The recommended duration to postpone bathing following a tanning session, whether from sun exposure or artificial methods, is a matter of maintaining the tan’s longevity and color intensity. This delay allows the pigment to fully develop and bind to the skin. Immediately washing the skin can disrupt this process.
Adhering to the suggested waiting period after tanning aids in maximizing the investment of time and effort. By enabling complete pigment development, the tan lasts longer and displays a more vibrant hue. This practice has roots in understanding the biological processes of melanin production and its interaction with the skin’s surface, refining tanning techniques over time.