Achieving a sun-kissed glow without the risks of UV exposure is easier than ever, thanks to self-tanning products and professional spray tans. But which method is best for your lifestyle, budget, and skin goals? Let’s break down the key differences between self-tanning and spray tanning - application, benefits, time investment, and cost to help you decide.
Application: How Do They Work?
Self-Tanning:
Self-tanning products are designed for at-home use. You simply apply the product to clean, exfoliated skin using your hands or a tanning mitt, blending evenly to avoid streaks. Most formulas develop over several hours and can be washed off after a set period, revealing a gradual, natural-looking tan. Visit our guide on how to apply a gradual self-tanning lotion to achieve the perfect glow.
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Exfoliate, dry off, then sweep on a mousse, lotion, mist, or drops with a tanning mitt.
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A tint (called a guide colour) lets you see where you’ve been; depth develops fully in one to five hours, or gradually over a day or two with “slow-glow” formulas.
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Tutorials in the Three Warriors Tan School make the learning curve short, especially for tricky zones like hands and ankles.
Spray Tanning:
Spray tans are applied by a professional technician in a salon. The technician uses a spray gun to mist a tanning solution over your body, ensuring even coverage, especially in hard-to-reach areas like your back. The process is quick, and you’ll see immediate results that continue to develop over the next 6-8 hours. If you’re worried about hidden parabens, synthetic scent, or harsh preservatives in conventional spray tans, have a look at our organic spray tan solution without the ‘nasties’.
Benefits: What’s in It for You?
Self-Tanning Benefits
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Affordability: Self-tanners are much cheaper per use than salon spray tans. A single gradual tan bottle can provide 6–10 full-body applications, making it a cost-effective way to maintain a tan.
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Privacy and Convenience: You can self-tan at home, on your own schedule, without needing to travel.
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Customisation: Choose from different shades and formulas to tailor your tan to your skin tone and desired intensity. From self-tanning mousse, which delivers an instant and natural-looking colour, to self-tan mist, which is an ideal way to build a tan gradually and use daily.
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Ingredient Control: Three Warriors self-tanning formulas are certified organic, vegan, and toxic-free
Spray Tanning Benefits
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Professional Results: Trained technicians ensure even, streak-free coverage and can contour your tan for a natural look.
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Immediate Results: You’ll see instant colour, which continues to deepen over the next few hours - perfect for special occasions.
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No Learning Curve: No need to worry about applying the product yourself - just relax and let the spray-tan artist handle it.
Time: How Long Does Each Method Take?
Self-Tanning
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Application Time: 10-20 minutes at home, depending on the product and your experience level.
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Development Time: Most self-tanners like our self-tanning mousse take 1–5 hours to develop fully. Other self-tanners like our gradual tan and body tan mist will build your tan gradually, achieving a natural look in one to two days, depending on how often you apply them and your desired colour.
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Maintenance: Reapplication is needed every 5–7 days to maintain your tan.
Spray Tanning
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Salon Time: 15–30 minutes for the actual application, plus travel time to and from the salon.
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Development Time: Immediate colour, with full development in 8–12 hours.
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Maintenance: Tan will fade after 7 days, so rebooking an appointment is necessary to keep the glow.
Cost: What’s the Price Difference?
Self-tanners are significantly more budget-friendly, especially if you want to maintain a tan year-round. Spray tans are ideal for special occasions or if you want professional results without the hassle of DIY application.
Which Should You Choose?
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Choose Self-Tanning If: You want to save money, tan at home, and enjoy more privacy and flexibility. It’s perfect for maintaining a glow year-round.
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Choose Spray Tanning If: You want flawless, professional results for a special event or holiday, and don’t mind the higher cost and salon visits.
Both methods offer a safe, sun-free way to achieve a beautiful tan. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how much control you want over your tanning routine.
Ready to glow? Explore Three Warriors’ range of natural, nourishing self-tanners for a radiant, healthy-looking tan at home!
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