If you’re short on time but still want that beautiful, sun-kissed skin tone, a rapid spray tan is the solution. A rapid spray tan is a type of sunless tanning solution that allows you to rinse off much faster than a regular spray tan, typically in 1 to 4 hours, compared to 8 to 12 hours.
In This Article, We’ll Cover the following:
- How does it work
- Comparison between rapid and regular spray tan
- What’s the benefit of it
- How to prepare yourself before a tan
- What to expect during and after this session
- Common mistakes to avoid
How Does a Rapid Spray Tan Work?
Simply, it works faster than the regular one, and this rapid spray tan can be applied as a spray-on tan more quickly. This solution contains more dihydroxyacetone (DHA), allowing people to wash it off faster, typically within one to four hours, compared to a regular spray tan.
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is the main ingredient in most spray tans that don’t use sunlight. The amino acids in the top layer of your skin react with DHA to change the color of your skin. This is like getting a tan without going out in the sun.
Curious about DHA? Here’s the full guide on what DHA is in spray Tans. Learn from here what you need to know about it. For a regular spray tan, you may need to wait 8 to 12 hours, or even longer, for the solution to fully dry.
The formula in a rapid spray tan is designed to wash off more quickly. Depending on the brand and strength, you can rinse it off as little as one to four hours after applying it.
To Break It Down, Here It Is:
- Like a regular spray tan, this solution is also sprayed on your skin.
- The reaction happens faster in a rapid solution because it has a higher percentage of DHA and other ingredients that “speed up” the process.
- Your stylist or artist will instruct you on how long to wait before rinsing off the bronzer (temporary color guide). Over the next few hours, the color will continue to develop.
- The final color may not appear immediately; it can still take up to 24 hours for the entire process to complete.
- And that’s it! Rapid spray tans give you the same result (a nice tan) but in less time.
Find out what the best spray tan solution is for your skin tone to achieve a smooth, glowing complexion.
Rapid Vs Regular Spray Tan
Actually, which one is better? It really depends on your needs. The situation when you are using tan. For beginners or those looking to relax, a regular spray tan is a suitable option.
On the other hand, if you have a busy schedule, a rapid spray tan could be ideal for you if you are looking for a fast solution. Look at the comparison table to understand better:
| Feature | Rapid Spray Tan | Regular Spray Tan |
| Rinse Time | It takes 1–4 hours after application. | It takes longer, like 8–12 hours, after application |
| Development Time | Fully develops needs in 24 hours | Also, it fully develops in 24 hours. Same here |
| How does it work | The longer you leave it on, the darker the tan | The color develops over the long waiting period |
| DHA Level | Higher, for faster results. | Standard, gradual color, average result. |
| Best For | Busy schedules, daytime tanners. | Overnight, first-timers. |
| Shade Control | It adjusts by when you rinse (darker = longer wait) | This one has pre-selected shade options |
| Risks | Overdevelopment/orange if left on too long | Very predictable/stable result |
| Convenience & Flexibility | High, flexible rinse timing | Lower and requires longer wait means “set and wait” |
What’s the Benefit of a Rapid Spray Tan
The core and main benefits of a rapid spray tan are the fast and reliable results. This is flexible, ideal for a busy schedule, reduces the risk, and more. Choosing a rapid spray tan near me in Arizona comes with several benefits:
- Better turnaround time. You can rinse and be ready to go right away, not overnight.
- It’s easier for people with busy schedules. Great for events, vacations, or last-minute plans.
- No stress or mess up before the event. You can get dressed faster and worry less about bronzer stains because you can rinse them off more quickly.
- A lot of flexibility. If you adjust the rinse time of specific solutions, you can control the intensity of your tan, ranging from light to dark.
- The effects last about as long as regular tans. A rapid tan should last as long as a regular one if it is properly prepared and cared for.
Learn more about the process and benefits of a spray tan.
How to Prepare for a Rapid Spray Tan
To prepare for a rapid spray tan, exfoliate and shave 8–24 hours in advance. Arrive with clean, dry skin free of products, and wear loose, dark-colored clothing to prevent smudges or uneven color. Here’s in-details about how you prep:
Exfoliate a day before. To make sure the tan applies evenly, gently scrub your skin to remove dead skin cells.
Shave or wax 24 hours before. Don’t do these things right before getting a tan.
Avoid using moisturizers, heavy creams, or perfumes during the day. These can get in the way and make your tan uneven
To look good, wear loose-fitting clothes. If you wear tight clothes, the wet solution might come off, or tan lines might show up.
Talk about your goals. The medical professional will tell you how long to rinse based on whether you want a light glow, a medium glow, or a deep bronze.
Know the rinse instructions. For quick fixes in particular, there is a set amount of time to rinse after. Make sure you know when to rinse.
What to Expect During and After Your Session
During a rapid spray tan, the tanning specialist evenly applies the solution, and you rinse after the set time. Avoid water, sweat, or soap until after rinsing, then moisturize to maintain your glow.
During The Session:
- You’ll change into something comfortable or use disposable underwear, which is usually provided by the salon, during the session.
- The specialist will usually spray you іn a booth, making sure that any open areas, such as your wrists, ankles, and sides, are well covered.
- The answer might have a bronzer іn іt that gives you a color guide right away.
- If it’s a quick solution, you’ll wait the given amount of time before rinsing. If it’s a regular solution, you’ll have to wait longer.
After Getting Sprayed:
- You should wait to get wet or sweaty until after you rinse. You still want the tan to set properly, even if the recommended time is shorter and rapid.
- In order tо get a tan quickly, you usually just use warm water to shower when rinsing. You don’t use soap, scrub, creams, shampoo, etc., right away.
- The color may still deepen over the next few hours (or up to 24 hours) after being rinsed. It’s okay іf you don’t see your full glow right away.
- After you wash off the tan and let it dry, be gentle with your skin. Use moisturizer regularly and avoid long baths and rough scrubs. These keep the tan going longer.
Pro Tip: For the best experience, visit SugarWaxHaven, a trusted place for spray tan services and expert skin preparation tips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with a Rapid Spray Tan
While using a rapid spray tan, try to avoid these types of common mistakes:
- Rinsing too early or too late.
- Not prepping skin properly.
- Getting wet or sweaty too early.
- Misunderstanding the development time.
- Choosing the wrong shade/tone.
- Failing to moisturise afterwards.
FAQs
Can You Get a Rapid Spray Tan While Pregnant?
Yes, you can by using safe DHA-based, non-toxic solutions for rapid spray tans. But it’s safe to take advice from healthcare consultants. Most experts recommend using protective gear, such as a nose filter or mask, especially to minimize inhalation during the spray process. Also, they recommend avoiding spray tanning during the first trimester for extra caution.
Does a Rapid Spray Tan Smell Or Stain Clothes?
Yes, it has a mild scent. But in the modern rapid spray, the odor can be reduced. And it can stain clothes, especially before the first rinse. Also, it washes out of most fabrics. Once rinsed, your tan should not stain fabrics or have a strong smell. Find out what to wear to a spray tan.
How Long Does a Rapid Spray Tan Take To Develop?
It depends on the color you desire, with shorter times of 1 to 4 hours for lighter colors and 4 to 8 hours for deeper colors. It can be rinsed off in 1 to 4 hours, depending on the depth of the color. Note that it will continue to develop for up to 24 hours after rinsing. After rinsing with water, the final color will appear gradually.
What Is a Rapid Airbrush Tan?
A rapid airbrush tan is a customized, hand-applied version of a rapid spray tan. Instead of using a booth, a technician or tanning artist uses an airbrush gun to apply the rapid-developing formula evenly. This gives more precise coverage, faster rinse time, and a natural, streak-free finish. At the same time, take the same amount of time as per the rapid tan.
How Long Does a Rapid Spray Tan Last?
A rapid spray tan typically lasts 5 to 10 days, just like a traditional spray tan. But these also depend on your skin type, preparation, and aftercare. So proper maintenance can extend the tan’s life.
Final Word: Is a Rapid Spray Tan for You?
Rapid spray tan is a quick solution for actresses or those who need a fast glow for an event. Then a spray tan is a smart choice. On the other hand, you have time and try tan as a beginner rather than going with the traditional one.
Simply choose according to the schedule and your comfort level. Try to find a reputable salon that uses high-quality solutions, whos provides accurate rinse and after-care instructions, and matches the tone correctly. If you are confused about choosing a salon for a rapid spray tan or waxing near Arizona. Check our comprehensive guide on selecting the ideal salon for you.