How to Fix a Spray Tan If You Get Water On It – Austin’s Expert Tips

Natasha
Aug 5
3 min read

Ever wondered how to fix a spray tan if you get water on it? You’re not alone. Here in Austin, sudden rain showers, sweaty workouts, or accidental splashes can happen — and it’s easy to panic if you think your gorgeous glow is ruined.

The good news? A little water doesn’t always mean you need to start from scratch. At 360 Tans, we help clients troubleshoot these situations every day. Here’s what to do if water accidentally hits your spray tan.

Why Water Can Mess Up a Spray Tan

Spray tans need time to develop properly on your skin. When water touches a fresh tan:

It can cause drips or streaks
The color might look uneven
The bronzer guide (the temporary cosmetic color) can shift or blot away

But don’t worry — it doesn’t always mean your entire tan is ruined.

How to Fix a Spray Tan If You Get Water On It

If this happens, don’t scrub or wipe immediately. Instead, take one of these steps depending on how severe the issue is:

✅ Option 1 – Shower and Get Resprayed (If It’s Bad)

If water caused significant streaking or removed large areas of color:

It’s often best to shower, gently wash off the bronzer, and come back for a respray.
This ensures you get even, fresh color without patchiness.
At 360 Tans, we’re always happy to help clients fix their tan and avoid long-lasting mistakes.

✅ Option 2 – Pat the Area Gently (If It’s Minor)

If the water spot is small:

Don’t rub. Instead, take a soft, dry microfiber towel and gently pat the area.
Lightly press the bronzer back into the skin.
Sometimes this can blend the cosmetic color enough that it’s not noticeable once the tan develops.

✅ Option 3 – Touch Up with Sunless Tanner

If you’ve blotted off some color and it looks lighter in spots:

You might need to reapply color with a sunless tanning spray.
We recommend using a light mist product like Brazilian Mist.
Spray lightly over the affected area and blend well.
Multiple light coats are better than one heavy coat to avoid further blotchiness.

This is an excellent way to save your tan without a full respray if only small areas need correction.

Prevention Tips – How to Avoid Water Mishaps

Water can sneak into your day in surprising ways. Here’s how to protect your spray tan from unexpected drips and splashes:

✅ Wait the full development time your technician advises before getting wet (usually 6–8 hours, or less for rapid tans).

✅ Stay dry if rain is in the forecast. Bring an umbrella and wear loose clothing.

✅ Avoid sweaty workouts right after your spray tan.

✅ Be careful washing hands, brushing teeth, or cooking — splashes happen!

✅ Avoid household chores like:

Doing dishes
Swapping laundry between washer and dryer
Unloading the dishwasher
Bathing pets
✅ Watch out for dog kisses! Pet licks can create uneven spots in fresh tans
✅ Wear loose, dark clothing after your tan to reduce the risk of smudges.

A little caution goes a long way to keep your tan smooth and flawless in Austin’s unpredictable weather and busy lifestyle.

Why Trust 360 Tans for Spray Tan Fixes in Austin?

At 360 Tans, we:

Hand-apply every spray tan for precision and even color
Offer clear and tinted options to match your lifestyle
Have technicians who know how to troubleshoot water mishaps
Carry products like Brazilian Mist to help fix small areas at home
Provide a no-pressure, friendly environment so you feel comfortable asking for help

Accidents happen — and we’re here to help keep your glow flawless.

Need Help Fixing Your Spray Tan in Austin?

If you’ve gotten water on your spray tan and aren’t sure what to do, don’t stress.Contact us at Austin360Tans.com or come see us in the studio. We’re happy to assess the situation and recommend the best fix — so you can get back to glowing with confidence.

Proudly Serving Spray Tanning Clients Across Austin

360 Tans proudly helps clients learn how to fix a spray tan if you get water on it, serving clients from Westlake Hills, Rollingwood, Mueller, South Lamar, Cedar Park, and Barton Hills. Your perfect glow is always our goal!