You’re planning to get a spray tan. Maybe for a vacation, an event, or just to feel a little more confident in your skin. But there’s one thing you’re probably wondering: how long does a professional spray tan last?
Fair question. The answer depends on a few things, like how you prep and what you do after the appointment. In this post, we’re breaking it all down: how long you can expect your tan to last, what can make it fade faster, and what you can do to keep it looking fresh as long as possible.
How Long Does a Professional Spray Tan Last?
A professional, organic spray tan will typically last 4 to 7 days. So it’s long enough to get you through a weekend getaway, a special event, or just a solid stretch of looking sun-kissed without the sun.
Now, there are chemical-heavy formulas out there that can last up to two weeks. But let’s be real: they’re not worth it. Those harsh ingredients can dry out your skin, clog your pores, and leave behind that dreaded orange tone everyone tries to avoid.
Natural spray tans, on the other hand, are gentler on your skin and give you a much more realistic-looking glow.
If you’re after a natural spray tan in Portland or Vancouver, come see us at SunsUp Tan & Wellness Spa. Right now, new clients get an amazing deal:
- $20 for an All-Natural Spray + 1 Free VIP Tan (Retail value: $65).
It’s the perfect way to try us out and see the difference for yourself.
How Does a Spray Tan Work
First, you step into an automated booth that walks you through the whole thing. Clear voice instructions guide you through a few easy poses to make sure every angle gets even coverage.
Then comes the mist. A fine tanning solution is sprayed over your body. The key ingredient in that solution? DHA, short for dihydroxyacetone. It’s a colorless, plant-derived compound that reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin. That reaction produces a natural-looking bronze tone.
The best part? DHA only works on the outermost layer of your skin, so there’s no UV exposure, and no need to bake in the sun. It’s a fast way to glow.
How to Make a Spray Tan Last Longer?
If you’re wondering how long a professional spray tan lasts, you should know that it’s all about what you do before and after your appointment. With the right prep and care, you can stretch those 4-7 days into a full, flawless week. Here is what you should do:
Before a Spray Tan
Spray tan results and how long they will last depend heavily on how well your skin is prepped.
The two non-negotiables?
Exfoliate and shave or wax. You want a clean, smooth canvas so the tanning solution applies evenly and doesn’t flake off too soon.
For a full breakdown on how to prep like a pro, check out our detailed blog post on how to prepare for a spray tan. It covers everything you need to know to get the best possible results.
When not done by a professional, spray tan can turn patchy and/or orange. Thankfully, it’s easy to learn how to remove spray tan.
After a Spray Tan
Once you’re bronzed up, how you treat your skin matters just as much as the spray itself. Here’s what to do:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid rubbing the tan off before it sets. Shorts or a loose dress work great, but if it’s cold out, go for a baggy hoodie and sweats.
- Skip workouts and swimming for the first 24 hours. Your tan needs time to develop, and sweat or water will mess with that process.
- Shower with lukewarm water, not hot, and wait at least 6-8 hours before your first rinse.
- Don’t rub your skin with a towel after showering. Instead, pat dry.
- Moisturize your skin daily. We recommend TriLuxe Lotion or the organic Malie, both keep your skin hydrated without breaking down your tan.
- Avoid chlorine, hot tubs, and long soaks in the bath. Water exposure is one of the fastest ways to fade your tan.
How Long After a Spray Tan Can You Shower?
Wait at least 6 to 24 hours after your spray tan before hopping in the shower. This gives the tanning solution enough time to do its thing, developing fully and giving you that golden glow.
When you shower, don’t panic if you see color rinsing off. That’s not your tan disappearing, it’s just the excess solution and bronzer washing away. Your real tan has already started to set in and will continue to deepen over the next several hours.
Stick to lukewarm water, skip the soap for that first rinse, and don’t scrub. Just a quick rinse and a gentle pat dry with your towel.
Can You Swim with a Spray Tan?
Yes, you can swim with a spray tan, but timing matters. Don’t jump in the pool or ocean the same day you get sprayed. Your tan needs time to fully develop, so wait at least 24 hours before swimming.
Planning a spray tan before vacation? Just know that too much time in the water, especially pools with chlorine, can cause your tan to fade faster.
Quick dips and short swims? Totally fine. Just rinse off afterward and keep your skin moisturized to help your tan last longer.
How Can I Remove Spray Tan?
Whether your tan is fading unevenly or you’re just ready to start fresh, removing a spray tan is pretty simple. The key is to gently speed up the skin’s natural shedding process.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Take a longer shower or soak in a warm bath to help soften the top layer of your skin.
- Use warmer water (not scalding) to open up your pores.
- Gently exfoliate to lift away the remaining color.
For best results, we recommend using our Bamboo Exfoliant. It doesn’t just help remove leftover tan, it also soothes irritation, cleanses deeply, and fights acne-causing bacteria, leaving your skin smooth, refreshed, and ready for your next glow-up.
How Much Does a Spray Tan Cost at SunsUp Tan & Wellness Spa?
At SunsUp Tan & Wellness Spa, we keep pricing simple and the perks stacked. Our membership package is just $75/month, and it gives you unlimited access to spray tanning, no limits, no extra charges. And for just $10 more, you can get a package that also includes unlimited access to UV tanning in our VIP beds. If you’re someone who likes to stay glowing year-round, this is hands-down the best value.
Never been to SunsUp before?
Now’s the perfect time to give us a try. Take advantage of our new client special:
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