How Long Do Self-Tanning Lotions Last?
Self-tanning lotions give you a sun-kissed look without the UV damage. However, the glow doesn't last forever. Understanding how long a self-tan lasts and how to maintain it, helps you get the most out of your glow.
Average Lifespan of Self-Tanners
On average, self-tanning lotions last anywhere from five to seven days. Self-tanners use an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA safely reacts with the amino acids in the dead skin cells on the outermost layer of your skin, temporarily darkening them to create a natural, sun-kissed glow. Because your body naturally sheds dead skin cells every day, your tan will fade as those cells fall off. The five to ten day timeline is the average rate at which your body sheds this top layer of skin.
What Factors Affect How Long Your Self-Tanner Lasts?
If your self-tan is fading quickly, there could be a few reasons why. Here are common factors affecting the longevity of your glow.
Skin Type
Your skin type plays a big part in how long your self-tanner lasts. People with oily skin often find that their tan fades a little faster. The natural oils produced by the skin can break down the DHA reaction more quickly. On the other hand, dry skin tends to absorb self-tanning lotion very quickly. While this might give you a dark color initially, dry skin flakes off much faster than hydrated skin. If your skin is dry, dead skin cells shed faster, which makes your tan fade quicker. Normal skin usually holds a self-tan glow the longest.
Quality of Self-Tanner
Not all self-tanning lotions deliver the same results. Brown Bee’s self-tanning lotion is made from naturally derived DHA to give you a healthy, natural-looking tan. Our lotion is also infused with nourishing skincare ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter to keep your skin hydrated. Cheaper products often contain harsh alcohols that dry out the skin, leading to a tan that cracks, patches, and fades almost immediately.
Application of Self-Tanner
How you apply the self-tanning lotion is important for maintaining an even glow. If you rush through the application process, skip prepping your skin, or over-apply the self-tanner, your tan will fade unevenly. Taking the time to apply the self-tanner ensures the DHA penetrates evenly across your body.
How Do You Make Your Self-Tanner Last Longer?
Follow these tips to lock in your self-tan and keep your glow looking fresh, even, and last as long as possible.
- Prep your skin properly⎯Exfoliate 24-hours before applying self-tanner to create a smooth, even base.
- Keep your skin hydrated⎯Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep skin from drying out and shedding quickly.
- Avoid long, hot showers⎯Take lukewarm showers to prevent stripping your tan.
- Use gentle body wash⎯Choose sulfate-free, pH-balanced cleansers to help preserve the color of your self-tan.
- Pat skin dry⎯Avoid rubbing your skin with a towel because this can cause uneven fading.
- Skip exfoliation⎯Don’t exfoliate for several days after applying self-tanner.
- Wear loose clothing⎯Reduce friction that can cause patchiness and fading.
- Limit chlorine exposure⎯Pools and hot tubs can fade your tan faster.
- Use a gradual tanner⎯Apply Brown Bee’s Gradual Tan Daily Moisturizer after several days to maintain and extend your glow.
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FAQs
Does skin type affect how long a self-tan lasts?
Dry skin usually sheds faster, which can cause your tan to fade more quickly, while well-hydrated skin helps extend the longevity of the tan.
Can I make my self-tan last longer?
Keeping your skin moisturized, avoiding long hot showers, and using gentle body washes can help maintain your color.
Does swimming affect how long a self-tan lasts?
Chlorine and saltwater can break down your tan faster, which means it will fade faster.
Can I shower after applying self-tanner?
You should wait at least 6–8 hours before showering to allow the tan to fully develop.