How to Use a Nasal Tanning Spray

Getting the most from your nasal tanning spray comes down to three things: the right technique, the right timing, and a bit of consistency. This guide covers everything you need to know to use your nasal tanning spray with confidence — from your very first spray to maintaining that colour long-term. Whether you're brand new to nasal tanners or just want to make sure you're doing it right, here's exactly how it's done. Not sure if you need a nasal tanner or a tan accelerator? Read our comparison guide.

What is a nasal tanning spray?

A nasal tanning spray is a cosmetic spray designed to be used as part of your tanning routine. It is applied via the nostrils and used alongside UV exposure — either on a sunbed or in natural sunlight — to support your tan. For a full breakdown of what nasal tanners are and how they work, head to our dedicated guide. Here, we're focusing on the practical side: how to actually use one.

What you need before you start

Before your first session, make sure you have the following in place:

Your nasal tanning spray — shaken and ready to use
A UV source for activation — a sunbed or natural sunlight. Even 10 minutes counts.
Clean, dry nostrils — avoid using other nasal products for 2–3 hours beforehand.
A consistent schedule in mind — daily use during the loading phase gives you the best foundation.

How to use a nasal tanning spray — step by step

Follow these steps for every session:

Shake the bottle gently before each use.
Tilt your head back slightly — you don't need to fully recline.
Insert the nozzle just inside one nostril without pressing it against the nasal wall.
Spray once with a gentle pump — do not inhale sharply.
Repeat on the other nostril.
Wait 15–30 minutes before UV exposure for the best results.
Follow your UV session as normal — sunbed, natural sun, or both.

That's it. The technique is simple, but the consistency is what builds results. Stick to it daily during your loading phase and you'll see the difference quickly.

How many sprays should I use?

For most people, 1 spray per nostril once daily is the right starting point.

Here's how to approach it across two phases:

Loading phase (first 1–2 weeks): 1 spray per nostril, once daily. This is where you build the base colour. Keep it consistent.
Maintenance phase (once you've reached your desired colour): 1 spray per nostril every 2–3 days, or as needed to keep things topped up.

Never exceed the product's stated dose guidance. Starting at the lower end is always the smarter move — it gives your body time to adjust and reduces the chance of any side effects if you're trying nasal tanners for the first time. Build gradually and you'll get better, more even results. For a full dosage breakdown including loading vs maintenance phase guidance, see how many sprays of nasal tanner.

When should I use it in my routine?

Timing matters — and a small adjustment here can make a real difference to your results.

Use your nasal tanning spray 15–30 minutes before UV exposure (sunbed or sunbathing) for the best synergy between the spray and your session.
Pair it with a tan accelerator or tanning accelerator for sunbeds to maximise results — both products work together well.
Morning use is fine if you don't have an immediate UV session planned. The spray builds colour gradually with consistent use, so timing relative to the sun isn't critical every single day.

Tips for getting the best results

These are the habits that separate people who get good results from people who get great ones:

Consistency matters more than quantity. Daily use during the loading phase is more effective than irregular high-dose sessions.
Pair with UV exposure for best activation — even 10 minutes of sunlight helps. If you're a regular sunbed user, check out our full range of sunbed tanning products to build a complete routine.
Exfoliate before you start. Fresh, even skin gives you a cleaner base as colour develops — no patchy areas.
Stay hydrated and moisturise regularly. Hydrated skin holds colour longer, so make it part of the routine.
Planning to take your routine on holiday? Read our guide on can I take nasal tanners on holiday before you pack.
Once you've hit your target colour, switch to maintenance mode rather than stopping completely. Stopping abruptly means starting the loading phase again.

Which nasal tanner should I choose?

If you're new to nasal tanners, the standard range is the right place to start. It gives you a chance to understand how your body responds and build colour at a steady pace.

If you're more experienced and want faster, deeper results, the triple strength nasal tanners are the natural next step. They're not for first-timers — but once you know how your body responds to the standard formula, stepping up makes sense.

Browse the full nasal tanning spray range to find the right option for you.

Ready to start?

Using a nasal tanning spray is straightforward once you know what you're doing: spray once per nostril, wait 15–30 minutes, then hit UV. Do it daily during your loading phase, and switch to maintenance when you've reached your goal. That's the whole routine.

Shop the full nasal tanning spray range and find your formula. Want to go all in from the start? Check out our tanning bundles to pair your nasal tanner with everything you need for your best tan yet.