Understanding Self-Tanner Durability Before we dive into tips on how to extend your sunless tan, you're probably wondering, “Just how long does a fake tan last?” On average, your skin retains self tanner for 5-7 days, but this period of longevity can vary based on many factors.
5-7 days is the average amount of time a fake tan will last on your skin. By now we all know (if your a regular self tanning girly like myself) it's ALL about the PREP.
You can expect your spray tan to last 7-10 days. Making sure your skin is well prepped prior to your spray tan will help it last longer, exfoliating and moisturising is key! After your tan, follow the Wash & Wear Guide to achieve your best colour. When you wash your tan off, shower in warm water and lightly pat dry.
The fake tan (once developed on your skin) normally cannot simply be washed off as it has actually developed on your skin and will fade naturally over several days as your skin naturally sheds itself.
So yes, a fake tan really can be natural.
While there is undoubtedly a cultural element attached to the perception of darker looking skin as attractive or not, today most western cultures seem to associate tanning with beauty and happiness. The light reflectivity of skin significantly influences its aesthetic appearance.
Although the chlorine found in swimming pools can lead to a faster 'fade-off' you can still enjoy a swim and protect your tan. The key is to take quick dips to reduce the time your tan is in contact with the water and to gently pat yourself dry once you've come out of the pool to avoid rubbing off any colour.
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].
Like most beauty services, these tend to be more expensive in big cities and metropolitan areas compared to suburban areas. For example, Bennett says that at her salon (which has locations in Scottsdale, Arizona and Los Angeles, California), spray tans start at $55 in Arizona and $110 in Los Angeles.
While a tan itself doesn't last years, the skin damage caused by UV radiation can have long-lasting effects. Repeated sun exposure can lead to premature aging, uneven pigmentation, and a higher risk of skin cancer.
But with these regular appointments, many people wonder “how often should I spray tan?” The answer depends, but for most people, having a spray tan appointment every 9-12 days is the perfect cadence to maintain your glow and get the most out of each tan.
when there's no such thing as too much of a good tan, you can now b. tan forever + ever (well up to 11 days anyways). while nothing may last forever, we've come pretty close with this ultra long lasting tan that lasts… and lasts… and lasts!
We would recommend if sleeping in fake tan that you invest in tanning sheets (be it a fancy 'fake tan' specific sheets, old sheets you're not fussed about or a darker shade that doesn't show the tell-tale fake tan remnants so easily) and make sure you wear loose, comfy and fake tan friendly sleepwear to bed.
If you showered after just a few hours, you might notice your skin is not as tanned as you'd expected. 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).
The quickest steps are the basic (olive, coconut or baby) oil, soak in the tub, then use an exfoliating body mitt and body scrub or the specialist products designed to remove fake tan efficiently.
Apply Vaseline on your brows and hairline
Applying a thin layer of Vaseline to these areas acts as a protective barrier, preventing the fake tan from clinging to your eyebrows or staining your hairline – especially if you're blonde.
Use Dish Soap
Dish soap can not only cut through grime and grease but can also get rid of your spray tan.
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.
You've self tanned your body and achieved that beachy golden glow, but you've forgotten one thing - your face! Leaving out your face while self tanning is like leaving the house without your shoes; it doesn't look right and people are going to notice.
The Two-Day Rule: When it comes to tanning before an event, it is generally recommended to have a spray tan or apply your own tan two days prior to the occasion. The reason behind this is that all tans take approximately 24 hours to fully develop, even after rinsing off the initial bronzer.
As sweat is acidic, it can cause self tan to break down when left to sit on the skin.
After extensive testing, we determined the highest rated self-tanner to be the St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse. It's an airy mousse that's easy to apply and blend and leaves you with a natural-looking glow. You can also customize the depth of color based on how long you leave it on your skin.
Keeping your skin hydrated and healthy is what ensures longevity for self-tanners. The sun dries out your skin, causing damage that disrupts your tan. So, make sure you keep applying sunscreen to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and your glow going strong. A lasting sunless tan starts with the best products.