It’s time to glow! It’s easy to get a tan in the summer, and we would love to have the sun-kissed glow all year long. A tanned skin boosts self-confidence, conceals imperfections in the skin (that we ALL have!), and a great tan makes you look healthier. Fortunately, some clever people invented self-tanner for getting that golden glow most of us crave. The downside of the miracle-in-a-bottle: it fades and doesn’t last very long. You might have the number 1 burning question on your mind: how long does self-tanner last? We’ve got you covered, and give you ideas on how to extend your tan!
How long does self-tanner last?
In general, there’s no golden rule on how long a faux glow will last. How long a self-tanner lasts depends on your skin type. The lucky ones with dark or olive skin will enjoy their tan for longer than those with fair skin. Most self-tanners can last anywhere from 2 days to a week before you need to re-apply your golden hue. But wait! There are ways you can extend your tan. Self-tanners with great prep and careful application can last for up to 10 days!
6 ways to make your self-tanner last longer
If you’re longing for the sun-kissed glow, applying self-tanner with no streaks is essential. However, the secret to a long-lasting faux glow goes beyond how you apply it. We have 5 tips to make your tan last longer.
#1 Exfoliate and moisturize before you apply self-tanner
It’s all about the prep! How well you prep your skin before applying self-tanner makes or breaks your golden hue. Self-tanner has the annoying tendency to cling to any dry patches and dead skin cells. Exfoliators remove dead skin cells and moisturizers help create an even surface for self-tanner.
#2 Apply self-tanner at night
Clothes can mess up your tan when the self-tanner is still sinking into your skin. The process can take up to no less than 8 hours! To get better tanning results, it’s best to incorporate self-tanner into your evening routine. Plus you’ll enjoy your tan for longer.
#3 Avoid hot baths
As much as you love taking a hot bath, your tan will only fade quicker. It’s better to take a shower instead, since quick showers help reduce the shedding of the skin. We promise: if you avoid soaking, your tan will last longer.
#4 Moisturize daily
Your skin loves moisture, whether it’s tanned or not. Using a daily moisturizer helps prevents shedding and will prolong your tan. Another benefit: your tan will evenly fade, and you won’t look blotched! Especially illuminating moisturizers are perfect to use. They highlight your tan while keeping your skin moisturized.
Tip: Avoid moisturizers that contain citrus ingredients. As lovely as citrus may smell, these ingredients only strip your tan.
Another tip: Avoid oil-based moisturizers. It’s tricky to evenly apply your self-tanner, plus oils break down the tanner after application to the skin.
#5 Drink water to keep your skin hydrated
Your skin and water are a match made in heaven. Water helps keep your skin stay moisturized, healthy and radiant.
#6 Wear sunscreen daily
Daily wearing sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 is essential to avoid burning. Sunburned skin means damaged skin. And damaged skin often leads to peeling, causing your tan to fade faster. Wearing sunscreen helps protect your skin from sunburns and keeps your skin hydrated. And hydration helps make your tan last longer!
