How Long Does a Spray Tan Last? Tips to Extend Your Glow

May 14

If you’ve ever caught a glimpse of yourself post-spray tan and thought, “Wow, is this my glow-up era?” — you're not alone. At Just Peachy, we're firm believers that a flawless spray tan is a serious confidence booster. But the one question we hear all the time is: How long does a spray tan last?

Let’s break it down, babe, because the truth is: your tan’s lifespan is part magic, part maintenance. And when you know how to care for it right, you can keep that bronze glow going strong.

So, How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?

On average, a spray tan lasts about 7 to 10 days.

But that number isn't set in stone! Your personal glow game can vary depending on a few key factors:

How well you prepped your skin
How you care for your skin after your tan
Your skin’s natural exfoliation cycle
The products you use (or don't use)

If you treat your tan like the precious gem it is, you’ll be glowing longer than your weekend plans.

Why Your Spray Tan Might Fade Faster

Let’s be real: some things will ghost your glow faster than others. If you’ve ever thought your tan disappeared overnight, it could be because of:

Hot, steamy showers (save the sauna vibes for later)
Over-exfoliating or shaving
Using oil-based or harsh body products
Tight clothing rubbing off your color
Not moisturizing enough

The more you protect and nourish your skin, the longer you’ll keep that golden goddess energy.

How to Make Your Spray Tan Last Longer

You didn't invest time (and money) just to have your glow dip out early. Here's how to stretch those bronzed days into bronzed weeks:

1. Start With a Perfect Prep. Your tan’s lifespan starts before you even step into the booth.

Exfoliate with a non-oil-based scrub 24 hours before.
Shave at least 24 hours prior to your appointment.
Show up with clean, product-free skin (no lotion, deodorant, or makeup).

2. Treat Your Skin Like a Queen Post-Tan. After your first rinse:

Gently pat your skin dry—no rubbing!
Moisturize morning and night using a tan-safe lotion like our Luxe Lotion.
Avoid super hot showers and skip the long bubble baths for a few days.

3. Use Tan-Friendly Products. Not all body washes are your friend after a spray tan. Swap your usual products for a DHA-friendly cleanser like our DHA-Infused Body Wash.

Avoid:

Oil-based lotions
Harsh exfoliants
Bar soaps (they’re often too alkaline and strip your color)

4. Extend the Glow With a Tan Extender. Once you hit day 3 or 4, your tan might start naturally fading.

Fight back with a tan extender! Our Vacay Mode Tan Extenders (Light or Dark) are infused with just the right amount of DHA to gradually deepen your color while keeping it fresh and flawless.

5. Dress for Success. Post-tan fashion matters.

Wear loose, dark clothing after your appointment.
Sleep in something baggy and comfy.
Avoid tight straps, leggings, or anything that could rub and mess with your development.

Glow Tip: Think cozy chic — your tan (and your future self) will thank you.

Factors That Can Affect Tan Longevity

Because everyone’s skin and lifestyle is a little different, keep these in mind too:

Skin type: Drier skin can shed faster; hydration is key!
Activity level: Heavy sweating (like hot yoga or intense workouts) can fade your tan quicker.
Climate: Traveling to dry, hot places? Pack extra moisturizer, babe.

How long does a spray tan last? With the right prep and care, you can hit the 10-day mark easily—sometimes even longer.