Rapid vs. Regular Spray Tan Solution: Which One Is Right for You?
If you are booking a professional spray tan at Mekah’s Body Shop in Burbank, you may wonder which solution you should choose: rapid spray tan solution or regular spray tan solution?
I get this question from guests all the time.
The good news is that the answer is simple.
At my spa, I offer two Sjōlie options: Rapid and Regular. Both are professional sunless spray tan solutions, but they work differently when it comes to development and rinse timing.
For most guests, the decision comes down to two things:
Your schedule and your personal preference.
If you want to rinse your spray tan sooner and know you can shower within five hours, Rapid may be the better choice.
If you are going to be out all day and cannot guarantee that you will be able to shower within five hours, Regular may be a better fit.
I have been a licensed esthetician since May 2007, and after more than 19 years working with guests and their skin, I have learned that the best recommendation starts with understanding what works for the person sitting in front of me.
That is why I offer both options.
This guide will help you understand the difference between rapid spray tan solution and regular spray tan solution, so you can arrive at your appointment knowing what to expect.
Rapid vs. Regular Spray Tan at a Glance
If you only have a minute, here is the quick version.
|
Rapid Solution |
Regula Solution |
|
|
Solution type |
Rapid |
Regular |
|
Development/rinse window |
1–5 hours |
1–8 hours |
|
Best for |
Guests who can control their schedule |
Guests who need more time before showering |
|
Timing |
Shorter rinse window |
Longer development window |
|
Color depth |
Controlled by rinse timing |
Dark-depth solution |
|
Key consideration |
You must plan your rinse |
Solution neutralizes after 8 hours |
My simple rule: If you know you can shower within five hours, Rapid gives you that flexibility. If you are going to be running around all day, the Regular solution may make more sense.
What Is Sunless Spray Tanning?
Sunless spray tanning gives your skin a temporary tanned appearance without intentionally exposing your skin to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or a tanning bed.
One of the primary ingredients used in sunless tanning is dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. According to the FDA, DHA interacts with amino acids in the surface layer of the skin to darken its appearance and create the look of a tan.
That is different from a UV tan.
A professional spray tan also gives me the opportunity to help you choose a solution and development schedule based on what you actually need.
At Mekah’s Body Shop, I use professional Sjōlie spray tan products. Sjōlie identifies Rapid as an 18% DHA rapid-rinse formula with a 1–5-hour rinse window. Its Regular is a dark-depth solution with 12% DHA, an aloe vera base, olive undertones, and an 8-hour development time.
The important thing to understand is that rapid and regular do not mean good and bad.
They are simply two different options.
What Is a Rapid Spray Tan Solution?
A rapid spray tan solution is formulated so you can rinse sooner than you would with a standard development solution.
Sjōlie’s Original Rapid is an 18% DHA rapid-rinse formula. Sjōlie states that clients can rinse in 1–5 hours instead of the standard 8 hours, with the color continuing to develop after the rinse.
This is especially convenient for guests who do not want to keep the tanning solution on their skin for a long period.
But there is one important detail:
Rapid Requires You to Pay Attention to the Clock
When you choose Rapid, your rinse time matters.
I will discuss your desired depth and your schedule with you so you know when to shower.
You should not think of Rapid as a solution you can leave on indefinitely.
If your day is packed with errands, appointments, work, school, or activities and you are not sure when you will be able to shower, tell me before we choose your solution.
I would rather put you in the option that works with your actual day.
When Is Rapid Spray Tan Solution a Good Choice?
I usually recommend Rapid when a guest has a predictable schedule after the appointment.
Rapid may be a good fit if you:
- Know when you will be able to shower.
- Prefer not to leave tanning solution on your skin longer than necessary.
- Want the flexibility of a shorter development period.
- Have several hours available after your appointment.
- Have an event or occasion coming up and want a rapid-rinse option.
- Prefer the convenience of a shorter rinse window.
For example, imagine you book your spray tan at noon.
You know you will be home by 4 p.m.
You have your shower time planned.
That is a good situation for Rapid.
On the other hand, if you book at noon and tell me, “I am going to be out all day and have no idea when I will get home,” I may recommend the regular solution instead.
It is really that simple.
What Is Regular Spray Tan Solution?
The Regular option I offer is Sjōlie Original No. 12 Dark.
Sjōlie describes this solution as a dark-depth solution with 12% DHA, an aloe vera base, and olive undertones. It is designed to give rich, warm depth while maintaining a natural-looking finish. Sjōlie lists an 8-hour development time for this solution.
For my guests, the regular development window is:
1–8 hours.
After 8 hours, the solution neutralizes.
That makes the regular solution a practical choice when you need more time before your first shower.
When Is Regular a Better Choice?
I recommend the regular solution when your schedule does not work well with the shorter Rapid rinse window.
For example, you may have:
- Work after your appointment.
- Errands to run.
- Children to pick up.
- Appointments throughout the afternoon.
- A long commute.
- Dinner plans.
- A busy day away from home.
- An unpredictable schedule.
If you know you cannot get home and shower within five hours, I would rather have you choose the regular solution.
You do not need to spend the day wondering whether you are going to make it home in time.
Regular gives you a 1–8-hour development window, and the solution neutralizes after eight hours.
Rapid vs. Regular Spray Tan Solution: What Is the Real Difference?
The biggest difference is development and rinse timing.
It is not as complicated as it may sound.
Rapid Solution
1–5 hours
Rapid is designed for guests who want a shorter rinse window.
You choose your timing based on the desired depth we discuss, and you need to be able to shower within the recommended window.
Regular Solution
1–8 hours
Regular gives you a longer development window.
After eight hours, the solution neutralizes.
Think About Your Day
Before choosing your solution, ask yourself:
“When can I realistically shower?”
That question may tell you more than anything else.
If the answer is:
“I know I can shower in a few hours.”
Rapid may be a good choice.
If the answer is:
“I have no idea. I’m going to be out all day.”
I would lean toward the regular option for your appointment.
Does Rapid Mean a Lighter Spray Tan?
No.
This is one of the most common misunderstandings about rapid spray tanning.
Rapid refers to the development and rinse process.
With Sjōlie Original Rapid, the timing of your rinse gives you control over the depth. Sjōlie explains that the formula is designed for a 1–5-hour rinse window and that the color continues developing after the rinse.
So I do not want you to think:
Rapid = light.
Instead, think:
Rapid = shorter rinse window.
If you want a deeper result, we can discuss the appropriate timing for your desired result.
Does the Regular Solution Mean You Have to Leave It On for 8 Hours?
No.
The development window is 1–8 hours.
That does not mean every guest has to wait eight hours.
Your timing depends on the result you want and the instructions I give you during your appointment.
The important thing is that you understand the maximum development window:
Regular neutralizes after 8 hours.
If you are unsure about your rinse timing, ask me before you leave.
I would much rather answer your question at the appointment than have you spend the rest of the day wondering what to do.
How I Help You Choose Your Spray Tan Solution
When you come in for a professional spray tan at Mekah’s Body Shop, I want to know what your day looks like.
I may ask you questions such as:
- What time is your appointment?
- What are you doing afterward?
- When can you shower?
- How much color are you looking for?
- Do you prefer a shorter rinse time?
- Are you comfortable leaving the solution on for several hours?
These questions help me determine which solution makes sense for you.
This is one of the benefits of getting a professional spray tan instead of treating the process like a one-size-fits-all service.
Your appointment is not just about applying solution.
It is also about choosing the right option and making sure you understand what to do afterward.
My Easy Spray Tan Decision Guide
Here is the guide I want my guests to remember.
Choose Rapid If:
- You want a shorter rinse window.
- You do not like having solution on your skin for a long time.
- You can control your schedule after your appointment.
- You know when you will be able to shower.
- You want a rapid-rinse spray tan.
Development/rinse window: 1–5 hours.
Choose Regular If:
- You are going to be out for several hours.
- Your schedule is unpredictable.
- You cannot guarantee that you can shower within five hours.
- You prefer the regular development option.
- You want a dark-depth solution.
Development window: 1–8 hours.
The solution neutralizes after 8 hours.
What Happens After Your Spray Tan?
Your first shower is an important part of your spray tan aftercare.
I keep my instructions simple.
1. Shower With Body Soap
When it is time for your first shower, soap and water is all you need.
You do not need to overcomplicate the process.
2. Use Your Hands
For your first shower, I recommend using your hands instead of a loofah or washcloth.
Your skin does not need aggressive scrubbing.
3. Do Not Scrub
This is important.
Do not scrub your skin trying to remove the solution.
Let the water and body soap do their job.
4. Pat Yourself Dry
When you finish your shower, gently pat your skin dry with your towel.
Do not aggressively rub your skin.
5. Moisturize
Apply moisturizer after your shower.
Keeping your skin moisturized is an important part of maintaining healthy-looking skin and helping your tan fade evenly.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends moisturizing as part of good skin care and provides general self-tanning guidance that includes gentle application and continued sunscreen use.
What Should You Avoid After Your First Shower?
The biggest thing I tell my guests is:
Do not scrub.
Skip aggressive exfoliation immediately after your first rinse.
I also recommend avoiding anything that unnecessarily rubs or strips the skin during that first shower. Think razor or washcloth.
Your goal is to treat your skin gently.
Once your spray tan has developed and you are following your normal body-care routine, your tan will gradually fade as the outermost skin cells naturally shed.
Does a Spray Tan Protect You From the Sun?
No.
This is something I always want my guests to understand.
A sunless spray tan gives your skin the appearance of a tan, but it does not automatically provide UV protection.
The FDA states that most sunless tanning sprays and lotions do not contain sunscreen, and only products that contain sunscreen ingredients and are labeled with an SPF can provide sun protection.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance.
So even if you love your new glow, please continue protecting your skin when you are outside.
Your spray tan is for the color.
Your sunscreen is for sun protection.
Why I Use Professional Sjōlie Spray Tan Products
I chose Sjōlie products because professional spray tanning requires more than simply putting color on the skin.
The solution, application, timing, color selection, and aftercare all matter.
Sjōlie’s current professional education describes its Original line as an aloe-vera-based line with olive undertones and identifies Original Rapid as a rapid-development formula that rinses in 1–5 hours. Sjōlie also identifies Original Regular as a dark-depth solution with 12% DHA and an 8-hour development time.
That gives me options when working with different guests.
But the product is only part of the service.
My experience matters too.
I have been a licensed esthetician for nearly twenty years, and I have spent it working directly with guests and their skin.
That experience is one reason I do not want to treat every spray tan appointment exactly the same.
I want to know what you need.
Professional Spray Tanning in Burbank
If you are searching for spray tan Burbank, spray tan Burbank CA, or tanning Burbank, you may see several options.
I believe the consultation is an important part of the professional experience.
At Mekah’s Body Shop, I can help you decide between Rapid and Regular based on your schedule and personal preference.
I serve guests from Burbank and nearby Glendale, Hollywood, and the San Fernando Valley, so if you are looking for professional sunless spray tanning in the area, I would love to have you in my spa.
My goal is simple:
You should leave your appointment knowing exactly what solution you have, when you need to shower, and how to care for your tan afterward.
Rapid vs. Regular Spray Tan: Common Questions
Is rapid spray tan solution better than regular spray tan solution?
I would not say that one is better.
They serve different needs.
Rapid is a good option for guests who want a shorter rinse window and can control their schedule.
Regular is a good option for guests who need a longer development window.
The right choice depends on you.
How long do I leave the Rapid spray tan solution on?
Rapid has a 1-5-hour rinse window.
I will help you determine the appropriate timing based on your desired result and your appointment.
The important thing is that you are able to shower within the recommended window. Sjōlie identifies Rapid as a 1–5-hour rapid-rinse formula.
How long do I leave Regular spray tan solution on?
Regular has a 1-8 hour rinse window.
After 8 hours, the solution neutralizes. (You may sleep in the solution if needed.)
I will give you your specific instructions during your appointment.
What if I cannot shower within five hours?
Tell me before your appointment.
If you know that you will be out all day and cannot guarantee a shower within the Rapid window, the regular solution may be the better option for your schedule.
Can I shower earlier with Regular?
Your development time affects your final result, so I recommend following the rinse timing we discuss during your appointment rather than choosing a random shower time. The longer, the darker.
If you have a specific schedule or event, tell me when you book.
Can I use body soap after my spray tan?
Yes.
For your first shower, I recommend body soap and your hands.
Skip the loofah and washcloth, avoid scrubbing, and pat your skin dry when you finish.
Can I use a loofah after my spray tan?
I recommend skipping the loofah during your first shower.
Use your hands and be gentle with your skin.
Should I moisturize after my spray tan?
Yes.
After your first shower, apply moisturizer.
Keeping your skin moisturized is part of good skin care and can help your skin maintain a smooth appearance as the tan gradually fades.
Does a spray tan replace sunscreen?
No.
A sunless spray tan does not automatically protect your skin from UV exposure.
Continue using sunscreen when you are outdoors. The FDA and American Academy of Dermatology both emphasize that sunless tanning does not replace sun protection.
The Bottom Line: Which Spray Tan Solution Should You Choose?
If you remember one thing from this article, remember this:
Choose based on your schedule and your personal preference.
Rapid
1–5 hours
Choose Rapid if you want a shorter rinse window and know you can shower within that timeframe.
Regular
1–8 hours
Choose Regular if you need more time before your first shower, need to sleep overnight in the solution or know you will be out and about for several hours.
The regular solution neutralizes after 8 hours.
Neither choice is complicated.
I simply want you to choose the solution that fits your day.
If you are not sure, tell me what your schedule looks like.
I can help you decide.
Ready for Your Spray Tan?
If you are looking for professional sunless spray tanning in Burbank, I would love to help you choose the right solution for your appointment.
Whether Rapid or Regular makes more sense for you, I will make sure you understand your development time and aftercare before you leave.
If you are in Burbank, Glendale, Hollywood, or the surrounding San Fernando Valley, you can schedule your professional spray tan at Mekah’s Body Shop.
Ready for your glow? [Book Now!]
Other Links:
Spray Tan Prices —> https://www.mekahsbodyshop.com/tanning/tanning-prices/
Before & After Care —> https://www.mekahsbodyshop.com/2025/04/01/sunless-spray-tanning-tips-before-after-care/
Health Protection for Your Skin —> https://www.mekahsbodyshop.com/2026/04/30/the-glow-that-loves-you-back-a-smarter-way-to-tan/
Benefits of a Spray Tan —> https://www.mekahsbodyshop.com/2024/08/15/top-5-benefits-of-spray-tanning-achieve-a-radiant-glow-without-the-risks/
