Why Your Self Tan Is Fading Too Fast — and How to Make It Last

You spent time perfecting the best fake tan to finally nail that gorgeous, golden glow and then days later — it’s now patchy, dull, or basically gone. There’s definitely nothing worse than watching it fade away faster than expected! This is truly a common concern that comes with self tanning: how to make its glow last longer and maintain your fake tan as long as possible.

Don't worry, we've got you covered! We will dive into why your tanning products might be fading faster and share all self tanning hacks on how to make it last longer. Let's get into it!

1. Prep your Skin Properly

First thing first, before applying any self tanner, it's crucial to prepare your skin properly. This step is often overlooked by some but it could actually make a difference and help your self tan longer. Your best tanning products sit on the outermost layer of your skin and if that layer is dry, your self tanning mousse or self tanning lotion won't stick around.

Here’s what you need to do: 

Exfoliate: Before applying a self tanning product, gently exfoliate your skin for at least 24 hours in advance. You must take extra attemtion to dry or rough areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and feet.

Moisturize: Once you're done exfoliating, use a lightweight and water-based moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. When your skin lacks moisture, it tends to shed faster and take your self tan with it. That's when your glow startsnto fade in patchy, yneven spots.

2. Apply your Self Tanner the Right Way

Your skin is now prepped and ready, it’s time to apply the best self tanning product you have. The way you apply it is the key to achieving a smooth and streak-free tan. Check out these self tan tricks to help you nail it:

• Pick the right shade that suits you: Choose a self tanner shade that really matches your skin tone and the kind of tan you want to achieve. Picking the right shade is the secret to a natural-looking glow.  

• Use your best tanning mitt or tanning glove: These are your best friends when applying self tanner. They keep your hands stain free and help blend the product evenly for a seamless application and glow.
  

• Start from the bottom and move up: By using gentle circular motions, apply your self tanning spray beginning at your feet and work your way up to blend your tan evenly. Apply a smaller amount on areas that tend to absorb quickly like your elbows, knees, ankles, and feet.
  
  

3. Give the Tan Time to Set

Allow your tan to ‘lock in.’ Wait around 10-15 minutes until your self tanner is completely dry before getting dressed or touching anything. This is worth the wait to avoid smudges or transfer. Rinsing too soon, sweating, or putting on tight clothing can ruin your tan before it even fully develops.

Give Tan Fan’s Self Tan Powders a try! Just sprinkle over your tan and this will instantly leave your skin silky, smooth, and dry. They’re simple to use, set your tan fast, and keep it transfer proof. And speaking of staying transfer-proof, to keep your glow intact even while you sleep, pair it with Tan Fan’s Self Tan Sleep Sac—it protects your tan so you’ll wake up with that perfect, natural-looking bronze.

A fading tan doesn’t have to happen with the right routine. You can extend your tan for a week or even longer. Just treat your skin gently, and it will reward you with a beautiful, lasting bronze glow.