Science Behind Your Glow
How Hormones Impact Your Spray Tan
Author | Darlene Clattenburg | May 29, 2025 | Sunless Sessions Blog
Have you ever booked a spray tan and noticed it didn't turn out quite like last time—maybe it faded faster, looked uneven, or didn’t develop as dark? You’re not imagining things. The answer could lie beneath the surface—literally.
Welcome to the Sunless Sessions blog, where beauty meets science. In this post, we explore the powerful relationship between your hormonal cycle and your spray tan results. Understanding this connection can help you better plan your appointments and maintain that sunless glow longer.
How Hormones Affect Your Spray Tan:
Your body’s hormonal shifts—especially those related to your menstrual cycle—can directly affect your skin's texture, hydration, and cell turnover, all of which impact how your spray tan develops and fades.
Let’s break it down:
1. Estrogen: Your Glow-Boosting Hormone
When estrogen levels are high—typically during the follicular phase of your cycle—your skin tends to be more elastic and hydrated. This means it’s in prime condition to absorb DHA (the active ingredient in sunless tanning solution), resulting in a smoother, more even tan that lasts longer.
Spray tan tip: Book your appointment during this phase for your best results!
2. Progesterone: The Dryness Factor
As progesterone peaks during the luteal phase, many women notice an increase in skin dryness or sensitivity. Dry skin may cause patchy or uneven development and faster fading, especially on areas like the elbows, knees, and hands.
Spray tan tip: Step up your moisturizing game during this phase—hydrated skin is happy, glowy skin.
3. Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH):
While MSH doesn’t directly influence DHA-based spray tans, it does impact your natural pigmentation and may fluctuate during pregnancy or due to medical conditions. Higher levels of MSH can result in a deeper natural tan—and may also affect how rich your spray tan appears.
Spray tan tip: Communicate any hormonal changes to your technician to adjust solution strength or prep advice.
Maximizing Your Spray Tan Results—Any Time of the Month:
Regardless of where you are in your cycle, these expert tips will help you achieve a flawless spray tan:
💥Exfoliate 24 hours before your session to remove dead skin cells for a smooth, even base.
💥Hydrate daily, especially after tanning, to extend your glow and prevent patchiness.
💥Avoid sweat and tight clothing immediately after your tan to prevent smudging or transfer.
💥Talk to your spray tan professional about your cycle and skin condition so they can customize the session for you.
Final Thoughts: Sync Your Tan With Your Cycle:
At Liquid Sunshine, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge. By understanding how your body’s natural hormonal rhythms influence your tan, you can work with your cycle—not against it—to achieve that radiant, bronzed look you love.
So next time you schedule your spray tan, consider your hormones, prep smart, and let your glow do the talking!
Ready to book your next session or chat about your specific skin goals?
Contact the experts at Liquid Sunshine Spray Tan for personalized advice and results-driven tanning services.
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#followyourglow