Getting an airbrush tan is a great way to save both your skin and your time. But how long does an airbrush or spray tan last? In general we say about a week to ten days, however, proper preparation and aftercare can help extend your tan.

Before

Before the application, clean and exfoliate your skin, however do this at least three hours before tanning. The active ingredient that creates the airbrush tan is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA comes from natural sugar cane which interacts with the amino acids on your outer layer of skin to produce a brown color. You need that three hours after exfoliation to allow the amino acids in your skin to rebuild.

Also, before your tan, remove any perfumes, lotions, oils, deodorants, gels or any product that could create a barrier.

After

• After the tanning solution has been applied avoid moisture such as swimming, showering, sweating, or hot tubs for at least 12 hours.
• Apply lotion every day after your first shower. However, don’t use a lotion that contains petroleum or mineral oil as this can cause early fading and streaking.
• Do not use anything abrasive on your skin after applying the airbrush tan. After showering or bathing, don’t rub your skin dry, but rather pat yourself dry.
• Try to keep shaving to a minimum.
• Chlorine and salt water will fade the tan.

So, even though keeping up with an airbrush tan can take some effort, at least you aren’t dealing with damaging UV Exposure and peeling that come from trying to get a tan from the sun. The Tanning Store has many options to choose from when deciding which tanning solution is right for you. We have plenty of healthy moisturizing products to help extend your tan as well. Visit our website to find the products that are right for you!