Summary
Spray tanning is a professional method that uses DHA tan solutions to temporarily darken the skin. Applied either by a technician or in automated spray booths like those available at The Tanning Shop Ireland, spray tans deliver an instant, streak-free tan that fully develops in 6-8 hours and lasts around 5-7 days.
This complete spray tanning guide covers everything you need to know about spray tans, including how they work, what to expect, and where to find the best spray tan in Dublin.
If you love the feeling of a sun-kissed glow, a professional spray tan could be exactly what you’re looking for. In Ireland, sunshine can often be in short supply, so spray tanning offers the perfect way to achieve a natural-looking bronze all year round.
At The Tanning Shop Ireland, our advanced automated spray tanning booths deliver an even, streak-free glow that develops in a matter of hours, leaving you with a flawless head-to-toe tan without the wait.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about spray tanning in Ireland. From what a spray tan is and how it works to how long appointments take and how long results last, you’ll find all the expert tips you need to book your glow with confidence.
Spray Tanning: Quick Guide for Beginners
Only got a minute? Check out our quick spray tanning guide for simple answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| What is a spray tan? | A sunless tanning treatment where a fine mist containing DHA is applied to the skin to create a natural-looking tan. |
| How long does a spray tan last? | Typically 5–7 days, depending on skin type and aftercare. |
| How long does a spray tan appointment take? | Around 10–15 minutes in total, including consultation, prep, and dressing time. |
| When can you shower after a spray tan? | Usually 6–8 hours after application, once the colour has developed. |
| Where can I get a spray tan in Dublin? | At professional spray tanning salons such as The Tanning Shop locations in Dundrum, Tallaght, and Greystones. |
What is Spray Tanning?
Spray tanning is a popular sunless tanning treatment that uses a fine mist of tan solution containing DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to create a temporary bronzed glow. The solution reacts with the outer layer of skin to develop into an even, streak-free tan that typically lasts around 5-7 days.
What Makes Spray Tanning Different to UV Tanning?
Aside from both methods taking place in professional tanning salons, there are very few similarities between UV tanning and spray tanning.
Spray tans use a misted liquid solution that reacts with the outermost layer of your skin to create a tanned effect. The solution develops over several hours to reveal temporary colour with no skin damage.
UV tanning uses controlled doses of UVA and UVB light that mimic sunlight exposure to stimulate the skin’s natural melanin production. At The Tanning Shop Ireland, we use industry-regulated lay-down and stand-up sunbeds with pre-set timers and expert guidance to ensure responsible exposure.
Why Customers Choose Spray Tanning
Sometimes, nothing compares to that just-sprayed feeling. Here are some key spray tan benefits that keep our customers coming back.
- Instant colour – ideal for a quick confidence boost or last-minute glow before an event
- Even coverage – our automated booths use multiple nozzles and pre-set spray patterns for flawless results
- Private sessions – no technician required, our automatic tanning booths are completely private
- Customisable shades – with multiple solutions to choose from, we’ll help you find the perfect colour for your skin tone and tanning goals
- No UV exposure – spray tans are a sun-free alternative to UV exposure, particularly suited to fairer or more sensitive skin types
How Spray Tans Work
Spray tanning relies on a chemical reaction between specially formulated tanning solutions and your skin to create a short-term bronze. Here’s how it works.
Step 1: Spray Tan Solutions
Spray tan solutions are formulated with something called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This natural, sugar-derived compound reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin, temporarily darkening the skin’s surface to create the appearance of a natural tan.
DHA comes in different strengths to deliver deeper results, from low-percentage formulas for a light, sun-kissed glow to more concentrated solutions for darker tans.
Step 2: Automated Application
Application is effortless. At The Tanning Shop’s Irish salons, we use automated tanning booths to deliver flawless, 360-degree coverage. Fast, convenient, and completely private, our booths use multiple nozzles to spray solutions evenly across the body.
The booths also feature helpful diagrams and voice instructions so you know when to change position. Don’t worry if you’re new to automated spray tanning – a friendly consultant will guide you through the full process before leaving you to your private session.
Step 3: Colour Development
Our tan solutions dry extremely quickly, but you still need to allow the DHA time to develop. You’ll notice an immediate bronzed look to your skin – this is the colour guide which will wash away when you first shower. Your tan develops underneath the colour guide in the hours after your spray. We recommend leaving at least 6-8 hours before taking a shower to ensure your tan has fully developed.
What Happens During a Spray Tan Appointment
If it’s your first time booking a professional spray tan in Dublin, here’s what to expect during your visit to The Tanning Shop.
Consultation and Shade Selection
When you arrive, your consultant will discuss everything you need to know about your session. They’ll chat with you about your skin type and desired results to help find the ideal shade solution for you. Our premium Norvell® tan solutions are specially formulated to match natural skin tones and fade evenly, so you can enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking glow.
Inside the Booth
Your consultant will show you to your private room and demonstrate how to use the automated tanning booth. You’ll then be left to get ready in private. Apply barrier cream to your elbows, knees, hands, and feet and put on the complementary hair net and sticky feet. Then, simply step into the booth and follow the voice-guided instructions.
How Long a Spray Tan Appointment Takes
Our automated booths provide a fully-body tan in as little as 15 minutes, including prep, spray, and drying time. The booths are gently heated to encourage faster drying time, so there’s no need to wait before dressing. Once the spray cycle is complete, simply step out of the booth and dress straight away. We recommend wearing dark, loose-fitting clothing to prevent colour transfer while your tan develops.
How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?
Most professional spray tans last around 5–7 days, although some can last up to 10 days, depending on skin type and aftercare. Your tan’s longevity is also affected by:
- Natural skin type and turnover – some people’s skin naturally sheds cells faster, which speeds up colour fade
- Physical activity – frequent exercise that results in sweating can cause tan to break down more quickly
- Water and chlorine exposure – swimming pools, hot tubs, and long, hot showers or baths can accelerate tan fade
- Skincare – following correct skin prep – including shaving and exfoliating 24 hours before your appointment – and keeping skin hydrated afterwards can help extend the life of your tan
Spray Tan Results Timeline
Getting a spray tan is a quick way to achieve a sun-kissed glow, with professional solutions developing in 6-8 hours and results gradually fading after around five days. To better understand how your colour develops and fades, here’s a typical spray tan timeline.
| Time After Spray Tan | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Immediately after application | A guide colour appears to show where the solution has been applied. |
| 6–8 hours | The DHA solution reacts with the outer layer of skin, and your tan begins to develop. |
| Day 1–3 | Your tan is at its deepest, most even colour. |
| Day 4-5 | The tan begins to fade slightly but remains natural-looking. |
| Day 5-7 | Colour gradually fades as the skin naturally exfoliates. |
Choosing the Right Spray Tan Shade
We often get asked, ‘What’s the best spray tan solution?’ The answer depends on your natural skin tone and the depth of colour you want to achieve. At The Tanning Shop, we use globally-loved Norvell® spray tan solutions, created to complement natural skin tones.
- Norvell® Dark – your go-to for a rich, sun-kissed glow that enhances natural colour, adds noticeable depth, and builds beautifully
- Norvell® Clear – a bronzer-free formula for invisible application that develops into a natural-looking tan
Your consultant will walk you through the available options and recommend the ideal shade for you. Want more from your session? Add WellFit skincare products to your spray routine for the ultimate glow.
Who Should Consider Spray Tanning?
Spray tanning is a popular option amongst many customers at The Tanning Shop. It’s ideal for:
- First-time tanners or those with fair or sensitive skin
- Special events such as weddings, parties, or holidays
- Customers looking for a quick, even glow
- Those who prefer a sunless tanning option
The great thing about spray tanning is that it’s suited to virtually everyone. No matter your skin type or tone, we’ve got the ideal solution to boost your glow naturally, with no UV or sun exposure required.
Spray Tan Tips for Best Results
We all want that salon glow to last as long as possible. Follow our helpful tips to ensure the best for your spray tan before and after your appointment.
Before Your Appointment
- Exfoliate and shave or wax at least 24 hours beforehand
- Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated and avoid patchiness
- Don’t wear makeup, lotion, deodorant, or perfume on the day
Read our complete spray tan prep guide for in-depth advice on what to do before a spray tan.
After Your Spray Tan
- Dress in dark, loose clothing
- Avoid showering or getting wet for up to 8 hours
- Use an oil-free moisturiser or tan extender to maintain your results
Where to Get a Spray Tan in Dublin
If you’re on the hunt for the best spray tan in Dublin or Wicklow, then visit The Tanning Shop near you. Our Tallaght and Dundrum salons offer premium spray tanning services in South Dublin, or for our County Wicklow customers, visit the Greystones store. All locations feature state-of-the-art automated booths, promising flawless, streak-free results with ease and privacy.
Ready to experience the best spray tan in Ireland? Find your nearest Tanning Shop here.
Spray Tan FAQs
Will My Spray Tan Look Orange?
No. Our professional Norvell® tan solutions have intelligent colour technology that prevent orange tones from forming, keeping tanning results looking natural.
Is Spray Tanning Better than Sunbeds?
The best tan for you is down to personal preference. For a fast-developing tan without UV exposure, spray tanning is the ideal option. Visit The Tanning Shop Ireland to speak with a consultant about the tanning option that best suits you.
How Often Can You Get a Spray Tan?
While there are no safety risks associated with frequent tanning, we recommend leaving between seven and fourteen days between sessions. This allows your skin enough time to prepare for the next session without product build-up.
What Should You Avoid After Getting a Spray Tan?
Immediately after your appointment, avoid tight clothing and getting wet until your tan has fully developed. For long-lasting results, we recommend avoiding exfoliation, harsh soaps, active skincare ingredients, and oil-based lotions for about 5 days after your session. You should also minimise prolonged exposure to water or excessive sweating, as these can speed up colour fade.
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