Why Do Spray Tans Turn Out Differently? Factors That Affect Your Glow
Have you ever wondered, “Why does my spray tan look different?” even when using the same solution and technique, results can vary from session to session. The truth is, several factors—like skin pH, prep routine, and even hormones—can influence how your tan develops. In this guide, we’ll break down the top reasons why spray tans can look different and how to achieve a flawless, long-lasting glow every time.
1. Your Skin’s pH Balance
Your skin’s pH level plays a huge role in how your spray tan develops. A more acidic or alkaline skin environment can impact how the tanning solution interacts with your skin, affecting the final color.
Ways to balance your skin’s pH for the best results:
✅ Avoid using bar soaps, which can be too alkaline.
✅ Skip lotions and oils before your spray tan.
✅ Use a Norvell eXmitt (available at Shades Atelier) to create the perfect canvas for an even tan.
2. Recent Skincare & Product Use
The products you use before and after your spray tan can significantly impact how well it develops and lasts.
Common culprits that interfere with your tan:
🚫 Retinol, AHAs, and BHAs can cause uneven fading.
🚫 Lotions, deodorants, or perfumes can create a barrier before your session.
🚫 Certain body washes (especially those with sulfates) can strip your tan faster.
For the best results, we recommend using spray tan-safe skincare products, which you can find at Shades Atelier.
3. Hormonal Changes & Body Chemistry
Your body’s natural chemistry fluctuates due to hormones, medications, stress, and even your menstrual cycle. These internal factors can affect how DHA (the active ingredient in spray tan solution) reacts with your skin, sometimes making your tan develop lighter or darker than usual. To learn more about DHA, check out our Science Behind DHA blog.
If you’ve noticed variations in your tan, try scheduling your spray sessions at the same point in your cycle or avoiding major hormonal shifts when possible.
4. How Well You Prepped Your Skin
Prepping your skin correctly is one of the most important steps in ensuring a flawless, even tan.
Best practices for spray tan prep:
✔️ Exfoliate 24 hours before your session using a mitt (not a loofah!) to remove dead skin.
✔️ Avoid oil-based exfoliators, which can leave residue.
✔️ Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your tan to allow pores to close.
✔️ Arrive at your session with completely clean, product-free skin.
For more details, check out our Spray Tan Prep Guide
5. Environmental Factors (Weather & Humidity)
Believe it or not, the weather can also impact your spray tan!
☀️ Hot & Humid Conditions: Can cause excessive sweating, leading to streaks or premature fading.
❄️ Cold & Dry Conditions: Skin may be drier, absorbing solution differently and potentially leading to patchiness.
To combat weather-related tan variations, keep skin hydrated (but oil-free) and dress appropriately post-tan.
6. Your Skin’s Natural Cell Turnover Rate
Skin naturally sheds and regenerates, but the rate at which it does so varies by individual. If your skin cells shed more quickly, your tan may not last as long or could fade unevenly. Staying hydrated and moisturizing daily (with a tan-friendly moisturizer) can help prolong your glow.
7. Spray Tan Solution Development & Processing Time
DHA (the active tanning ingredient) continues to develop over 24 hours after your spray tan, so factors like showering too early, sweating, or using harsh soaps can affect the final result.
🚿 Always wait the recommended time before rinsing! Your technician will provide you with the best timeline based on your solution type (rapid vs. regular).
Final Thoughts: Every Tan is Unique!
At Shades Atelier, we use high-quality solutions and expert techniques, but your body’s unique chemistry, prep routine, and external factors all play a role in how your tan develops. If you ever have questions about how to optimize your spray tan results, our team is happy to help!
📅 Book your next custom spray tan with us today: Booking Link
