If you're chasing that bronze tan without the beach, or the baggage of harmful UV rays, then you've likely asked yourself: How long does a spray tan last? Here's the short answer: typically between 5 to 10 days. But the real answer? It depends on your prep, your aftercare, your skin type and how committed you are to the glow-up process.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about getting, and keeping, that natural looking glow - including the do's and don'ts.

Before the Glow: Prep Like a Pro

A spray tan is only as good as the canvas it clings to. That means your pre-tan ritual is non-negotiable.

• Exfoliate like your glow depends on it: Dead skin cells are your spray tan's arch-nemesis. Use a gently exfoliating scrub or exfoliating mitt 24 hours before your appointment to create a smooth surface. Pay attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

• Shave or wax the day before (not the day of) to avoid irritation and uneven absorption.

• Skip the lotions, perfumes, and deodorant: These can act as barriers to the tanning solution.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and keep your skin hydrated in the days leading up to your tan. Hydrated skin = happy tan.

The Tan: What to Expect

At Brazil Bronze, our tanning solution is custom-blended to match your skin tone and deliver a natural, healthy glow. Whether you’re going for a lighter tan or a darker shade, our artists tailor the application to your unique skin.

After your session, you might feel sticky for a hot minute, that’s normal. Just slip into loose fitting clothes (think flowy dresses or oversized tees) and let the magic develop.

Avoid showering for at least 8 hours (unless you opted for an express formula). During this time, don’t hit the gym, the pool, or your white linen sheets.

After the Tan: Make It Last

A little care goes a long way. Here’s how to stretch your spray tan beyond the standard shelf life:

• First shower: Rinse gently with lukewarm water only, no soap, no scrubbing. Just a light rinse until the guide colour washes away.

• Say no to bar soaps and harsh body washes: Go for gentle, sulfate-free body washes that won’t strip your skin.

• Hydration is key: Use an oil free moisturizer daily to keep your skin hydrated and help your tan fade evenly. Avoid oil based moisturizers, which can break down the tan.

• Skip the long baths, hot showers, and saunas: Excessive sweating and steam can cause your tan to fade unevenly.

• Be product-aware: Steer clear of retinol, salicylic acid, or AHAs on your face, they’re tan killers.

Style Smarts: Dress for Tan Success

Post-tan wardrobe? Think loose fitting clothing only. Tight fitting clothing or underwear can rub your tan the wrong way and leave patchy results. That sports bra? Not today, honey.

Glow Goals: Keep That Colour Coming

Your skin naturally renews every 28 days, and as your skin cells shed, your tan will fade. To maintain a long lasting tan, consider topping up every 7–10 days.

If your tan is fading faster than you’d like, consider using a gradual tanning lotion or tanning drops mixed into your daily moisturiser. These little boosters can refresh your bronze tan without starting from scratch.

The Fade-Out: When It's Time to Say Goodbye

Even the perfect tan has an expiration date. As your spray begins to fade, it should do so gradually. If you notice it starting to fade unevenly, gently exfoliate your whole body with an exfoliating mitt and prep for your next appointment.

Why Spray Tanning > Tanning Beds

Let’s keep it cute, but real. Spray tans give you the glow without the side effects of tanning beds: premature aging, sunspots, and that tiny thing called skin cancer. A natural glow, minus the harmful UV rays? Yes, please.

Final Glow-Up

So, how long does a spray tan last? With the right prep, smart aftercare, and a little love, your glow can stretch beyond the average 5–10 days. Want it to last longer? Glow smarter.

Come to Brazil Bronze for a tan that turns heads and treats your skin right, because you deserve more than just colour. You deserve a healthy glow.