How long will a spray tan last?
So, you're considering a spray tan for the first time, or maybe you've had one before and felt like it faded way too fast. Now you're wondering—how long will this glow actually last? The answer: it depends on how well you prep, what ingredients are in the solution, and how well you take care of it! If you do all things right, your tan should last about 10-14 days! A spray tan isn’t just a set-it-and-forget-it deal—there are things you can do to keep it looking flawless for as long as possible and get the most from your money. Let’s dive into the details.
Pre-Tan Prep: The Secret to a Long-Lasting Glow
If you want your spray tan to last as long as possible, preparation is key. The better you prep, the longer your tan will stick around!
Exfoliate Like a Pro: Start at least a week before your appointment and do it twice to buff away dead skin cells. The smoother your skin, the better the tan will absorb.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Hydrated skin = a longer-lasting tan. Apply lotion daily, especially after exfoliating.
Hair Removal Timing Matters: Shave at least 24 hours before and wax at least 48 hours before to avoid irritation.
No Shower or Swimming Before Your Tan: Keep your skin dry for at least 4 hours before your spray session.
Hydrate from the Inside Out: Drink tons of water! Hydrated skin holds onto color better, meaning your tan will last longer.
Choosing the Right Spray Tan Matters!
Not all spray tans are created equal, and picking the right formula makes a huge difference in how long your tan will last. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality tan is worth it to get the most from your money!
Look for solutions that are free from drying ingredients like:
Alcohols
Sulfates
Harsh chemicals that strip moisture
A good tanning solution will hydrate your skin and fade naturally—no weird patchy look! This goes for both spray tans and self-tanners. The right ingredients = a tan that sticks around longer.
Post-Tan Maintenance: What You Should Be Doing
Now that you’re beautifully bronzed, let’s talk about keeping that glow intact. Follow these golden rules, and your tan will thank you:
Shower Smart: Keep your showers cool and short. Hot water is a tan killer! Use gentle, hydrating body washes—nothing too harsh.
Pat, Don’t Rub: When drying off, pat yourself dry with a towel instead of rubbing to avoid scrubbing off your tan.
Moisturize Like Your Tan Depends on It (Because It Does!): Pick a tan-friendly moisturizer that’s free from alcohols, fragrances, sulfates, and mineral oils. Shea butter and baby moisturizers are amazing options!
Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: A spray tan doesn’t contain SPF, so always wear a tan-safe sunscreen when heading out. Not only will this protect your skin from burning (and therefore peeling and tan fading), it will also form a barrier between your skin and any pools or oceans you might be swimming in.
Humidity is Your Friend: If you’re always blasting the AC or heat, or you live in a drier climate, consider using a humidifier. Your skin (and tan) will thank you!
I Bet You Never Thought These Things Could Fade Your Tan!
Believe it or not, some sneaky everyday habits could be sabotaging your glow without you even realizing it! Here are some unexpected tan-fading culprits:
Oil-Based Products: Oils break down the tan and make it fade unevenly. If you ever need to remove a spray tan quickly, oils are actually your best bet—so avoid them if you want your glow to last!
Harsh Ingredients: Some lotions and body sprays contain alcohol, which can dry out and fade your tan fast.
Perfume: Spritzing perfume directly onto your skin? Big mistake! Many fragrances contain alcohol, which can break down your tan quickly. Try spraying it on your clothes instead!
Washing Dishes & Cleaning Products: Constantly washing dishes with harsh detergents? That soapy water can fade the color on your hands fast! Wear gloves to protect your tan.
Tight Clothing & Fabric Friction: Tight clothes rub against your skin, causing it to exfoliate more quickly. Stick to loose, breathable fabrics to help your tan last longer!
Environmental Factors: Sun, wind, heat, humidity, and pollution all play a role in how long your tan lasts.
Your Skincare Routine Matters: Many face care products, like retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, cause skin to exfoliate faster, meaning your tan won’t stick around as long. Try to avoid these while you have your tan on. If you really do need to use them, consider getting a face tan mist or gradual tanner to touch up your face tan and keep your face glowing with the rest of your body.
Skin Conditions May Affect Longevity: If you have eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or dermatitis, your skin may shed more quickly, making your tan fade faster so make sure you think about the products you use to keep these conditions at bay, and keep your skin hydrated.
Tanning on Vacation? Read This First!
Planning to hit the pool or ocean? Chlorine and salt water can be tough on spray tans! Check out my blog on How to maintain your tan while on vacation for expert tips on keeping your glow intact even when you’re splashing around.
So… How Long Will Your Spray Tan Last?
A well-maintained spray tan should last 10-14 days if you follow these tips so you can stretch it out as long as possible and keep that glow going! Prepping correctly, picking a high-quality solution, and following smart aftercare steps will keep your tan looking fresh.
With a little TLC, you’ll stay glowing and golden for longer—because no one wants a tan that disappears overnight! 🌞✨
