How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?

If you've ever asked, "How long does a spray tan last?"—you’re not alone as it’s one of the most frequently asked by first-time clients at BlushTan San Diego.

The good news? With the right prep and aftercare, your glow can last longer and fade more evenly.

Most Spray Tans Last Approximately 5-7 Days

A professionally applied, organic-based spray tan will typically last 5 to 7 days. this is a conservative estimate for a blushtan sprat tan and the tan can last much longer, but this estiamte is given because of the role the client plays in the length of their tan. Factors that impact the tan’s last include:

Your skin type
how dry your skin is
How well you exfoliated beforehand
The solution used
Aftercare and lifestyle (i.e., swimming, workouts, exfoliants)

We tailor your tan using our Blush Custom Blend System, which adapts to your skin tone and desired depth of color.

How to Prep for a Longer-Lasting Tan

Your tan’s longevity starts before you even step into the studio. Here's how to set the stage for success:

Exfoliate thoroughly within 24 hours before your tan (avoid oil-based scrubs)
Shave or wax ahead of time—not the day of
Arrive with clean, dry skin (no lotions, makeup, deodorant)
Wear loose, dark clothing and flip flops post-tan

Need help prepping? We offer in-studio prep wipes and sell exfoliating mitts that are tan-safe.

Aftercare: Keep That Glow Glowing

Once your tan is applied, avoid contact with liquids, sweating and wearing anything tight until your designated rinse time. during your first rinse, you’ll truly rinse as the tan will continue to develop on its own for 24 hours. after the first shower be sure to:

Use a gentle, sulfate-free, body wash
Pat dry instead of rubbing
Moisturize daily with a tan-safe lotion

do not:

Take long baths or hot showers
limit heated workouts
Use exfoliants or retinoids
Shave frequently or scrub skin

Pro Tips to Extend Your Tan

To make your glow last a full 7-10 days (and beyond), we recommend:

Using a gradual tanning lotion by Day 3 (ask us in-studio!)
Avoiding chlorine, hot yoga, or intense exfoliation
Staying hydrated (inside and out!)

Real Results from BlushTan Clients

Our clients love how even and natural their tans look from day 1 to day 10. Whether it's for a vacation, wedding, photoshoot, or just a confidence boost, your tan should fade beautifully. you’ll have the most color 24 hours after your appointment, and then if your tan was prepped for and is taken care of properly, it should be a gradual fade of color from there on out. going in too dark of a color can cause a quicker more uneven fade which is why we specialize in natural looking tans!

Why Choose BlushTan San Diego?

With 3 convenient studio locations in La Jolla, Bankers Hill, and Encinitas, we’re known for:

Organic-based, fast-drying solutions
skin firming hyaluronic acid and caffeine
Custom-blended tones for every skin type
Ultra clean, luxe studio environments
Lasting, even fades

Ready to glow? book your custom airbrush tan here

How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?