Does a spray tan look bad the first day?

Author: Morgan Botsford  |  Last update: Saturday, January 3, 2026

A spray tan on the first day typically looks fantastic! Many individuals may have concerns regarding the immediate outcome of their initial spray tan application, fearing that they may appear excessively dark or unnatural.

Does spray tan look better the next day?

Yes. Getting a spray tan 1-2 days before a photoshoot will enhance your skin color, smooth your complexion and make your eyes and teeth sparkle.

Do spray tans look bad at first?

Yes that's normal. You look ridiculous right after the spray tan and it gets even darker like an hour later. You're supposed to let it set for a few hours before showering. Once you shower, you come out looking a normal color that's more even.

How long does it take for a spray tan to look normal?

Because your skin is constantly creating new skin cells on the epidermis level, any skin treatment will fade over time. Spray tans generally last for 7-10 days, depending on the coverage you requested; if you wanted a lighter color, your tan could fade more quickly.

Does a spray tan look patchy at first?

Spray tan looking blotchy before your first shower is actually quite normal and nothing to worry about. The blotchiness you see is often the bronzer that spray tan solutions contain. This bronzer is designed to give you an instant tan and help the technician see where they have applied the product.

How To Tan Without Getting Burnt [LIGHT HACK]

What day does a spray tan look best?

If you get a spray tan four or more days before your event, your tan will start to fade, the colour won't be as dark and won't pop against your outfit like a fresh tan would. Try to aim to book your spray tan two to three days before your event and your tan will be the perfect colour.

Do Spray tans get darker after a shower?

Don't fret! Your colour will continue to develop and darken for a few hours (and a spray tan takes up to 24 hours to develop fully). That brown water disappearing down the drain? It wasn't your tan washing away, it was simply the cosmetic bronzer tanning formulators use to help guide you when applying your tan.

How soon can I pee after a spray tan?

Never pee in the shower after your initial rinse.

After giving your spray tan several hours (or overnight) to develop, the initial water rinse is crucial. During this time, you'll see the brown color being rinsed off and what will remain on the skin is the faux tan.

Can I sit on my couch after a spray tan?

Can You Sit After Spray Tanning? Yes! You just want to be sure there's a piece of clothing between you and any sticky surfaces - including your skin. That's why we recommend wearing long pants and a long shirt until your first shower.

Do you spray tan naked?

No, you don't have to be naked when you spray tan. While some people prefer to be nude to avoid tan lines, you have the option to wear whatever is most comfortable for you—like a swimsuit or underwear. During your tan, bronzer could transfer to your clothing but don't worry!

Do spray tans ever look natural?

Fact: This is a common misconception that stems from early formulations of spray tans. Modern spray tanning solutions have come a long way, and many (including ours) use natural ingredients such as DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to create a beautiful, natural-looking tan.

Do and don'ts of spray tan?

Continue to avoid makeup, perfume, deodorant, soaps, and lotions during the development period. Do not wear tight clothing or bras after a session. Follow your technician's advice on when to shower based on the solution used. Avoid sweating excessively for the first 24 hours.

Do spray tans develop overnight?

Please note: the tan will continue to develop even after the shower, so do not be alarmed if you're not as tanned as you expect to be. The tan will continue to develop over the next 12-24 hours.

Can I shave 2 hours before spray tan?

Avoid shaving immediately before your spray tan session. Ideally, shave 24 hours prior to allow your skin to recover and avoid any potential irritation. Exfoliate gently: If you're shaving before tanning, gently exfoliate your skin using a mild scrub or exfoliating glove.

How do you sleep with a new spray tan?

Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides: If possible, try to sleep on your back to minimize the amount of contact your tan has with the sheets. This can help prevent smudging and ensure your tan stays intact.

When can I wear deodorant after spray tan?

It's quite normal after a spray tan to feel a bit sticky and sweaty. The temptation to reach for your deodorant is immense. However, we recommend avoiding deodorant for at least 12 hours after a spray tan as it can cause unsightly streaks.

What will mess up a spray tan?

Loofahs, washcloths, brushes, and body washes with microbeads are all going to hasten the tan's departure. Your first shower after your spray tan will likely result in a puddle of colored water around your drain, but this is normal. As you leave the shower, make sure to pat yourself dry with the towel, don't rub.

How long does a spray tan last if you shower every day?

A good quality spray tan will last up to a week, though it does vary according to your skin regime and the depth of the spray tan you opt for. A light bronze can fade in around 5 days, while a darker shade will stay put for a good week.

Will leggings rub off spray tan?

Tight-fitting clothing and shoes such as boots, socks or tights might rub off some of the spray tan and cause uneven results—it's best to be safe and avoid these!

Does shaving ruin self tanner?

You can shave after tanning without removing all your newfound colour. Just make sure you wait at least 8 hours, so your tan has had time to develop. Then shave with gentle pressure, using a brand-new razor and an oil-free wash or shaving foam that won't break down your faux glow.

Can I put a bra on after a spray tan?

If possible, do not wear a bra until you have rinsed the cosmetic bronzer off. Please know that if you exercise and sweat heavily your tan can fade faster, especially if your clothing is tight. The same applies to sweating feet inside shoes.

Can you get spray tan on your period?

If you are on or around the time of your period, this may cause your spray tan to develop lighter than normal - as the spray tan reacts with the pH in your skin and your pH balance is off during this time. If you get sprayed weekly, you are more likely to notice a difference.

What is the best fake tan?

Best fake tan formulas 2025 at a glance:
  • Best overall: Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam.
  • Best colour-correcting mousse: Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam.
  • Best for beginners: Tan-Luxe x Paris Hilton The Future Airbrush 360 Self-Tan Mist.
  • Best for natural results: St.

Does a tan show immediately?

A new Tel Aviv University study uncovers the science behind the mystery of why the body's tanning process does not occur immediately after sun exposure, but only after a few hours or even days.

What body wash is best for spray tan?

Clear body wash or soaps like DIAL, IVORY, LEVER 2000, IRISH SPRING or ZEST are recommended. LOTIONS Avoid any oils or lotions that use mineral oil (petroleum), baby oil, coconut oil, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (which is found in most body washes).

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