Wondering how to get the most out of your fake tan?

Below we explain how long the average fake tan should last and give you some expert tips on how to extend it out, brighten it up along the way, and avoid early fading.

How long does a mousse fake tan last?

So how long does self-tanner last? It can depend on the formula type you have chosen. At Sontse we currently have two types of formulations: a mousse self-tanner that provides deeper, fuller coverage and a mist self-tanner that offers lighter coverage.

If applied correctly (following our How to Tan Guide), one application of our Golden Hour Self Tan Mousse left to develop between 1-4 hours, should last between 7-10 days, depending on how well exfoliated your skin is before applying and how well you maintain your tan.

We know… that’s impressive.

So what is it that makes this self-tanning formula last so long? At Sontse, our unique formulation was designed with busy mums and women in mind. This is why we used a particular ratio of DHA in our product that would require less development time with a rich, European tone effect.

In case you haven’t read our article: How does fake tan work? The science of sunless tanning, DHA is the skin-safe ingredient that is commonly used as the active ingredient in sunless tanning agents (fake tans).

According to Wong (2015), it only penetrates the very outer layer of the skin, which is also known as the dead skin cells.

How long does a mist fake tan last?

A mist or at-home tanning spray like our Sun Lit Face & Body Tan Mist, if applied according to the instructions should last anywhere from 3-5 days. Again, this depends on your skincare and beauty regime. It is recommended to use this more frequently as we are washing our face with cleansers, makeup removers, etc. which will speed up breaking the tan down.

With a lower DHA ratio in the formulation and a lighter spray feature that disperses less sunless tanner at a time, this allows for a more buildable, gradual tan.

Because of this buildable tan ability, the mist can be used as a tan extender, prolonging your tan for an extra one or two days with every application.

Of course, if you’re wondering how long does a spray tan last – the kind you’d get at a salon, this is a very different question. This will depend on the kind of tanning solution they use in-house, so be sure to chat with your spray tan artist prior to booking.

Our top 5 tips to make your fake tan last longer

Now,  we should warn you here… just because you can keep extending your tan with a mist, doesn’t mean you should. Repeatedly building upon your tan without properly exfoliating, going back to a clean slate and starting again, can over time cause buildup or patchiness.

Instead, here are some ways to properly prep your skin for a long-lasting tan, as well as some tips on what to do post tan to keep your long-lasting fake tan shining as bright as possible without re-application.

1. Choose the right sunless tanning products to begin with

Achieving the longest-lasting fake tan has a lot to do with the quality of the self-tanner you choose.

Not only when it comes to the right colour match, but also the quality of ingredients. Should your fake tan be made with cheap or nasty ingredients that dry out your skin, you can bet your dollar that you’ll need to exfoliate and lap up on hydrating skincare products sooner.

This is where our Sontse collection is proudly set apart. Created with the same hydrating ingredients and benefits that you’d expect from a quality skincare, your skin will maintain it’s dewiness a lot longer than most products out there.

2. Prep your skin before applying a self-tanner

The next most important thing to think about when trying to get the most out of your fake tan, is correctly prepping your skin.

This begins with proper exfoliation. You can read here, the comprehensive guide on How to exfoliate. Something to be aware of though is to make sure that your exfoliant doesn’t have ingredients that counteract with your tanner. We advise avoiding any chemical exfoliants, and instead opting for a gentle face & body exfoliating scrub like this one.

Still have a few lumps and bumps that need a deeper buffing? Pair the scrub with an exfoliating mitt that’s specifically designed for self-tanning, and experience the difference it makes on achieving that flawless, airbrushed tan.

While you’re in the shower prepping your skin, don’t forget to shave! You don’t want your tan to outlast your hair-free days. And DON’T FORGET to finish your shower with a cold rinse that helps close the pores.

Dry yourself off thoroughly before applying any tan. Oh, and do not… we repeat, DO NOT APPLY ANY MOISTURISER before applying your tan.

3. During the tanning process - avoid all moisture and tight clothing

Ok, now that we made it this far… these next 1-4 hours where your tan is applied and developing are critical. Any exposure to water or rubbing from tight clothes will impact the coverage of the tan.

Remember, it is only once the tan is washed off that the developing process completes, so ensuring you wash it off all at once is key to achieving a consistent-looking tan.

While we’re on the topic of washing off your tan, be sure to use only warm water to do this, avoid rubbing, and make sure you pat-dry once stepping out of the shower or bathtub.

Getting your tan right from the start means less messing about in coming days, so do try and do this part mindfully.

4. Moisturise daily BUT avoid applying any oil-based products

Now in the coming days, while  it’s important to moisturise regularly with a fake tan to prevent dryness, cracking and patchiness, you need to be mindful of the products you’re using.

Stay away from anything oil-based that will cause the tanner to loosen.

5. Know what to stay away from!

Chlorine, steam rooms, harsh chemicals and soaps, bra tapes, band-aids – these are all things that can cause your tan to fade prematurely. So be conscious about your activities when sporting your glowing tan.

Oh, and skin-to-skin contact… whether it’s getting hot and steamy or simply crossing your legs can all create moisture and sweat… we won’t tell you what to do or not do there… just do so with caution ;)

So… fake tan, how long does it last? It’s not exactly the most straightforward question, but with these practical tips up your sleeve, you’ll no doubt be flaunting your glow a lot longer than most.

 

REFERENCES

Wong, M. (2015, November 3). The Science of How Fake Tan Works. Lab Muffin Beauty Science. Retrieved February 3, 2024, from https://labmuffin.com/the-science-of-how-fake-tan-works/