Is it tru that after tanning, either naturally or in a bed, you should wait a few hours to shower?

Why is this? I can't imagine soap and water being able to wash away your tan.

Is it tru that after tanning, either naturally or in a bed, you should wait a few hours to shower?
I have been tanning for years and I usually get a shower right after tanning because of sweating. You can't wash away a tan unless you get the spray tan at the spa. Tanning is basically burning your skin temporarily.
Reply:Yes. Only because it allows the oils and natural reaction to tanning to 'set-in'. Many times, the lotion you use will also contain a tint that needs to be on a certain amount of time to tan.
Reply:If your getting spray tanned then yes you need to wait, but if your getting tanned in a bed, or naturally that is complete nonsense a shower will not wash away your tan.
Reply:the only reason u wouldn`t want to shower immediately after tanning would be if u are using a lotion that contains bronzers, in which case it`s necessary to give a couple of hours for the bronzing agents to be properly absorbed into your skin...otherwise, it`s ok!!! i`ve been tanning for many years %26amp; usually get a shower right away, %26amp; it hasn`t affected my color...
Reply:I used to manage a tanning salon and I always recommended not showering or shaving until at least couple of hours after the session. I know it's kind of gross, but REALLY helps with the tanning process! The reasoning is when you wash, whether it be with a wash cloth or body poof, you are sloughing off the skin on top, which is the part you just tanned. You need to let the tan set in your skin, as stated in another answer above. What I would say you should do with in those two hours (better if done immediately) is put on a generous amount of lotion on your skin. This really helps by sealing in the tan! : ) Happy Tanning!
Reply:Showering will not "wash away" your tan. Shower away. =)