4 Practical Ways to Prolong Spray Tan Glow

Spray tanning guarantees a healthy glow on your skin. A spray tan promises a natural-looking glow. Professional spas use tan formulations that make you feel and look better. However, most first-time clients often worry their spray tan will not last as long as they wish.



The last thing you want after getting a tan is to watch its gorgeous bronze glow fade prematurely. While factors such as spray tan formula, skin health, and complexion determine how long a tan lasts, preparation and maintenance are equally crucial. Here are practical ways to stretch your spray tan for a longer-lasting glow.

1.      Use Oil-Free Moisturizers

According to licensed cosmetologists, supple and well-hydrated skin is key to a fresh and long-lasting tan. You can achieve such skin by using the right moisturizers. Unfortunately, some newbies get it wrong and use oil-based moisturizers. It would be best to avoid any oil-based moisturizer before you get a tan because oils adversely affect spray tan formulas.

Applying an oil-based moisturizer creates a barrier that prevents even absorption of tanning elements by the skin. Using the same product after your tan also accelerates the fading process because oils break down the pigments in the tan.

Nevertheless, avoiding oil-based moisturizers does not mean you should go to a spray tan session with dry skin. Instead, you can use oil-free moisturizers to keep your skin soft and hydrated for a longer-lasting tan.

2.      Wax Rather Than Shave

When you spray tan to hairy skin, the formula will stick to your hair follicles, leaving behind tiny and unsightly spots. Thus, cosmetologists advise clients that smooth skin gives better spray tanning results. However, hair removal is critical for optimal tanning results, and technique matters.

Shaving the hair on your skin before spray tanning is counter-productive because the hair will grow back within a few days, forcing you to shave again. Traditional shaving creams are alcohol-based, which are not only harsh on your skin but detrimental to the longevity of your spray tan.

Rather than shave, you should consider waxing if your objective is to lengthen your spray tan's lifespan. Unlike shaving, waxing removes the entire hair from the follicle, which slows down regrowth. Therefore, you do not have to worry about dulling your skin's glow by removing more hair with the tan on.

3.      Wear Loose Clothing 

One of the key perks of spray tanning is to show off the beautiful bronze glow on your skin. The look allows people to prance around in their trove of tank tops and other lose fitting clothes. However, it is not surprising that most tanning first-timers wear tight attire on their spray-tanned skin.

Tight-fitting clothing accelerates fading of a freshly applied tan formula. As you perform various activities in your tight clothes, the fibers gradually rub off the formula on your skin. Loose-fitting clothing, such as maxi or t-shirt dresses, tank tops, and soft long-sleeved t-shirts, will ensure your spray tan lasts longer.

4.      Use a Tan Extender 

Spray tans eventually fade, regardless of how well you prepare or maintain your skin. Therefore, you should be wary of claims about tans lasting several months with minimal care. However, you can still prolong your tan's glow by minimizing the fade as much as possible. The best approach is to use a tan extender.

Tan extenders are enhancers infused with small amounts of DHA and moisturizer. Applying a tan extending solution with DHA adds color back to a fading tan, keeping it looking fresh for a few more days or weeks. Most importantly, ask your cosmetologist to recommend a tan extender compatible with your complexion and skin type for the best results.

A professionally done spray tan will not last as long as it should without proper preparation and maintenance. Our beauty therapists are always available to help clients maintain their tan. Contact us for more information on preserving your gorgeous glow for longer.