How long can I leave my self tanner on?

Author: Ms. Eulah Kulas IV  |  Last update: Friday, October 24, 2025

Self Tan should ideally be left to develop between 4 to 8hrs (excluding Express) before showering off the tinted guide colour to reveal your natural-looking tan.

Is it bad to leave self-tanner on too long?

"It's always best to follow the instructions for the specific product you're using," Wong says. "However, most self-tanners are leave-on products, so there aren't really specific safety risks associated with leaving DHA—or other self-tanner active ingredients such as erythrulose—on your skin for longer."

Is it okay to leave fake tan on overnight?

Optimal Time to Shower After a Fake Tan

Timing your first rinse is key to achieving a flawless, streak-free glow. Wait 4-8 hours before showering to let your tan fully develop, but avoid leaving it on for more than 24 hours.

Can you leave self-tanner on for 16 hours?

You can leave it on your skin for 1 - 8 hours, depending on how dark you like your tan. The longer you leave it on the darker you get. That's the great part, you can control your colour.

How long should I leave fake tan on before showering?

Once applied, you can wash the tan off after just 1 hour, but for a deeper long-lasting tan leave on your skin for up 8 hours. It really is personal choice. You might have to test it out a few times to work out what suits you the best! For a deeper glow, we recommend letting your tan develop for 6-8 hours.

How to Apply Self Tanner at Home Like a Pro | No Runs, Streaks, or Orange!

Does fake tan get darker the longer you leave it on?

what happens if i forget to shower off the tan? the longer you keep the tan on, the darker it will get. however, some skin types may experience discoloration (looking a bit orange or yellow) if left on too long past around 8 hours. you may also get a streaky tan as you're more likely to rub or wash off some sections.

Can I sleep with a self-tanner on?

You can leave your self tan on for as long as you like, with each product having a different recommended timeframe. Some people prefer to sleep with it overnight to get a deeper glow.

What not to do after fake tanning?

AFTER THE TAN

Shower lightly in cold – lukewarm water for 45 seconds ONLY after your desired development time. Use plain water, don't use shower gels, scrubs, shampoos or loofah during the first 24 hours after your treatment. Pat your skin dry. Do not rub or scrub your skin.

How long should I wait to put clothes on after self-tanning?

After applying your self-tanner, you'll need to give the product time to dry and settle on your skin. Do not get dressed right away, wrap yourself in a towel, or lie down. Wait about 10 to 15 minutes before putting clothes on—and even then, wear loose-fitting attire.

Can I shave after self-tanning?

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.

Does showering after tanning in the sun affect your tan?

After tanning, you will produce a little bit of sweat, but that's it. There is no reason to shower right away because water does not affect the tan. This is another myth that has been around for ages. The truth is, showering right after getting a tan will not cause staining of your skin.

Is it better to fake tan at night or morning?

Applying at night gives your self-tanner time to develop a natural tan look. Things like showering, rain, or tight clothes can mess up your tan when it's trying to settle. And some tanning products will also stain! As the self-tanner process can take up to eight hours, applying right before bed is super convenient.

Should you moisturize after fake tanning?

Once you have washed off your fake tan moisturise your skin daily to increase the longevity of your tan. Dry, dehydrated skin will cause your dead skin cells to shed quicker, taking the fake tan you worked so hard for with it. Use an oil-free moisturiser as oil can break down the product [2].

What body wash is best for fake tan?

Dhesthetics has 2 recommended body washes to use in the shower to help preserve your tan. Aveevo Daily Moisturizing body wash or Cetaphil Daily Nourishing body wash. All of these body washes have great ingredients in them that will help to preserve not only your tan, but keep your skin healthy.

How many times a week should you apply self-tanner?

Many products will last anywhere from 7 to 10 days, but it will be quite clear that your tan is fading by the last day. To prevent your tan from fading or becoming obvious, it's best to apply the tanner at least once a week and exfoliate evenly across your body.

Can I shower 3 hours after self tanning?

Self Tan should ideally be left to develop between 4 to 8hrs (excluding Express) before showering off the tinted guide color to reveal your natural-looking tan.

Why does fake tan not stick to my legs?

Is there any residue left on your calves from products like moisturiser, shaving foam or body oil? All these cosmetic products act as a barrier to fake tan and can prevent the skin from 'grabbing' colour.

Does fake tan go on bed sheets?

Getting a fake tan is a popular way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing the skin to harmful UV rays. However, it's not uncommon for some of the product to transfer onto your bed sheets, leaving unsightly stains that ruin their appearance.

How long after applying self-tanner can I sit down?

Sitting or snuggling into your clothes right away is a major no-no. If you do, you might risk turning your fab tan into a patchy puzzle. Give your tan the royal treatment it deserves. After application, it's time to channel your inner diva and lounge in as little clothing as possible for at least an hour or two.

How to get the best self tan results?

Follow these steps:
  1. Exfoliate. Use a washcloth to exfoliate the skin prior to applying a self-tanner. ...
  2. Dry your skin. ...
  3. Apply in sections. ...
  4. Wash your hands after each section. ...
  5. Blend at your wrists and ankles. ...
  6. Dilute over your joints. ...
  7. Give your skin time to dry. ...
  8. Apply sunscreen every day.

How do you sleep after fake tan?

Use a fan or adjust the temperature in your room to ensure a comfortable sleeping environment. Sleep on dark towels: Placing dark towels on your bed where your body will come in contact with the sheets can help absorb any excess tan solution and prevent it from transferring onto your bedding.

Do you tan faster in water or laying out?

You don't necessarily tan faster in water or laying out. This is because water reflects UV rays, so you may not be getting as much exposure as you think if you're actually in the pool.

Can I sit on the toilet with self-tanner on?

Okay, I know you just want the answer, and that answer is YES! You can sit down after a spray tan or even a self tan. The only way you can mess up a fake tan after the application and before your first shower is by sweating or by getting water on yourself.

Can you tan in the sun with a self-tanner on?

The answer is yes! The self-tanner does not block UV rays, so you can still get a tan even if you're using a self-tanner. While the self-tanner will make your skin look like you've spent some time in the sun it won't actually block the UV rays from reaching your skin.

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