Have you ever had a spray tan that just smelled bad? Maybe it was because you didn’t shower before your appointment, or maybe the technician didn’t properly rinse the product off.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to know how to get rid of spray tan smell so that you can enjoy your beautiful bronzed skin without any offensive odors.
Keep on reading to find out how to get rid of spray tan smell, after having a spray tan applied.
What is a spray tan?
A spray tan is a sunless tanning option, generally used to give the skin an artificial ‘bronzed’ look.
Essentially, the self-tanner process involves the application of a fine mist to the body using a handheld spray gun or automated machine.
The solution contains an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which reacts with the proteins in surface skin cells and darkens them without damaging or penetrating into deeper layers of skin.
The application process typically takes under 10 minutes, and clients have several options when it comes to choosing their desired shade – ranging from light golden browns to deep mahogany tones.
Before application, clients are usually asked to prepare their skin by exfoliating with a loofah sponge and showering before treatment.
This helps to remove any oils or dirt for even absorption of the product that follows.
To promote the best results, clients should avoid shaving/waxing for at least 24 hours after treatment, as this can strip away product and reduce its longevity.
Spray tans last anywhere from 3 to 14 days, depending on how well they have been cared for following applications.
Daily moisturizing and avoiding chlorine pools/ beaches are key ways in maximizing your tan’s life span.
How does a spray tan work?
A spray tan is a type of self-tanning or sunless tanning in which an individual sprays or mists their body with special sunless tanning solution.
The solution usually contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that reacts with the proteins and amino acids in your skin to cause a browning effect.
This reaction develops within two to four hours, but can take up to 24 hours, depending on the product used and the person’s desired color.
Spray tanning works by applying a fine mist of DHA directly onto the surface of your skin when used correctly, it will provide you with an even and natural-looking tan—without exposing yourself to harmful UV rays from the sun or indoor tanning beds.
The DHA interacts with keratin proteins found on the top layer of your skin; this process is responsible for giving you that bronze glow as it darkens over time.
After application, it typically takes 2–4 hours for the full development of results, but may even take up to 24 hours depending on each individual’s needs or preference.
As long as you thoroughly prepare and care for your new faux tan after receiving one, its effects should last anywhere between 3–7 days before fading away naturally without harsh exfoliation or scrubbing required.
Overall, spray tans are one of the most popular forms of self-tanners out there because they are convenient and relatively easy to apply at home.
All while providing users with a gorgeous golden glow without being exposed to any dangerous UV radiation.
How long does a spray tan last?
A spray tan can last anywhere from 5 to 14 days, depending on how well the spray tan is taken care of.
To get the most out of a spray tan, it’s important to practice good post-tan care.
This includes avoiding long periods of time in water (such as showers and swimming) for at least 8 hours after the initial application so that all product has had time to fully develop.
Also, avoid exfoliants and any products that contain oils or acids as those may reduce the longevity of the tan; use only moisturizing body washes containing glycerin or other hydrating ingredients.
Apply a light layer of moisturizer every day afterward and especially right before bedtime; this will help your skin retain its natural oils while keeping your skin hydrated, which helps prolong your spray tan’s life cycle.
Lastly, try to stay away from direct sunlight exposure, since UV rays can potentially fade colors more quickly than normal.
Do spray tans work well on all skin types?
Spray tans are a great way to get a sun-kissed glow without the damaging UV rays of the sun.
However, it is important to bear in mind that not all skin types produce the same results when using spray tanning products.
Generally speaking, those with light skin tones appear to have better results from spray tans than those with dark skin tones.
This has been attributed to how well lighter skin absorbs the tanning solution and how much more natural it looks against their complexion.
Because of this, some people who are medium or dark skinned may find that a spray tan does not look natural on them and instead gives their skin an unnatural orange hue.
This can often be remedied in these cases by choosing a lighter shade of self-tanner or sticking to gradual tanning lotions rather than an instant spray-on tanner.
Those with olive or Asian complexions may need multiple layers of self-tanner applied slowly over time to achieve desired color levels and prevent any unwanted discoloration.
Why do tanning products smell like biscuits?
Getting rid of spray tan smell can be a tricky process. As you know, self-tanner contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone) which is the active ingredient that gives your skin a sun-kissed glow.
Unfortunately, this chemical is known to cause an unpleasant odor when exposed to heat and body chemistry.
To tackle this fragrance issue the first step is to lower the amount of DHA in the spray tan solution that you are using.
Many salon quality solutions have reduced levels of lower DHA so make sure you ask your technician what products they use before applying them.
The next step is to take measures that will help ensure you don’t amplify any existing odors.
Be conscious about what kind of clothing and fabrics you put on afterward, as these can trap in any smelly particles or sweat, exacerbating the problem.
Also it’s important to keep yourself cool and dry – try not risking sitting near a heater or other hot sources if possible and avoid taking hot showers after application as these could reactivate the chemicals causing more scenting agents produced from body chemistry.
If all else fails, there is one final way to get rid of the spray tan smell – baby powder.
After application, lightly dust some on your skin followed by a light patting with a clean cloth will absorb any extra oils left behind and neutralize any residual aroma lingering in your pores.
This should help significantly reduce or completely rid yourself of the self-tanner smell, so you can go back out into public without feeling embarrassed by strange faces looking at you suspiciously.
How to get rid of spray tan smell?
Getting rid of spray tan yeasty smell can be a tricky process. As you know, self-tanner contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone) which is the active ingredient that gives your skin a sun-kissed glow.
Unfortunately, this chemical is known to cause an unpleasant odor when exposed to heat and body chemistry.
To get rid of the smell, the first step is to lower the amount of DHA in the spray tan solution that you are using.
Many salon quality solutions have reduced levels of lower DHA so make sure you ask your technician what products they use before applying them.
The next step is to take measures that will help ensure you don’t amplify any existing yeasty smells when self tanning.
Be conscious about what kind of clothing and fabrics you put on afterward, as these can trap in any smelly particles or sweat, exacerbating the problem.
Also it’s important to keep yourself cool and dry – try not risking sitting near a heater or other hot sources if possible and avoid taking hot showers after application as these could reactivate the chemicals causing more scenting agents produced from body chemistry.
If all else fails, there is one final trick for getting rid of spray tan smell – baby powder.
After application, lightly dust some on your skin followed by a light patting with a clean cloth will absorb any extra oils left behind and neutralize any residual aroma lingering in your pores.
This should help significantly reduce or completely rid yourself of the self-tanner smell, so you can go back out into public without feeling embarrassed by strange faces looking at you suspiciously.
How to cover up the smell of self-tanner from my body?
Covering up the smell of self-tanner from your body can be a tricky process. Self-tanners contain ingredients that create an odor, particularly if you use them in excessive amounts or if they are not removed properly.
To reduce the tanner smell and get rid of the fake tan, it’s important to follow the instructions on the product label and avoid using too much.
Immediately after applying self-tanner, it is essential to shower with lukewarm water and soap – preferably an antibacterial soap – to remove any excess product from your skin.
After showering, apply deodorant or body powder to help neutralize odors, as well as provide additional protection against sweating, which is another major cause of odors caused by self-tanning products.
In addition to covering up the smell with deodorants and body powders, wearing loose-fitting clothing will also help reduce any lingering smells associated with self-tanning lotions or sprays.
Dabbing lemon juice directly onto affected areas like elbows or knees may also help mask some of the scent, but should only be done sparingly, as using too much can lead to dryness and potential staining on clothes.
Finally, when storing your self-tanning products, make sure they are kept away from other items in your bathroom cabinet like perfumes or cologne so that their scents don’t mix and further amplify odors coming off your skin once you apply them again later.
How to get rid of a fake tan smell from a room?
If you’ve recently had a fake tan, then chances are that the smell still lingers in your room.
Fake tan has a distinctively sweet odor that can be difficult to get rid of. Here are some tips to help banish the smell and return your room to its original freshness.
Start by opening all the windows and doors in your house, as well as any vents, if possible.
This will allow any remaining scent particles to escape out of the room.
If you do not have windows or vents available, use fans or other ventilation equipment to keep air circulating in your room.
Use an air purifier with activated carbon filters to absorb any lingering molecules containing odors from the fake tan solution.
Add a delicious aroma back into your bedroom. Place several scented candles around the perimeter of your bedroom, spray air freshener throughout, brew a pot of tea such as chamomile or jasmine tea which both have aromatherapeutic properties. You could also try:
- Place bowls of baking soda throughout; boil orange peels on the stove
- Simmer herb-infused water on stove top for about 30 minutes
- Set bowls of freshly cut citrus fruits around, like oranges and lemons
- Hang different types of essential oils such as lavender or peppermint around your bedroom
- Spray with a fabric freshener, spraying it directly onto furniture upholstery such as chairs and sofas for an added sense of refreshment.
All these strategies should work together to eliminate any unwanted “fake tan” odors from circulating through your living space quickly and easily.
How long does the spray tan smell last?
Spray tan smell can last anywhere from one to five days. This depends on a variety of factors, such as how well the product was applied and how long it was left on before rinsing off.
It can also depend on how your body reacts to the spray tan solution itself and whether you are exfoliating correctly.
In general, if you shower every day and exfoliate regularly, your spray tan should begin to fade after three days.
However, some areas may take longer than others to fade, depending on where the most amount of product was applied.
The smell is typically strong for the first few hours immediately following application, but will gradually start to diminish in strength over time.
After about 3–4 days, most people start noticing that there is barely a smell at all coming from their skin anymore.
Some people report smelling the spray tan when they sweat or are exposed to warm temperatures due to increased evaporation of the product from their skin pores; however, this usually isn’t very noticeable unless they were heavily scented with fragrances while having their spray tan done.
How to stop your spray tan from rubbing off on to your clothes?
The best way to prevent your spray tan from rubbing off on to your clothes is to apply body lotion and self tanner directly after a spray tan.
This will help lock in the color, making it last longer. When applying body lotion, start with a small amount and spread evenly over the skin before putting on clothes.
If you want an extra layer of protection, use self tanners designed specifically for this purpose.
These will act as additional barriers against rub-off while allowing your tan to deepen and darken nicely.
To get the most out of any self-tanner, try exfoliating first so that the product can penetrate more deeply into the skin and take effect quicker.
Finally, make sure you let your tan dry completely before getting dressed, and keep in mind that darker fabrics are more likely to show any transfer than lighter colored ones.
Getting rid of spray tan and fake tan smell can be a tricky process, and the results will vary from person to person.
The first step is to lower the amount of DHA in the spray tan solution that you are using – many salon quality solutions have reduced levels of lower DHA, so make sure you ask your technician what products they use before applying them.
The next step is to take measures that will help ensure you don’t amplify any existing odors.
Be conscious about what kind of clothing and fabrics you put on afterward, as these can trap in any smelly particles or sweat, exacerbating the problem.
Also it’s important to keep yourself cool and dry – try not risking sitting near a heater or other hot sources if possible and avoid taking hot showers after application as these could reactivate the chemicals causing more scenting agents produced from body chemistry.
If all else fails, there is one final way to get rid of the spray tan smell – baby powder.
After application, lightly dust some on your skin followed by a light patting with a clean cloth will absorb any extra oils left behind and neutralize any residual aroma lingering in your pores.
Hi, my name is Gemma, and I’m the owner of MakeupMuddle.com. I’m a true beauty obsessive, and love writing about anything to do with beauty – I have been a beauty writer since 2012.