If you’ve just stepped out of the spray tanning booth or are planning your first appointment, you’ve likely asked yourself, “How can I make this gorgeous glow last as long as possible?” The good news is that there are specific steps you can take before, during, and after your tanning session to maximize your results. What you’ll learn in this guide is how to make your spray tan last longer and mistakes that are best to avoid so you don’t end up looking like an oompa-loompa for days, or even weeks!
From understanding the science behind your spray tan to the best products and expert-approved habits, we’ve covered everything you need to know.
How Spray Tans Work & Why They Fade
The Role of DHA in Sunless Tanning
Spray tans rely on DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a simple sugar derived from natural sources like sugar beets or cane. When applied to your skin, DHA reacts with amino acids in the outermost layer of your epidermis to produce your tan’s golden hue. Think of it as a chemical cocktail that essentially “stains” the dead skin cells sitting on the surface.
Skin Turnover & Why Tans Don’t Last
Here’s the catch: your skin renews itself constantly. Natural shedding means that the dead, DHA-tinted skin cells that make up your tan will eventually flake off. On average, you lose your outer skin every 5–7 days, which is why many spray tans start fading after the first week.
Factors That Accelerate Fading
Certain habits and products can speed up spray tan fading:
Over-scrubbing in the shower
Using sulfate-heavy body washes
Swimming in chlorinated water
Heavy sweating during workouts
Harsh towel drying
By avoiding these and sticking to a proactive routine, you can keep your tan looking fresh much longer.
What to Do Before Your Spray Tan
Skin Barrier Reset: Gentle pH-Balancing Wash
Before tanning, use a pH-balanced body wash to prep your skin. Harsh soaps can strip your skin of its natural oils, resulting in uneven DHA development. A gentle cleanser ensures an even application.
The 3-Day Pre-Tan Moisture Strategy
Hydrated skin holds a tan better! Three days before your spray tan, up your moisturizing routine with a tan-friendly lotion (free of oils or retinols). Start moisturizing twice daily to ensure your skin is smooth, but avoid applying lotion on the actual day of your appointment.
Ingredients to Avoid
Certain skincare ingredients interfere with DHA absorption:
1
Sulfates (found in many body washes and shampoos)
2
Retinols (often found in anti-aging creams)
3
Acids (like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid)
Skip these 3–5 days before and after your session for best results.
Body Hair Removal
Timing is critical here! Wax at least 24–48 hours before tanning to allow your skin to heal. Shaving is preferred on the day before your session since freshly shaved skin can absorb the formula unevenly.
Pro Diet Tweaks That Prime the Skin
Boost your skin’s hydration from within by eating water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon. Add healthy fats found in avocados, salmon, and nuts for extra skin nourishment.
What to Do During Your Spray Tan
Requesting the Right Shade for Your Skin Tone
A good spray tan starts with the right shade. Share your desired outcome with your technician, and match your shade to your skin’s undertone for optimal results and a natural look.
Barrier Cream Application Science
Don’t skip the barrier cream! Apply generously to your hands, feet, knees, and elbows. These areas absorb more DHA, leading to darker, uneven patches if left unprotected.
Best Practices for Posing & Breathing
Strike a pose! Follow your technician’s guidance to avoid streaks, and remember to breathe lightly and evenly so the product applies smoothly across your torso.
Fabric-Free Finish
After your session, skip bras and underwear for at least 6–8 hours to prevent rubbing or smudging the fresh tan. Loose, dark clothing is your best friend!
Quick Dry Hacks
Speed up the drying process with handheld fans or finishing powders for a more comfortable experience post-tan.
What to Do After Your Spray Tan
The First Rinse
Wait at least 8 hours before rinsing off, unless otherwise instructed. Use lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing or using harsh soaps. Your tan is still developing during this stage, and improper rinsing could disrupt the process.
Moisture Lock
Seal that color! After your first rinse, apply a light body oil followed by a tan-friendly lotion. This dual-layer hydration technique locks in moisture and extends your tan.
Shower Routine That Won’t Strip Color
Switch to sulfate-free and gentle cleansers to avoid stripping away your tan. Use lukewarm water and your hands, not loofahs, to cleanse your skin.
Daily Ritual
Commit to moisturizing at least twice a day. Tans fade more slowly on well-hydrated skin.
Laundry Detergents That Don’t Fade Tans
Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to wash your clothing, as harsh chemical additives can contribute to faster fading.
Skin Actives to Avoid
For seven days post-tan, skip products containing AHA, BHA, or Vitamin C to prevent unwanted lightening or patchy discoloration.
Extra Tips to Stretch Your Glow to 10+ Days
Using Tan Extenders
Invest in tan-extending lotions to boost DHA levels and maintain your glow. Look for products specifically designed to complement spray tans.
The Fabric Factor
Stick to loose clothing in soft, natural fabrics like cotton. Tight, synthetic materials can cause friction and premature fading.
Fitness & Tanning
To minimize sweat-related fading, use anti-chafing creams and bring a soft towel to gently pat your skin dry during workouts.
How Sleep Position Affects Evenness
Sleeping on your back can help avoid patchiness. Add a silk or satin sheet as they’re less likely to absorb moisture from your skin.
Spray Tan Touch-Up Kits
For small faded patches, you can use spray tan touch-up kits or self-tanning drops to refresh your look.
DIY Natural Tan Boosters
Looking for a DIY trick? Try a coffee spray or a diluted beet juice blend to naturally enhance your skin tone.
Expert Myths & Mistakes to Avoid
“All Moisturizers Are Fine”
Not all moisturizers are spray tan-friendly. Avoid those with mineral oil, as it breaks down DHA.
“Just One Rinse Is Enough”
Your tan continues developing for 24 hours post-rinse. Stick to your aftercare rituals to prolong its life.
“Dark = Long-Lasting”
Going drastically darker than your natural skin tone doesn’t guarantee a longer-lasting tan. Stick to shades suited to your undertone.
“You Can’t Go Out After Tanning”
Actually, you can! Just stick to loose, dark clothing and avoid sweating during the initial development period.
Conclusion
If you follow the science properly, prepare your skin adequately, get a professional spray tan, and take proper care of it, as well as don’t make mistakes in the process, your tan will come out perfect and long-lasting. With these tips, you can confidently rock your glow well beyond the first few days.
Got questions or looking for product recommendations? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or explore our guide to must-have tan extenders. With the right care, you’ll be glowing all season long!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, but wait until your tan starts fading naturally (around day 5–7). Use a gentle exfoliant.
Yes, but wear breathable clothing and gently pat sweat away.
Use self-tanning drops or touch-up kits to even out the fading areas.
1–2 days before the event is ideal to ensure your tan is fully developed and even.
