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.
In general, your spray tan should last around a week, usually 5-7 days.
Remove all-over tan quickly with a fake tan remover
To use, apply the remover, wait 10-15 minutes, then gently scrub with a cloth or exfoliating mitt. Rinse with warm water and moisturise.
Generally, self-tan products have a lifespan of about 6 to 12 months, after which their efficacy starts to wane. The primary reason for this decline is the breakdown of Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the active ingredient that reacts with your skin to create that beautiful bronze.
To get rid of fake tan quickly, try soaking in a warm bath with baby oil, followed by exfoliating with an exfoliating mitt.
Baking soda is a great option when you need to remove a full-body tan quickly. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with some water or coconut oil. This will form a paste. Rub the paste over the area and leave it for 5 to 10 minutes.
If your tan feels too dark the following day, try having three hot showers to help bring it down to a more natural colour.”
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.
"DHA has been shown to cause an increase in free radicals in the skin," says Chere Lucas Anthony, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Boca Raton, Fla. "This can contribute to skin aging as the free radicals break down collagen and elastin in the skin, which leads to wrinkling and skin aging."
Baby Oil
Raw oils like coconut, olive, or sunflower will work in a pinch, but be sure to pick up baby oil if you want the best results. When it's time to remove your self-tanner, simply slather your skin with the baby oil and leave it on for a few minutes. Then rinse it off in the shower using a loofah or washcloth.
Our Self Tan ranges can be washed off after just 1 hour, but for a deeper tan, we advise avoiding showering, swimming, and perspiring for 6 - 8 hours to allow your tan to develop fully on the skin. For more tanning tips and tricks, read ourGuide To Self Tanning For Beginners.
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.
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.
“Fake tanning is safer than using sun beds or sunbathing which has the risk of sunburns and premature photo ageing and risk of developing skin cancer in the future,” says Dr Zokaie.
If your tan is the exact shade you love and you want to keep the gorgeous glow, you typically only have to apply self-tanner about once a week.
Your suntan and your fake tan will therefore fade away in unison as the uppermost layer of skin cells are sloughed off over the course of a week or so. It won't be the case that your suntan will fade first followed later by your fake tan.
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.
Once skin is exposed to UV radiation, it increases the production of melanin in an attempt to protect the skin from further damage. Melanin is the same pigment that colors your hair, eyes, and skin. The increase in melanin may cause your skin tone to darken over the next 48 hours.
Although steaming your face and body is excellent for cleansing your skin, opening up your pores and removing blackheads, it can also make your tan fade a little quicker. This is because treating yourself to a steam actually encourages your older skin layers to flake away to reveal fresh, smooth skin.
Shaving Before or After Spray Tan FAQ
Spray tan may fade slightly when shaving, especially if done immediately after the session. Waiting 8-12 hours before shaving and using gentle strokes can minimise the impact on the 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.