Spray tans are the perfect way to get that healthy glow while shying away from harmful UV rays (aging your skin prematurely is definitely not in). At Be Bronze Studio, we believe that a beautiful tan starts with healthy skin and our tans are formulated to not just make you look better but feel better too. Our spray tans actually improve your skin and leave you with a gorgeous glow for longer. So how long does a spray tan last?

The answer to that depends on a few factors, including your skin health, complexion, and pre- and post-spray tan care. In this blog, we'll answer the question "how long does a spray tan last?," and also share some important spray tan tips to get the most out of your tan.

How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?

A spray tan can last up to 10 days, but it also depends on your unique skin. A spray tan on lighter skin tones might last for about 5 days, medium shades can last between 7-8 days, and darker shades can last up to 10 days. To be safe, we say that your spray tan will last anywhere between 5-7 days, depending on your spray tan care routine.

Tips to Make Your Spray Tan Last Longer

Now that we better understand how long a spray tan lasts, we want to make sure you get the most out of all your tans. Following these tips help your tan last longer and protect your skin from harmful oils.

What to do Before a Spray Tan

You might think that getting your spray tan starts when you walk into the studio, but preparing for a tan starts well before that. Your pre-spray tan care is one of the most important factors in affecting how long a spray tan lasts. Here are some important tips on how to prepare for a spray tan:

Spray Tan Precare Instructions

  1. If you are getting any other services done (nails, waxing, facial, massage, etc.), do everything before you get your spray tan.

  2. Wax at least 24 hours before your appointment. Wax can stay on the skin, making it difficult for your spray tan to hold.

  3. Exfoliate in the shower at least 4 hours before your spray tan. This helps the tanning solution adhere to your skin, but it also gives your pores enough time to close to avoid discoloration.

  4. When you're exfoliating, make sure to use an exfoliator that's oil-free and made from organic ingredients. Using an oil-filled exfoliator or moisturizer before you tan can have harmful, long-term effects on your skin.

  5. Shave at least 4 hours before your appointment.

  6. When you come to your appointment, make sure you don't have any lotions or makeup on. Clean skin all the way, baby!

What to do During a Spray Tan

Okay, so you're prepped and ready for your spray tan. Now, let's get you ready for the actual spray tan. If you've never gotten a spray tan before, check out our FAQ page with a few spray tan tips to help you prepare. Your appointment window is 30 minutes, but each spray takes about 15-20 minutes. Here's what you need to know when you come in:

  1. Wear loose-fitting clothing to change into after your spray tan.

  2. If possible, don't wear a bra or undies. If you do need to wear a bra, wear a strapless or bandeau bra to avoid messing up your tan.

  3. Bring flip-flops or sandals for after your tan.

  4. No denim or yoga pants

  5. A long, black t-shirt dress is the perfect spray tanning attire.

  6. If the weather calls for rain, bring an umbrella! Raindrops can streak your spray tan.

What to do After a Spray Tan

You're glowed up and ready to go, now what? When considering how long a spray tan lasts, you should also consider your post-spray tan care routine. These important after-tan tips can help your tan last longer and look better:

Spray Tan Aftercare Instructions

  1. Wait to shower for at least 4-8 hours after your spray tan, but no more than 24 hours after.

  2. This includes staying away from all moisture, including working out, cleaning, lotions, and liquid foundation.

  3. When you do take your first shower after your spray tan, be gentle and don't scrub your body. Avoid bar soaps or soaps that strip your skin.

  4. Use only a natural body wash (no oils!) and use the palms of your hand to wash off the surface bronzer.

  5. We know how relaxing a nice, hot shower can be but after your spray tan, only use lukewarm water. Hot water can lessen the length of your tan.

  6. Pat yourself dry instead of rubbing.

  7. Moisturizing is the key to making your tan last longer. Right after you get out of the shower, lock in moisture with an oil-free moisturizer. Moisturize in the morning and evening.

  8. From day 3 on, use our Tan Extender as your primary moisturizer.

  9. To preserve your tan, avoid swimming, long showers, baths, steam rooms, and saunas.

  10. Avoid harsh chemicals such as chlorine, products containing acids, massages, fashion tape, bandages, and anything else that may strip your tan.

  11. We know it's hard, but keep your hands off your hot self. No leg crossing or other skin to skin contact.

  12. Don't be afraid to "top off" your tan with some tinted moisturizers. Just make sure that the color is the same as your Be Bronze tan. Highlighter and bronzer also help you keep that glow for longer.

  13. Don't exfoliate until you're ready to say goodbye to your current tan and hello to a new one.

Experience the Be Bronze Difference

When considering how long a spray tan lasts, it's important to consider how well you take care of your skin both before and after the tan. There are a lot of things you can do to make your tan last longer, from not exfoliating to not using oil-based moisturizers. Prepare for your tan by shaving and exfoliating at least 4-8 hours before your appointment and dress appropriately (dark, loose-fitting clothes). Help your tan stand the test of time with cooler showers, no harsh chemicals, and a top-off, like our Tan Extender. We can't wait to see you in the studio. Book an appointment today to experience the Be Bronze difference.