How long should you leave gradual tan on?

Author: Dylan Stoltenberg Sr.  |  Last update: Monday, January 12, 2026

Gradual formulations can be applied every day like your daily moisturizer to maintain hydration and glow. How long does it take to develop/do they need to be rinsed off? Our gradual tanners develop over 4-6 hours.

How long does it take for a gradual tan to develop?

The initial development of your gradual tan will take place over the first 2–4 hours after application, so you should avoid showering during this initial period to allow your tan to develop properly. After this, showering every day should not make your tan slower to develop.

Can you use too much gradual tan?

Applying too much product too quickly can result in streaking, patchiness, or an unnatural orange colour. Instead, stick to one application per day and build up your tan gradually over time.

Should you wash off gradual tan?

Apply gradual tan daily until you achieve your desired skin tone. Then reapply every few days, or more often if necessary, to maintain your tan. Avoid showering for a few hours following the application to allow the product to bind well on the skin - you can do this right before going to bed and shower in the morning.

Does gradual tan need to be scrubbed off?

Exfoliate your skin every few days after application with a light exfoliating bodywash, focusing on areas that tend to fade quickest: underarms, neck, and knees. Exfoliation will fade your tan slightly, but this step is essential to preventing colour build-up and removing dead skin cells.

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How long can you leave gradual tan on for?

After 4-8 hours, your gradual tan will be fully developed into a natural, sunkissed glow. To achieve a deeper bronzed look, reapply St. Tropez gradual tan daily to build your tan.

Does shaving ruin gradual tan?

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 gradual tan stain bed sheets?

If you fake tan before bed and shower in the morning, you probably wake to orange-tinged sheets, unless you sleep on a large, dark coloured towel. Applying the tan earlier in the day will give the tan time to absorb and prevent it discolouring your linen.

Is gradual tan better than fake tan?

You should choose a gradual self tanner if you prefer a more natural, buildable tan and want to control the intensity of your color over time. Gradual tanners are perfect for people who enjoy daily skincare routines and want a more subtle glow that doesn't appear all at once.

How long does gradual tan take to develop a tanologist?

Gradual formulations can be applied every day like your daily moisturiser to maintain hydration and glow. How long does it take to develop/do they need to be rinsed off? Our gradual tanners develop over 4-6 hours.

Does gradual tan age you?

But Wong says it's unlikely that any skin aging effect would be pronounced. "The human studies so far have found that DHA mostly reacts in the top layers of the skin, which are dead. In skin aging, the concern is excessive free radicals forming deeper in the dermal layers of skin where collagen and elastin are."

What removes gradual tan?

Body Oils. Oils are great to break down the tan. Run a hot bath with some body or bath oil in it and soak in for as long as possible. If you're a shower person, apply oil all over your body, let it sink into your skin completely and take a hot steamy shower to wash it off.

How can I make my gradual tan work faster?

For the ultimate glow, use a Body Exfoliator 24 hours before applying self tanner to create the perfect smooth base for your tan. Then, 2 to 3 hours before tanning, treat your skin to a Tan Enhancing Body Moisturiser, paying particular attention to dry areas, such as knees, elbows and hands.

Does gradual tan go patchy?

While gradual tan is more likely to apply and fade evenly, it is still possible for your gradual tan to go patchy. It'll all depend on the quality of the gradual tan you're applying, how much you've prepared your skin before applying gradual tan, and how well you care for your new glow.

Should you use a mitt for gradual tan?

Step 2: Reach for your gradual tan

Apply your chosen gradual tanning moisturiser with your hand or a mitt, smoothing carefully from the legs upwards. We recommend using circular motions to ensure all areas are evenly covered.

Can I apply gradual tan twice in one day?

Go for it! But be warned warriors, just like alcohol, pacing it is always the best way to go. The key thing with gradual tan is that it takes time to develop so if you back it up with a second coat before you've seen the end results it might just hinder the natural effect you're going for.

What is the number 1 rated 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.

Do you put gradual tan on your face?

Some gradual tanners can be used on both the face and body, so check the product label. However, most body tanners need to be used with a mitt to keep the finish patch- and streak-free, which may be too harsh for your delicate facial skin.

How long does Palmer's gradual tan take to develop?

With just a touch of self tanner, Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze creates a delicate, sun-kissed, summer glow all year long. Gradually builds a subtle tan within a few days, while deeply moisturising your skin.

What self-tanner do dermatologists recommend?

Dermatologists' Favorite Self-Tanners and How to Apply Them at...
  • Revision Intellishade SPF 45.
  • Elta MD UV Daily Broad Spectrum SPF 40.
  • Eryfotona Ageless Actinica Mineral SPF 50+
  • St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse.
  • Tan Towel Body Tan Towlettes.
  • Jergens Natural Glow Three Days to Glow Moisturizer.

What to wear when sleeping in fake tan?

Throw on a pair of loose pajama bottoms and a t-shirt. Set a towel over your pillow. Hop in to bed.

Does fake tan come off in the pool?

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.

Can I shower with gradual tan?

Helpful Tips for Longer Lasting Gradual Tans

Shower wisely: Avoid harsh soaps or hot water that exfoliates the skin and withering the tan quicker. Pat dry post-shower: Ensure to pat yourself dry rather than rubbing, as this can scrub off the tanned skin.

Can I tan with hairy legs?

Spray tanning with hairy legs is absolutely your personal choice. However, bear in mind, excessive hair can hinder an even tan. It's recommended to remove unwanted body hair before the session for better results.

Why does gradual tan go streaky?

It can be tempting to forego exfoliating or cleansing your skin properly before tanning, but then you risk a streaky tan! As our skin cells all turn-over and shed at different times, it's vital that you start with a fresh canvas so that your tan is applied evening and won't go streaky or patchy.

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