Spray tan is a popular way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing yourself to harmful UV radiation.
However, many people wonder if spray tan fades evenly or not. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect spray tan fading and give you tips to help your spray tan last longer and fade evenly.
Spray Tan Fading Explained
Spray tan fading is the gradual loss of color and intensity of the tan over time. It happens because the outermost layer of our skin, the epidermis, sheds dead skin cells and renews itself every 28 days. As the dead skin cells flake off, they take some of the spray tan pigment with them, causing the tan to fade.
Spray tan fading is different from natural tan fading, which happens when our skin cells produce more melanin in response to UV exposure. Natural tan fading is also affected by factors such as sun exposure, skin type, and age.
Some signs of spray tan fading include patchiness, streakiness, dullness, and unevenness. However, you can take steps to minimize these effects and make your spray tan last longer.
How Long Does Spray Tan Last?
The longevity of a spray tan depends on several factors, including the type of solution used, your skin type, and your aftercare routine. On average, a spray tan lasts 5 to 10 days. However, some people may experience fading within a few days, while others can maintain their tan for up to two weeks.
Factors that can speed up spray tan fading include:
- Exfoliating vigorously or using harsh scrubs
- Showering or bathing excessively
- Swimming or soaking in hot tubs
- Sweating heavily
- Wearing tight clothing or shoes that rub against the skin
- Shaving or waxing frequently
On the other hand, factors that can slow down spray tan fading include:
- Moisturizing daily with a hydrating lotion or oil
- Avoiding hot showers or baths
- Using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser
- Patting the skin dry instead of rubbing it with a towel
- Wearing loose clothing that allows the skin to breathe
- Touching up with a self-tanning product or gradual tanner as needed
How to Prevent Spray Tan from Fading Unevenly?
To prevent spray tan from fading unevenly, you need to prepare your skin properly before the session and take care of it afterward. Here are some tips to help you achieve an even, long-lasting spray tan:
- Shave and exfoliate your skin at least 24 hours before the session to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth canvas for the tan.
- Don’t apply any lotions, oils, or deodorants on the day of the session, as they can create a barrier between the skin and the spray tan solution and cause uneven fading.
- Wear loose, dark clothing to the session and avoid tight-fitting clothes or shoes that may rub against the skin.
- After the session, wait at least 8 to 10 hours before showering or sweating, as this can cause the tan to streak or fade unevenly.
- When you do shower, use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser and pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it with a towel.
- Moisturize your skin daily with a hydrating lotion or oil to keep it soft and supple. Avoid products that contain retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids, or other exfoliating agents, as they can cause the tan to fade faster.
- Avoid hot showers, baths, pools, saunas, and excessive sweating for at least 24 hours after the session.
- Use sunscreen when going out in the sun, as UV exposure can cause the tan to fade faster and lead to sunburns.
Does Spray Tan Fade Evenly?
Spray tan fading is a natural and inevitable process that happens as the skin renews itself.
However, you can take steps to minimize uneven fading and make your spray tan last longer.
Proper preparation, aftercare, and maintenance are key to achieving an even, long-lasting spray tan.
Important Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Make Spray Tan Fade Evenly?
To make spray tan fade evenly, you need to prepare your skin properly before the session and take care of it afterward.
This includes exfoliating and shaving at least 24 hours before the session, avoiding tight or restrictive clothing, waiting at least 8 to 10 hours before showering or sweating, and moisturizing daily with a hydrating lotion or oil.
Do Spray Tans Fade Patchy?
Spray tans can fade patchy if the skin is not properly prepared or maintained after the session.
This can happen if you apply lotions, oils, or deodorants on the day of the session, shower or sweat too soon after the session, or wear tight or restrictive clothing that rubs against the skin. To prevent patchy fading, follow the tips mentioned above for even fading.
Do Spray Tans Look Weird at First?
Spray tans may look weird or unnatural at first, especially if you’re not used to having a tan. However, this is normal, and the tan will settle into a more natural-looking shade within a few hours.
To avoid looking too dark or orange, choose a spray tan shade that matches your skin tone and follow the aftercare tips mentioned above.
Does Spray Tan Look Better the Next Day?
Spray tan can look better the next day as the color settles into the skin and the bronzer washes off. However, this also depends on how well you prepare and maintain your skin before and after the session.
