Sunbed vs spray tan

How each one works

A sunbed uses UV light to trigger melanin production in your own skin. The colour is genuinely yours, builds over several sessions and fades with your natural skin cycle. A spray tan applies DHA, a sugar derived compound that reacts with the surface layer of the skin to create a temporary bronze. No UV is involved at all.

Speed and timing

• Spray tan: colour within four to eight hours, or about an hour for an express formula. Ideal for an event later the same day.
• Sunbed: expect two to four sessions across a fortnight before the difference is obvious. Plan ahead of a holiday, not the night before.

How long it lasts

A spray tan typically lasts seven to ten days and fades as the outer skin cells shed — moisturising daily makes the biggest difference. A sunbed tan lasts as long as you maintain it, usually with a top-up session every week or two.

Cost over time

Per visit, a sunbed session is the cheaper option, but maintaining colour means regular sessions. A spray tan costs more per appointment and needs replacing every week or so. For most clients, occasional spray tans before events sit alongside a sunbed course through the darker months.

Risk and suitability

UV tanning carries a genuine skin cancer and photoageing risk, and is not appropriate for very fair skin that always burns, for anyone under 18, or for those on photosensitising medication. Spray tanning carries no UV risk; the main considerations are patch testing and avoiding it on broken skin. If you are unsure, our team will assess your Fitzpatrick skin type at your first visit.

Which should you choose?

• Event in 24 hours: spray tan, express if it is today.
• Building a base before a holiday: a graduated sunbed course started three weeks ahead.
• Very fair skin, or you always burn: spray tan only.
• Year-round colour with minimal fuss: a sunbed membership with maintenance sessions.