How Long Does a Spray Tan Last? (And How to Make It Last Longer)

A professional spray tan usually lasts 5 to 10 days. How long yours lasts depends on your skin, how you prep, and how you look after it in the days afterwards. At Glam Tans, our spray tan studio in Taylors Lakes, this is the question we're asked most. Here's everything I've learned since 2009 about creating a natural glow that looks flawless and fades evenly.

How long does a spray tan last?

Most clients enjoy 5 to 7 days of gorgeous colour, and up to 10 days with good aftercare. Your skin naturally renews itself every few days, and your tan gently fades along with it. That's why exfoliating before your appointment and moisturising afterwards make such a big difference.

What helps your tan last longer

• Hydrated skin: well-moisturised skin holds colour longer, so daily moisturiser is your best friend.

• Fresh, prepped skin: starting with freshly exfoliated skin and no old tan gives the most even, long-lasting result.

• Lukewarm showers: help your colour last longer.

• The right products: water-based moisturisers and gentle body washes keep your tan looking fresh.

How to prepare for your spray tan

Good preparation is the single biggest factor in a long-lasting, flawless result.

Before your appointment

• Exfoliate daily for 2 to 3 days before your appointment, especially the night before, paying extra attention to knees, elbows, ankles and hands.

• Complete any waxing, shaving or threading at least 24 hours before your tan so your pores have time to close.

• Having laser hair removal? Check the timing with your laser technician, as some treatments need up to 2 weeks before your spray tan.

• Remove any old self tan completely.

On the day

• Arrive with fresh, clean skin, saving your moisturiser, deodorant, perfume and makeup for after your tan.

• Keep any shower before your tan lukewarm, and save hot showers, baths, saunas and steam rooms for another day. Cooler skin keeps your pores closed for the most even colour.

• Wear loose, dark clothing and slip-on shoes.

• If you're wearing a bra home, choose a loose, soft one to keep your tan flawless and mark-free.

You'll find more detail on our Preparation & Care page.

How long to leave your spray tan on before showering

Every Glam Tans session is personalised. Before your tan, we'll chat about the colour you'd love to achieve, from a soft natural glow to a deep bronze, and I'll tell you exactly when to rinse to get that result. Your timing is tailored to your skin tone and the look you're going for, so you get the glow you want.

For your first rinse, use lukewarm water only with no soap, and keep it quick (30 seconds is perfect). Gently pat your skin dry. You may see some colour in the water. That's just the bronzer rinsing away while your tan keeps developing underneath.

7 ways to make your spray tan last longer

• Moisturise every day, starting after your first rinse, morning and night.

• Keep showers short and lukewarm. This helps your colour last longer.

• Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

• Save scrubs, exfoliating gloves and oil-based products for when you're ready to prep for your next tan.

• Keep your glow away from chlorine. Pool and spa chemicals can streak your colour. Excessive perspiration lifts your tan too.

• Use a tan extender to keep your colour even and extend your glow for up to 14 days.

• Planning your next tan? Once your tan has faded, remove any remaining colour completely so your next one goes on fresh, even and flawless.

When to book your spray tan before an event

For formals, weddings, the races or a big night out, book your tan 1 to 2 days before the event. That gives your colour time to fully develop and settle, so it looks its most natural on the day. Heading on holiday? Book your tan 1 day before you leave, so you arrive at your destination already glowing.

Frequently asked questions

Will my spray tan look natural?

Absolutely. Every tan is matched to your skin tone and developed for just the right amount of time, from a light natural glow for first-timers to a deep, rich bronze.

Can I work out after a spray tan?

Yes. For the best result, wait at least 12 hours after your tan before exercising, so your colour can develop fully. Excessive perspiration lifts your tan.

How do I keep my tan even as it fades?

Daily moisturising is the secret, especially on drier areas like knees, elbows and hands. A tan extender keeps your colour smooth and even right to the end.

How often should I get a spray tan?

Most clients book their next tan once their previous one has faded, or ahead of each event. Make sure any old tan is completely removed before your appointment for the most even, natural result.

Book your spray tan in Taylors Lakes

Glam Tans is a private, welcoming spray tan and infrared sauna studio at 21 Wyperfeld Avenue, Taylors Lakes, just minutes from Keilor Downs, Sydenham, Hillside, Caroline Springs and Delahey. Full body tans are $60, with group and bridal packages available. Book your spray tan online or call Tina on 0422 423 422.

Save this guide for your next tan, and share it with a friend who's getting ready for a big event.