Why Does Your Spray Tan Look Orange?

November 21, 2022
A pile of sliced oranges on a table.

Spray tans offer limitless benefits. First, if exposure to UV is your main concern, a spray tan is a great way to get a bronzed look. Additionally, spray tanning is a quick process, which makes it ideal for those who want a quick fix. And the color is customizable to your liking.



However, the quality of your results mainly depends on the technician's skills and the products they use. One thing that could go wrong is an orange spray tan. Discover the causes of an orange spray tan and how to avoid this issue.


Not Exfoliating Beforehand


Exfoliating aims to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. This step is critical for any skincare routine, but it's even more crucial before getting a spray tan.


If you don't exfoliate, the dead skin cells can create a barrier between the bronzing solution and your skin. As a result, the color will be less intense and could turn out patchy or orange. To avoid this problem, use a gentle exfoliator the day before your spray tan appointment.


Not Moisturizing Your Skin


Like exfoliation, moisturization is essential to prep your skin for a spray tan. In addition, moisturizing helps to hydrate the skin and make it more receptive to the tan solution.


If you don't moisturize before spray tanning, your skin will not absorb the solution as evenly. This issue can cause the tan to look patchy, streaky, or orange.


Not Choosing the Right Color


When you get a spray tan, the technician will ask you what color you want. The perfect color depends on your skin tone and the look you're going for.


If you want a natural-looking tan, choose a shade one or two shades darker than your skin tone. You can go three or four shades darker if you want a more dramatic look. However, be careful not to choose a color that's too dark for your skin tone. This mistake can cause your spray tan to look orange.


Not Waiting to Shower


After your spray tan, you are advised to not shower for at least four hours. This waiting period is crucial because it allows the DHA in the tan solution to set and develop on your skin.


When you do shower, use a gentle soap, and don't scrub too hard. Also, when drying your skin, pat it dry with a towel instead of rubbing it. And be careful with the type of oil you apply after a shower. If you can, use baby oil.


Not Checking Product Saturation


Less is more when it comes to tanning spray. If you spray too much, the DHA in the solution can build up on your skin and cause your tan to look orange.


Oversaturation happens when the technician uses a gun that lets out too much product or if the specialist does too many heavy passes over the same area.


Spraying very dark solutions can also cause an orange tan. For instance, if you go for a very dark color and the technician doesn't blend it properly, you may have an unnatural-looking orange tan.


The secret to avoiding an orange tan is to go for a pre-consultation. During this session, the technician will assess your skin tone and recommend the ideal color for your spray tan. Most importantly, choose a reputable and experienced technician to avoid any oversights.


You can trust us at Tan Your Hide to provide you with a beautiful and natural-looking spray tan. Our experienced technicians will help you choose the right color and ensure your tan looks flawless. In addition, we will offer advice and recommendations to ensure your tan lasts longer and fades evenly. Contact us or check our website for more details.

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