort Salonga, Huntington, Smithtown etc I see this every season. Clients who stay hydrated (inside and out) always have the best results.

Why Winter Dehydration Ruins Spray Tans

Spray tan solution develops in the top layer of your skin. When skin is dry, cracked, or compromised, the color settles unevenly and sheds faster.

Common winter skin issues that affect spray tans:

Flaking around ankles, wrists, elbows, and knees
Patchy fading after only a few days
Cracking or dark buildup in dry areas
Uneven color absorption

Hydrated skin = smooth canvas = longer-lasting, more natural spray tan results.

Internal Hydration: The Glow Starts From Within

Topical products help, but internal hydration is the foundation of healthy skin.

Winter hydration tips:

Drink water consistently throughout the day (not just when thirsty)
Add electrolytes if plain water feels hard to keep up with
Limit excess caffeine and alcohol before and after your spray tan
Increase hydrating foods like cucumbers, citrus, berries, and soups

Well-hydrated skin holds spray tan color better and fades more evenly.

External Hydration: Winter Skincare That Protects Your Tan

1. Switch to a Rich, Tan-Safe Moisturizer

Light summer lotions are not enough in winter. Choose a fragrance-free, sulfate-free lotion or tan extender with ingredients like:

Shea butter
Hyaluronic acid
Ceramides
Squalane

Apply daily, especially after showering.

2. Moisturize Dry Areas Every Day

Pay extra attention to:

Ankles and feet
Hands and wrists
Knees and elbows

These areas dry out first and are where spray tans crack or fade unevenly.

3. Avoid Long, Hot Showers

Hot water strips moisture and accelerates spray tan fading. Stick to warm water and keep showers short.

Pre-Spray Tan Hydration Matters Too

If you arrive at your spray tan appointment already dry, no solution can fully fix that.

Before your mobile spray tan appointment in East Northport, Northport, Fort Salonga, Huntington, & Smithtown:

Begin moisturizing daily at least 5–7 days prior
Stop exfoliating 24 hours before your tan
Avoid applying heavy lotions the day of your appointment unless directed

Proper prep allows your spray tan to develop evenly and last its full lifespan.

Post-Tan Hydration = Longer-Lasting Results

The #1 reason winter spray tans fade early is lack of moisture after the tan.

To extend your glow:

Moisturize morning and night
Drink plenty of water for at least 72 hours post-tan
Wear loose clothing
Avoid excessive sweating the first 24 hours

Clients who follow these steps consistently get days more wear from their spray tan.

Winter Spray Tans Done Right on Long Island

If you’re booking a mobile spray tan in East Northport, Northport, Fort Salonga, Huntington, & Smithtown, hydration is just as important as the solution itself.

I customize every spray tan based on: