Express spray tan vs. 8-hour tanning solution: Which one should you choose?

Spray tans have come a long way over the years - you’ll often see two types of tanning solutions available: express spray tan solutions and the more traditional 8-hour tan solutions. But, what’s the difference between the two, and which one is best for you?

The 8-hour tan solution

The 8-hour tan is the classic choice - it’s been around the longest and is often what people think of when they book a spray tan.

How it works:

• After your tan is applied, you’ll need to keep the solution on your skin for 8 hours before rinsing off.

• During this time, the DHA (the active tanning ingredient) develops and reacts with the amino acids in your skin to create a natural-looking glow.

• It often comes in different gradients of 6%, 8%, 10%, 12%, 14%, 16% and 20% - (this may differ in EU countries) or light, medium, dark or ultra dark.

• Give it 48 hours for the tan to settle and your skin to adjust. Once you have your second shower, the bronzers in the guide colour will fully rinsed off.

  
  

The express spray tan solution

Express solutions are designed for modern life - perfect if you want a tan without the long wait.

How it works:

• You can rinse after 1–4+ hours, depending on how deep you want your tan.

• Express doesn't mean you'll have an instant tan - it just means you can get on with your day sooner. The tan will continue to develop underneath the skin after you’ve showered.

• It can take 24 hours to fully develop

• It can take up to 48 hours for your skin to adjust. Once you've had your second shower from application, the bronzers will be fully rinsed off and the tan will settle.

Do they last the same amount of time?

Yes - both the express and the 8-hour spray tan solutions can last around 7–10 days on average. This can also depend on your skin type, (mature, dehydrated etc ... ) skincare routine, and how well you prep and maintain your tan. The difference is in the processing time, not the longevity. For best results, you can read more on pre-tan preparation and aftercare here.

Which should you choose?

• Pick an 8-hour tan if you’re happy to let your colour develop overnight, or if you’re new to tanning and want the reassurance of the classic method.

• Go for an express tan if you’re busy, want flexibility, or need a last-minute glow for an event.

Both will give you the same beautiful, golden results - it’s really about what works best for your lifestyle and schedule.

I'm getting married and would like a spray tan for my wedding day, which solution will be best for me?

This will depend on a number of things ... whether you're new to spray tanning, your natural skin undertones, when your wedding day is, what colour you're wearing and a number of other questions. For brides, I offer a trial service where we do an in-depth consultation, and a number of trials so we can match the right solution to your skin tone. You can read more about bridal tans here. For the bridal spray tan package, visit here.

At Halo, I offer both options and a variety of brands with different undertones so we can choose what suits you best. Whether you’re after an effortless glow for the weekend, a deep holiday bronzed look, or a glow-up for a big event, I’ll guide you to the perfect solution.

Olivia has be running Halo - House of Beauty for 8 years and has spray tanned thousands of clients for every occasion across London. She is renowned for her warm presence making you feel instantly relaxed, her knowledge and expertise of different spray tan products, undertones and the skin, her attention to detail and her unique technique which she blends with flare and an artistic streak.

Book here