A professional spray tan generally lasts between 5 to 10 days, with the exact duration depending on factors such as your skin type, the shade of tan chosen, and how well you care for your tan after application
- Shade depth: Darker tans tend to last longer-up to 10 days-because they contain more DHA (the active tanning ingredient), while lighter tans may fade after about 5 days
- Skin type: People with drier skin may see their tan fade faster, whereas well-moisturized skin helps maintain the color longer
- Aftercare: Proper preparation (like exfoliating before the tan) and careful aftercare (avoiding harsh soaps, hot water, excessive sweating, and moisturizing daily) can extend the life of your spray tan
Some sources note that while a spray tan can last up to two weeks, it typically starts to look patchy or less fresh after about 7 days, so many people opt to reapply weekly for the best appearance
. In summary, expect your spray tan to last about one week on average, with up to 10 days possible under ideal conditions and with proper care. Beyond that, the tan will naturally fade as your skin exfoliates