You’ve got a weekend getaway, a wedding RSVP, or that breezy linen dress you’ve been dying to wear — and now you’re wondering how to get the perfect sun-kissed glow without looking orange or patchy. Should you book a professional spray tan or squeeze in a session at the tanning salon? Welcome to the eternal beauty debate: spray tan vs tanning bed. Let’s break it down so you can choose a safe, chic bronzed look that fits your life, skin, and style.
Quick Overview: What Are Spray Tans and Tanning Beds?
Spray tan (also called airbrush tanning or sunless tanning) uses DHA-based solutions to create an instant bronzed appearance without UV exposure. It’s a chemical reaction on the skin’s surface that fades over several days to weeks.
Tanning beds expose your skin to UV rays (UVA and sometimes UVB) to darken melanin naturally. Results can vary depending on skin type, bed type, and frequency.
Spray Tan vs Tanning Bed: Pros and Cons
Spray Tan Pros
- Immediate, controllable color with professional color-matching.
- No UV exposure — safer for long-term skin health and anti-aging.
- Customizable finish: dewy, matte, or medium-to-deep bronze.
- Great for special events when you need predictable results.
Spray Tan Cons
- Requires pre-appointment prep (exfoliation, no lotions) and aftercare (moisturizing, no long baths initially).
- Can fade unevenly if not maintained or if you sweat heavily.
- Potential for temporary odor or slight discoloration on clothes if not fully dry.
Tanning Bed Pros
- Builds a natural tan over time for those who prefer UV-induced color.
- Can be convenient if you already have a controlled salon routine.
Tanning Bed Cons
- UV exposure increases aging, wrinkles, sunspots, and skin cancer risk.
- Harder to control exact shade; results depend on skin type and genetics.
- Overuse can lead to uneven or orange-toned results and long-term damage.
Safety & Skin Health: What Dermatologists Say
Most dermatologists recommend sunless tanning (spray tan, bronzing lotion, mousse) over UV tanning when the goal is cosmetic color alone. Indoor tanning beds expose your skin to high doses of UVA/UVB radiation, which accelerates photoaging and raises the risk of skin cancers. If you’re concerned about pigmentation, premature aging, or have a family history of skin cancer, the safer option is a professional spray tan or a quality self-tanner.
Longevity & Maintenance: Keeping Your Glow
Want your tan to look fresh for as long as possible? Here’s how each method fares and how to maintain results.
Spray Tan Longevity
- Lasts 5–14 days depending on formula and skin prep.
- Exfoliate gently before appointment; avoid heavy moisturizers and deodorants that can block absorption.
- Aftercare: hydrate daily with a tan-friendly moisturizer, avoid chlorinated pools early, and use a gentle body scrub to fade evenly.
Tanning Bed Longevity
- Tans build cumulatively and can last until skin naturally peels or fades; requires repeat sessions to maintain.
- Risk of burning if exposure isn’t carefully managed; always follow salon guidelines for skin type.
How to Prep & Aftercare: Skincare Routines for Both Options
Prepping is key. Here are step-by-step routines so your tan — whether spray or natural — looks flawless and lasts.
Pre-Spray Tan Routine
- 48 hours before: exfoliate with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant to remove dry skin.
- Avoid shaving or waxing the day of the appointment to prevent open pores.
- Do not apply deodorant, perfume, lotions, or makeup right before your session.
Post-Spray Tan Aftercare
- Stay dry for the recommended setting time (usually 6–8 hours).
- Use sulfate-free cleansers and moisturizing creams to prolong color.
- Pat skin dry instead of rubbing to reduce patchiness.
Pre- and Post-Tanning Bed Tips
- Consult a professional about safe exposure times tailored to your skin type.
- Always wear protective eyewear and consider using SPF on face if recommended; some salons offer facial tanners instead of full UV exposure.
Outfit, Makeup & Fashion Tips: Matching Your Tan to Your Look
A great tan should complement your wardrobe and makeup, not overpower it. Here are tricks for styling your bronzed skin.
Outfit Combinations
- For a fresh, sun-kissed look: pair a spray tan with white linens or pastels — they pop against bronzed skin.
- Deeper, natural tans pair beautifully with jewel tones (emerald, deep teal) and black for evening looks.
- For a cheeky summer vibe: denim cutoffs + a neutral bikini top and layered gold jewelry.
Makeup Suggestions
- Go for warm bronzer and a peachy blush to blend your face with body tone — avoid heavy orange-toned bronzers.
- Highlight the high points (cheekbones, nose bridge) for a sunlit glow; cream products help create a natural finish.
- Neutral eyeshadows and glossy lips keep the focus on your healthy skin tone.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want a safer, customizable, event-ready bronze with predictable results, a spray tan or self-tanning solution is generally the better bet. If you prefer a natural tanning process and accept the long-term risks and maintenance, tanning beds can provide an evolving tan — but with documented skin health trade-offs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a spray tan safer than a tanning bed?
Yes. Spray tans (sunless tanning) do not involve UV radiation and are considered safer for long-term skin health compared with indoor tanning beds, which increase risks of premature aging and skin cancer.
2. How long does a spray tan last?
Most professional spray tans last about 5–14 days depending on skin type, preparation, and aftercare. Moisturizing and gentle exfoliation help extend even fading.
3. Can I go to a tanning bed after getting a spray tan?
It’s not recommended to use a tanning bed immediately after a spray tan; UV exposure can cause the spray tan to oxidize or fade unevenly. Wait until the bronzer has fully faded and your skin is back to its normal state.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Choosing between spray tan vs tanning bed comes down to your priorities: immediate, safer, customizable glow vs. cumulative natural tanning with higher health risks. Personally, I reach for a professional spray tan or a curated self-tanner for events and vacations — it’s predictable, quick, and kinder to my skin long-term. Ready to glow without the worry? Try booking a trial spray tan and experiment with warm, wardrobe-friendly looks. For more daily routines and beauty how-tos, check out our skincare tips and latest makeup trends, or browse our fashion guides for outfit inspiration.
