Skin & Color
Choosing Your Tan Depth: Light, Medium, or Deep
'How dark do you want to go?' is the most important question of your appointment. Depth isn't one dial — it's the formula, your skin, and your rinse timing working together. Here's how to think about each level.
The three depths, described honestly
- Light: a subtle, sun-kissed warmth — 'your skin, rested.' Perfect first-visit territory.
- Medium: a defined golden bronze — visible, polished, and the most popular event choice.
- Deep: a bold, rich bronze — statement color that suits deeper skin tones and confident regulars.
How depth is fine-tuned
- Formula strength is matched to your skin tone and undertone.
- Rinse timing adjusts the final depth — your technician sets it at the appointment.
- Application technique keeps hands, feet, elbows, and knees from going too dark.
A strategy that never fails
Start one level lighter than your instinct, especially before photos — cameras add richness. Live with it for a week, then adjust at your next visit. Two or three visits in, you'll have a 'house shade' that's unmistakably yours.
Common questions
Can I go deeper without looking orange?
Yes — when depth is matched to your undertone. Orange comes from mismatched depth, not from depth itself.
Does deeper last longer?
Slightly, because there's more color to fade — but aftercare (daily moisturizing, gentle showers) matters more than depth for longevity.
Related service
Specialists' Signature
$50+ · 20+ min
Free tool
Which Tan Is Right for Me?
Answer four quick questions to find your starting depth and finish.
Free tool
Which Tan Is Right for Me?
Answer four quick questions to find your starting depth and finish. It takes less than a minute.
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