How to make your spray tan darker?

Author: Ida Welch  |  Last update: Thursday, May 15, 2025

Give the spray tan a full 24 hours to develop first. As I mentioned in the intro, 24 hours after applying self-tanner, you can also apply a buildable, gradual self-tanning lotion to deepen your tan; this also helps prolong it.

How can I darken my spray tan?

As colour will continue to develop for approximately 8 hours, the longer the tan is left on the skin prior to bathing, the darker the result will be.

How to get a super dark spray tan?

How to achieve the darkest tan possible with spray tan? Use favorite solution with mixed base. Add tan drops for color boost. Use a few extra drops for a deep tan. Ask for dark tinted Malibu double legs hydration. Tan at least once a week. Stand on a towel to prevent feet from being orange. Apply lotion on dry spots.

Will my spray tan get darker after I shower?

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.

Does layering spray tan make it darker?

**Risk of Over-Tanning**: Applying a second layer can lead to a much darker and potentially unnatural appearance. This may result in an uneven or patchy finish, especially in areas where the product tends to gather.

The Best Spray Tan Routine | Spray Tan Tips

How to make your fake tan darker?

Give the spray tan a full 24 hours to develop first. As I mentioned in the intro, 24 hours after applying self-tanner, you can also apply a buildable, gradual self-tanning lotion to deepen your tan; this also helps prolong it.

Why isn't my spray tan dark?

Your tanning solution had a low DHA content

Dihydroxyacetone, better known as DHA, is the most commonly used color chemical in tanning solutions. The darkness of a spray tan is determined by the amount of DHA the tanning mist contains, as well as other factors including the color base.

Does fake tan get darker after rinsing?

Don't worry if some color is washing off in the shower; this is just excess solution and color guide tint. You will notice a bronze tan after showering. With the express option, the color will gradually get darker after rinsing. Remember to only pat dry your skin, not rub.

What lotions to avoid after spray tan?

You must avoid the following ingredients when using a moisturizer: Mineral Oil, Petroleum, Paraffins, Paraffinum Liquidum, Ceresine. Curel lotions will fade a tan faster, on some people. Avoid lotions with a high alcohol content such as CeraVe.

How to prolong fake tan?

How to make fake tan last longer
  1. Exfoliate and moisturise before applying fake tan. How well you prep the skin before applying your fake tan can make or break your glow. ...
  2. Avoid bathing in hot water. ...
  3. Moisturise daily. ...
  4. Exfoliate every 3 days. ...
  5. Always remove tan before reapplying.

Why won't my legs tan but my arms do?

Compared to the rest of the body, skin on the legs does not produce the same amount of melanin, which results in legs getting less tan. Skin on the legs is thicker and harder and the UV light from the sun or sunbeds cannot easily penetrate it.

How to get a deep fake tan?

10 fake tan tips for beginners
  1. Exfoliate 24 hours before. ...
  2. Remove hair 24 hours before. ...
  3. Avoid deodorants and perfume. ...
  4. Choose the right tan for you. ...
  5. Moisturize just before tanning. ...
  6. Always Use A Tanning Mitt. ...
  7. Allow Your Tan To Dry Before Dressing. ...
  8. Wash Off Your Tan In Cool Water.

How do you maximize a spray tan?

These important after-tan tips can help your tan last longer and look better:
  1. Wait to shower for at least 4-8 hours after your spray tan, but no more than 24 hours after.
  2. This includes staying away from all moisture, including working out, cleaning, lotions, and liquid foundation.

How to deepen a tan?

6 Top Tanning Tips for a Darker and Long-lasting Tan
  1. Exfoliate your Skin prior to Tanning. ...
  2. Keep your Skin Hydrated and Moisturised. ...
  3. Apply a sunbed cream or tanning accelerator prior tanning.
  4. Remove any kind of makeup and other cosmetic products. ...
  5. Choose foods that accelerate tanning.

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 do you make a spray tan look natural?

How To Prepare for a Spray Tan the Right Way
  1. Exfoliate and shave 24 hours before tanning. ...
  2. Moisturize ahead of time. ...
  3. Paint your nails in advance. ...
  4. Watch what you wear. ...
  5. Skip makeup. ...
  6. Skip the scented skincare. ...
  7. Listen to the pros. ...
  8. Keep your skin tone and shade in mind.

Does spray tan lighten after shower?

To give the DHA enough time to fully set, it is recommended you wait a minimum of six hours after your spray tan. If you wait 24 hours you will see the optimal results. Showering sooner may diminish the intensity of the tan.

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!

How many hours after a spray tan can you moisturize?

Only rinse until you see the water is clear, then stop (this should only take a few minutes) - and pat dry. DO NOT MOISTURIZE UNTIL THE TAN HAS TOTALLY DEVELOPED. We recommend you wait at least 12 hours after receiving your tan, before moisturizing to ensure it has fully developed.

Does spray tan go darker overnight?

Your colour will continue to develop and darken for a few hours (and a spray tan takes up to 24 hours to develop fully).

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.

How long does it take for spray tan to darken?

Because your skin still requires the full 8-12 hours to fully darken from the reaction, rinsing off will give the appearance of rinsing away the tan as the bronzers (the temporary color) go down the drain, but don't worry: the color will be back!

How do you get the darkest spray tan?

If you leave the spray tan on for longer than 2 hours before showering it will simply develop further and achieve a deeper, darker tan.

Does layering self-tanner make it darker?

**Risk of Over-Tanning**: Applying a second layer can lead to a much darker and potentially unnatural appearance. This may result in an uneven or patchy finish, especially in areas where the product tends to gather.

Can you spray tan over an existing spray tan?

Removing an old spray tan is an essential step to ensure your new tan looks even and natural. Spraying over leftover tan can lead to patchy, uneven results—something nobody wants!

Previous article
How many days do you need to fast to cleanse your body?
Next article
Can dry, damaged skin be repaired?