You want that golden, sun-kissed glow—minus the UV damage—but you’ve heard the horror stories. Patchy ankles, streaky arms, and worst of all… the dreaded orange tint.
That orange glow may have been common years ago, but the fear still lingers—and keeps many from trying a spray tan at all.
The good news? With the right prep and products, orange tans are easily avoidable. This guide covers why it happens, how to prevent it, and what to do if your glow goes wrong.
Why Do Spray Tans Sometimes Turn Orange?
It all comes down to DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) — the active ingredient in most spray tanning solutions. DHA is a colourless sugar that reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin, creating a browning effect that mimics a natural tan. But if the balance isn’t right, that glow can veer into orange territory.
Here’s why it happens:
1. Too Much DHA
A high concentration, especially on fair or dry skin, can lead to an unnatural orange tint.
2. Low-Quality or Expired Products
Old or cheap formulas may oxidise poorly or contain additives that enhance orange tones.
3. Wrong Shade for Your Skin Tone
A spray tan that clashes with your skin’s undertone can bring out unwanted orange hues.
4. Poor Skin Prep
Dry or unexfoliated skin can absorb DHA unevenly, causing patchiness and darker, orange spots.
Myth vs. Reality: Are Orange Spray Tans Still a Thing?
The short answer? Not really—if done right.
Spray tans have come a long way
The orange tones that gave self-tanners a bad name were mostly the result of early formulas with high DHA levels and little customisation.
Solutions designed to work with different skin tones
Offering customisable shades that look natural, not fake. Many are infused with skin-loving ingredients and undertone-balancing technology to prevent discolouration.
There’s also a big difference between professional spray tans and at-home products. Technicians can match you with the right solution for your skin tone and apply it evenly, reducing the risk of streaks or colour mishaps.
At-home tanners often lack this level of precision, which can lead to less predictable results—especially if the product isn’t suited to your skin.
Bottom line: orange tans are a thing of the past—as long as you prep properly and choose the right formula.
How to Avoid an Orange Spray Tan
- Pick the Right Shade: Match your skin tone and undertone—ask a pro if unsure.
- Prep Well: Good tanning preparation is key, exfoliate and skip lotions or deodorant before tanning.
- Choose Quality: Use trusted products or see a skilled technician.
- Follow Aftercare: Wear the right clothes after a spray tan, avoid water for a few hours and moisturise regularly
Ready for a Glow Without the Orange?
Spray tans don’t have to mean streaks or orange tones—when done right, a quality long-lasting spray tan leave you looking fresh, flawless, and naturally bronzed.
At Brazilian Butterfly, our expert technicians use premium solutions tailored to your skin tone, so you get the perfect glow every time—minus the guesswork.
Book your professional spray tan today and enjoy salon-quality results at great value.
