How Long Should You Leave Self Tan On?

Development time is the simplest way to control how deep your tan looks. The same formula can give a soft, natural glow or a rich bronze depending only on how long you leave it.

A simple guide to development

• 1–2 hours: a light, subtle glow for everyday wear.
• 3–4 hours: a medium, natural-looking colour.
• 6–8 hours or overnight: a deeper, more dramatic bronze.

Your first rinse

Rinse with lukewarm water only, no soap or shower gel, until the water runs clear. The colour continues to deepen for up to 24 hours after that first rinse, so judge the result the next day rather than straight away.

Choosing your depth

If you are new to self tan, start short. You can always build a second layer the following evening, but you cannot easily take colour away once it has developed.