How to Stop Sweat from Ruining Your Fake Tan

It’s safe to say beautifully bronzed skin and a toned physique are two of the most sought-after body-centric beauty traits. But if you aren’t born with a naturally tan complexion and want to steer clear of potential sun damage, it may seem like you have to choose between the two. The fact is, self-tanner and sweat aren’t exactly BFFs. Quite the opposite—we’ve had more than our fair share of intense, sweaty workouts result in patchy, alien-like skin.

Is there any way to achieve your bod goals without having to sacrifice one or the other? Thankfully, the answer is yes! With the help of some pre- and post-workout tips, you can stop sweat from ruining your fake tan once and for all. Interested? Below, we’re sharing five tips to help your self-tanner survive your next sweat sesh. 

TIP #1: POWDER PROBLEM AREAS

Bring on the power of powder! No, we’re not talking about face powder. Our top tip for keeping your tan intact during your workout is to apply talcum or baby powder to areas that are typically exposed to friction and sweat during your time at the gym. Good spots to hit with powder include the crevices of your elbows and knees, your underarms, and your chest. Use a large fluffy makeup brush (a clean powder brush will do the trick) to layer on your powder of choice prior to your workout. The powder will absorb the excess sweat your body produces while also keeping your tan from transferring to your clothes. Win-win!

TIP #2: STICK TO GRADUAL FORMULAS

We know, we know, an instant, super dark tan that creates the illusion you’ve just gotten back from somewhere tropical is probably what you have in mind when you use self-tanner, but hear us out! Opting for a lighter, gradual self-tanner formula will make it easier to do damage control should your tan start to fade. You can easily layer on more of a light, gradual self-tanner to disguise any mishaps, whereas a dark, instant formula will leave behind harsh blotches that are harder to conceal. Consider giving the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Hydrating Self-Tanning Milk Medium a try.

TIP #3: RINSE CLEAN

Waste no time before rinsing off post-sweat. Try your best to hop in the shower as soon as you’re done with your workout! The quicker, the better. Rinsing with cool water will prevent your sweat—which is acidic—from sitting on your fake tan and causing it to break down. 

TIP #4: MAKE MOISTURIZER YOUR BFF

You likely already know lesson number one in the self-tanner 101 handbook is to moisturize on the regular. After your shower, make sure to follow up with an ultra-hydrating lotion. Do so while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture. Give it a second to absorb before getting dressed and moving on with your routine.

TIP #5: HAVE BACK UP HANDY

You know what they say—prepare for the worst, hope for the best. While the above tips should keep your tan in place post-workout, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan. If your tan ends up getting patchy in a spot or two—don’t fret! That’s why you bring back up in your gym bag. Stock it with an exfoliating scrub, lotion, and some tanning towelettes for easy, convenient touch-ups if you need. First, gently exfoliate where your fake tan meets your skin to soften any harsh lines. Then moisturize your skin to prep for a new layer of self-tanner. Smooth your towelette—we love the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Towelettes for Body—over your skin, and you and your tan will be as good as new in no time. Not so scary after all, right? 

Next up: Now that you know how to master sweat vs. self-tanner, let’s tackle another sweat battle you may be struggling with. Here’s How to Achieve a Sweat-Proof Makeup Look.