How Often Should You Tan? A Complete Guide to Safe, Healthy, and Long-Lasting Color

Whether you're preparing for a vacation, a special event, or you simply love having a golden glow year-round, one of the most common questions is: “How often should I tan?”

The answer depends on your skin type, your tanning method, and your glow goals. Over-tanning can damage your skin — but smart, professionally guided tanning helps you achieve a gorgeous, even glow safely and consistently.

This complete guide explains how often you should tan, how to maintain your color, how to avoid mistakes, and why professional salons offer better, safer results.

How Often Should You Tan? (By Method)

Different tanning methods require different schedules. Here’s a breakdown:

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✔ Spray Tanning (Most Popular & Safest)

Recommended frequency:✨ Every 7–10 days

Spray tans gradually fade as your skin naturally exfoliates. Weekly or bi-weekly sessions keep color looking fresh — without UV exposure.

Learn why spray tans are the safest, most reliable method:

👉 Why a Spray Tan Might Be Your New Favorite Self-Care Ritual

✔ Indoor Tanning (UV Bed Tanning)

Recommended frequency:✨ 1–3 sessions per week during building phase✨ 1 session per week for maintaining color

Consistency is key — but so is moderation. Professional salons guide you based on your skin type to prevent overexposure.

See why expert guidance matters:

👉 The Benefits of Professional Tanning

✔ Sunless Tanning (Lotions, Mousses, Drops)

Recommended frequency:✨ Every 3–5 days

This depends on:

• How the product fades

• Your prep routine

• Your moisturizer type

• Whether you exercise or swim

DIY options fade faster and streak more easily — especially without skin prep.

Learn proper prep:

👉 How to Prepare Your Skin for a Perfect Tan

Factors That Affect How Often You Should Tan

✔ Your Skin Type

Fair skin needs slower buildup. Darker skin can maintain color longer.

✔ Your Daily Routine

Frequent showers, hot water, or workouts fade tans faster.

✔ Your Moisturizer

Oil-free moisturizers extend your glow.

Learn how to keep your tan longer:

👉 How to Maintain Your Tan for Longer and Keep Your Skin Healthy

✔ Your Tanning Prep

Bad prep = fast fading.Good prep = a long-lasting, even tan.

Bad prep often leads to:

• Streaks

• Orange tones

• Patchiness

Why DIY fails:

👉 The Truth About DIY Tanning — Why Your Glow Might Be Doing More Harm Than Good

How to Make Your Tan Last Longer (Regardless of Method)

✔ Moisturize twice daily

✔ Pat dry after showers

✔ Avoid oily products

✔ Use sulfate-free body wash

✔ Avoid long baths

✔ Drink more water

Stronger long-term strategies here:

👉 Secret to a Beautiful Tan All Year Long Without the Sun

How to Build a Safe Tanning Routine

✔ Start gradually

✔ Never tan daily

✔ Avoid mixing DIY and pro tans without guidance

✔ Get professional shade recommendations

✔ Avoid the “too dark, too fast” trap

Avoid costly tanning mistakes:

👉 Why Choosing the Right Tanning Method Is a Skincare Decision

FAQs

1. How many times a week is it safe to tan?

1–3 times, depending on method and skin type.

2. Can I tan every day?

No — daily tanning damages the skin and causes uneven fading.

3. How long should I wait between spray tans?

7–10 days is ideal.

4. What fades a tan quickly?

Hot showers, harsh soaps, sweating, exfoliating, and chlorine.

5. Should I moisturize before tanning?

Yes — but avoid oily products.

6. How long should a healthy tan last?

5–10 days depending on prep and aftercare.

7. Is professional tanning safer than DIY?

Yes — DIY mistakes often lead to streaks, buildup, and skin irritation.

Build Your Safest, Most Beautiful Glow at Tan by the Sea

Whether you want a weekly glow or a vacation-perfect tan, our tanning experts can create a personalized plan for your skin.