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Professional Tips & Advice

Will swimming remove fake tan?

3 Min Read Friday 14th July 2023

One of the main questions asked by people who are looking to fake tan is whether or not you can go swimming with a tan, and whether or not tan will be removed when you do decide to go for a dip. The answer is… it depends! Let our tanning experts dive into everything you need to know about swimming with a fake tan.

Can you go swimming with fake tan?

The answer in short is yes! You absolutely can go swimming with a fake tan, so there is nothing stopping you from diving into the pool. It is worth bearing in mind that while you can happily cool off in the water, your tan may suffer as a result.

Swimming for long periods of time can cause your sunless tan to fade away a little bit quicker. We recommend that you take quick dips in the pool to prevent a premature tan fade-off due to swimming.

Why does fake tan fade when swimming?

Fake tan works by causing the cells on the top surface of the skin to darken. It’s not absorbed deeper into the skin and lies solely on the uppermost layer, known as the epidermis. As your old skin cells start to flake away your tan will begin to gently fade off. And water is one of the key culprits that dries the skin, causing the cells to flake off quicker. Therefore the lifespan of your sunless tan will depend on how well you care for your skin and how much time you spend in the pool, the sea and the shower.

Does fake tan come off in the swimming pool?

When deciding to go for a swim in the nearest swimming pool it is worth considering how your new fake tan may react. Although the chlorine found in swimming pools can lead to a faster ‘fade-off’ you can still enjoy a swim and protect your tan. The key is to take quick dips to reduce the time your tan is in contact with the water and to gently pat yourself dry once you’ve come out of the pool to avoid rubbing off any colour.

How do I go swimming and still prolong my tan?

If you want to jump in the pool but still maintain that golden glow for longer, we recommend that you moisturise after swimming. This will help to hydrate your skin and prevent your skin cells from sloughing off too soon. You can also use a moisturiser that contains the magic tanning ingredient DHA in your daily beauty routine. Sienna X Gradual Self Tan Lotion is the ideal option – simply apply all over the skin like a moisturiser and the sun-kissed results will develop over the course of a few hours. This subtle ‘top-up’ will ensure that your skin looks gorgeously golden for your entire vacation and maybe even beyond.


Want to book with the best? Our Therapist Locator guides you effortlessly to Sienna X professionals in your area. Sienna X therapists are meticulously trained, ensuring unrivalled expertise and comforting care. Book with confidence and experience the best in spray tan services – find your Sienna Xpert near you today!

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