Spray Tan: Preparation, Application & Aftercare

Jillian Kinton-Vieira
Created by: Jillian Kinton-Vieira Registered Nurse
Key points
  • Use sunscreen every day after a spray tan, since the color does not protect the skin from sunburn.
  • Skip spray tanning and get medical advice if the skin becomes very irritated, red, or develops an unusual reaction after application.
  • Avoid UV tanning beds, since FDA warnings link them to skin damage and a higher risk of skin cancer.

A spray tan is a cosmetic procedure used to darken the skin by applying a product directly to the skin. It does not require sun exposure or UV tanning beds, and it can be done as often as a person feels necessary.

In the past, artificial tanning was done in UV tanning beds. However, UV tanning beds are associated with important health risks, and the FDA warns that UV radiation from tanning devices can damage the skin and increase skin cancer risk.

A spray tan can be done at an aesthetic or dermatology clinic, where professionals can better adjust the depth of color to match what the person wants. The results can last for up to 10 days, and certain skin care steps are recommended before the session.

technician applying a spray tan to a client

How it works

Spray tanning products contain an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with proteins and amino acids on the surface of the skin. This reaction produces a pigment called melanoidin that gives the skin a tanned appearance.

This pigment does not damage the skin. It only changes the skin’s color, leaving it temporarily tanned with a natural-looking appearance.

Are spray tans harmful?

Spray tanning is generally considered safe for the skin because it does not involve exposure to UV radiation.

According to the FDA, UV radiation from tanning devices can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.

When used as directed, spray tanning does not carry the same UV-related risks as indoor or outdoor tanning, such as burns, redness, long-term skin damage, or a higher risk of skin cancer.

Preparation tips

Some important steps to take before a spray tan include:

  • Remove all jewelry and accessories, such as earrings, rings, bracelets, watches, piercings, and necklaces.

  • Do not apply makeup, oils, lotions, deodorant, or perfume to your skin.

  • Exfoliate your skin at least 6 hours before the appointment.

  • Shower with a gentle, pH‑neutral body wash before your spray tan.

  • On the day of the session, wear light, loose-fitting clothing and sandals.

In addition, if the person wants to shave or lighten body hair, it is recommended that this be done at least 48 hours before the spray tan.

Application process

A spray tan is done by applying a tanning product containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is placed in a container attached to a compressor so the product can be sprayed evenly onto the skin.

The spray tan takes about 20 minutes for product application and 10 minutes for the skin to dry.

The effects of the spray tan product start about 3 hours after application and continue to deepen over 7 hours, leaving the skin with a golden tan.

Aftercare instructions

After the spray tan product is applied, it is important to:

  • Avoid putting on clothes for the next 20 minutes to prevent stains.

  • Avoid showering for the next 7 hours, because the product continues working on the skin during that time, and removing it too early may affect the results.

  • Avoid exercise or activities that increase sweating for at least 7 hours after application.

  • Avoid rubbing the skin with a towel after showering or using exfoliants or hair-bleaching products, because this increases skin shedding and may cause uneven patches.

  • Avoid saunas, swimming pools, or the ocean, because they can stain the skin or reduce how long the tan lasts.

  • Keep the skin well moisturized by applying a lotion recommended by the dermatologist or aesthetician after the spray tan.

  • Avoid hot showers and body oils, because this can help the tan last longer.

It is also important to use sunscreen every day with at least SPF 30. According to the FDA, sunless tanning products that do not contain sunscreen do not protect against sunburn, which is why daily sunscreen use remains important after a spray tan.

Main disadvantages

Although it offers a convenient and fast way to achieve a tanned appearance, a spray tan is temporary and typically lasts up to about 10 days after application.

This means that more spray tan sessions may be needed, which makes the procedure more expensive.

In addition, the product can stain towels and clothing, even after it has dried and even when you follow the clinic’s instructions, such as keeping the skin moisturized.

How to tan the skin naturally

To help maintain a tan for longer, one option is to use a self-tanner at home.

Also recommended: Fake Tan: How to Apply & Care Instructions tuasaude.com/en/fake-tan

In addition, to keep the skin tanned, it is recommended to get sun exposure while wearing sunscreen, keep the skin well moisturized, exfoliate regularly, and eat foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots and beets.

Update History
We regularly update our content with the latest scientific information to maintain an exceptional level of quality.

References
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Tanning. FDA. Updated 29 Aug 2024. Accessed 24 Mar 2026 https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/tanning/tanning
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Sunlamps and sunlamp products (tanning beds/booths). FDA. Updated 29 Aug 2024. Accessed 24 Mar 2026 https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/tanning/sunlamps-and-sunlamp-products-tanning-bedsbooths
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. FDA. Accessed 24 Mar 2026 https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/tanning/ultraviolet-uv-radiation
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Cosmetic tanning products. FDA. Updated 25 Aug 2025. Accessed 24 Mar 2026 https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/cosmetic-tanning-products
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Search results for sunscreen labeling requirements. FDA. Accessed 24 Mar 2026 https://www.fda.gov/search?s=sunscreen+labeling+requirements
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use. FDA. 2021. Accessed 24 Mar 2026 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/09/27/2021-20417/sunscreen-drug-products-for-over-the-counter-human-use
  • AMANO, K.; et al. A colorimetric comparison of sunless with natural skin tan. PLoS One. 2020;15(12):e0233816.
  • MEHTA, R.; et al. Exogenous exposure to dihydroxyacetone mimics high fructose induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Environ Mol Mutagen. 2021;62(3):185-202.
  • BRAUNBERGER, T. L.; et al. Dihydroxyacetone: A Review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(4):387-391.