Do you prefer tanned skin but don’t know how long it will stick with you? This guide covers your query in detail.
Read the entire article for a complete understanding.
How Long Does It Take For a Tan To Go Away?
Generally, a tan can last from 7 to 10 days. The longevity of a tan depends on the type of tan and skin.
How Long Does a Natural Tan Last?
A natural tan will usually last for 7-10 days.
The process commences with the sun’s UV rays stimulating the production of a pigment called melanin in the outer layer of the skin. This substance absorbs UV rays and renders the dark tone to your skin.
N.B. Sitting long hours in the sun can induce a risk of sunburn.
How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?
Sunless tanning gives a bronze glow to your skin, without spending time in the sun.
Spray tans contain a chemical compound called dihydroxyacetone that darkens the outer layer of the skin. This tan fades away in 5-7 days.
Factors Affecting Longevity of a Tan
The main factors that affect the tanning process are:
Tanning method (sunlight, tanning bed, etc.)
Type of skin
Intensity of UV radiation
Duration of ultra-violet radiation
Skin care regimen after tanning
Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale
The Fitzpatrick scale uses melanin concentration to categorize the type of skin. Melanin is a pigment responsible for the coloration of skin, hair, and eyes.
Light-colored skin types lose their tan quickly. Moreover, they are at a higher risk of skin damage from UV exposure. Darker skin types are protected from UV radiation because of higher production of melanin.
How Long Does a Tan Last On a Dark Skin?
Dark skin possess keratinocytes in higher quantities, which helps to sustain a tan for longer periods.
Keratinocytes are recycled from the outer epidermis in 4-6 weeks. So you will see a gradual fade from a full tan to a natural skin color.
Black or brown skin will burn from intense UV exposure. All skins are at risk of damage from the sun. Protect your skin by applying SPF.
N.B. Intense UV radiation can cause an uneven tan.
How Long Does a Tan Last On a Light Skin?
On lighter skin, the tan will disappear after a couple of weeks because of fewer keratinocytes.
Light-skinned individuals tan slower but stronger. Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen and SPF.
How To Keep a Tan From Fading?
To keep my tanned skin last longer, here’s what I do:
Exfoliating skin before going out. Dead cells make skin appear dull and pale on the outermost layer of your skin. A gentle exfoliation works like magic and gives a tan a smooth, even base.
Take lukewarm or cool showers. Hot showers dehydrate skin cells and cause tan to fade quickly.
Keep your skin moisturized. It holds the tan longer than dry skin.
Use a tan extender or supplement with a tanning lotion; it helps maintain tanned skin cells and stimulates the production of melanin.
Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Your skin sheds slowly, keeping a glowing tan for long periods.
Keep Your Golden Glow For Long Periods
The longevity of your tan depends on your skin type, UV exposure, and other factors. If you want your tan to stay longer, follow the above-mentioned guidelines, and I bet you won’t regret it. Enjoy your longer-lasting tan!