Spray tanning has become an increasingly popular way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the damaging effects of UV rays. Two of the leading spray tan brands on the market are Norvell Venetian and Norvell Dark.
But what exactly sets these two solutions apart? This comprehensive guide will break down the key differences between Norvell’s Venetian and Dark formulas to help you determine which is best for your skin tone and tanning goals.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Norvell Venetian | Norvell Dark |
| Color Intensity | Light, sun-kissed bronze | Ultra-dark, intense bronze |
| Best for Skin Tones | Fair, light, medium | Medium, tan, deep |
| Longevity | 5-7 days | 7-10 days |
| Odor | Light cherry almond scent | Light cherry almond scent |
| Price Per Ounce | $1.70 | $1.78 |
| Ease of Application | Easy, fast-drying | Easy, fast-drying |
Overview Of Norvell Venetian And Dark
Norvell is one of the most trusted names in sunless tanning. The company’s products are salon-quality and designed to give you a natural-looking, long-lasting bronze.
Norvell Venetian features a lighter bronzer that works best for fair to medium skin tones. It provides a sun-kissed glow that replicates the look of spending a few days in a tropical destination. The color is buildable, so you can gradually intensify your tan with repeat applications.
Norvell Dark, on the other hand, contains a higher level of DHA (the active tanning ingredient) and more concentrated color guides suited for medium to dark complexions. The ultra-dark color payoff mimics the appearance of deeply tanned skin. This solution is ideal for experienced tanners who want an intense bronzed hue.
Now let’s explore the key differences between these two top self-tanning products in greater detail.
Color And Development
The most noticeable distinction between Norvell’s Venetian and Dark formulas comes down to their color intensity and development process.
Venetian features what the brand categorizes as a level 3 bronzer, with color that continues to darken over 4-8 hours after application. The subtle bronze shade works well for lighter skin tones and produces a very natural-looking glow.
Dark contains a level 4 bronzer, Norvell’s darkest option. Upon application, you’ll notice immediate color payoff that reaches its peak development in just 1-3 hours. The ultra-dark tone works best for those with medium to deep complexions who want a dramatic tan result.
When comparing the final color results, Venetial produces a light golden tan while Dark imparts a richer, darker bronze.
Best Skin Tones
With its lighter bronzers, Norvell Venetian works best on fair to medium skin. The neutral undertones complement cooler skin tones in particular. This solution can take light complexions from pasty to sun-kissed without looking unnatural.
Norvell Dark is tailored for those with medium to deep skin tones. The powerful ultra-dark bronzers don’t appear overly orange or muddy against darker complexions. This formula helps deep skin tones achieve an intense bronzed goddess glow.
Here’s a breakdown of the best skin tones for each solution:
- Venetian: Fair, light, and medium skin
- Dark: Medium, tan, and deep skin
Whichever formula you choose, make sure to exfoliate and moisture your skin first for optimal absorption and color payoff.
Longevity
You want your sunless tan to last, so longevity is a key factor when choosing between Venetian and Dark.
The color developed by Norvell Venetian lasts an average of 5-7 days. The gradual self-tanner fades naturally and evenly for a seamless transition back to your regular skin tone.
Norvell Dark delivers longer-lasting results, with color that persists for 7-10 days on average. The higher level of DHA allows the deep bronze tone to truly sink in and stick around. Just be diligent with moisturizing to prevent any patchiness as the tan fades.
For the best longevity with either formula, maintain your glow with frequent applications (usually every 3-4 days).
Odor
No one wants to smell like a walking bottle of self-tanner. Norvell’s products use a proprietary Bio-NaturalTM fragrance designed to eliminate that tell-tale fake tan odor.
Venetian features a pleasant cherry almond fragrance that dissipates quickly after application. There is no bronzer or DHA smell that lingers on the skin.
Dark also utilizes the cherry almond scent. Some users report a faint chemical odor during the early stages of development, but this dissipates within a few hours to reveal just a light sweet aroma.
Both formulas score high marks in the odor department, especially compared to drugstore self-tanning products.
Also Read: Is Norvell Venetian Plus Better Than Double Dark?
Cost
When it comes to price point, Norvell Venetian and Dark are on par with other salon-quality spray tan solutions.
A 32oz bottle of Norvell Venetian costs $54.50. Norvell Dark comes in at $57 for a 32oz bottle.
This works out to around $1.70-$1.78 per ounce – comparable to what you would pay at a tanning salon per session. Considering the flawless results and longevity, both represent good value for money.
Ease Of Application
A major perk of Norvell’s spray tanning solutions is the easy, mess-free application process.
Both Venetian and Dark work seamlessly with the company’s spray tanning machines and compressors. The fine mist ensures smooth, even coverage with no streaking or clogged spray nozzles.
When applying by hand, the lightweight formulas blend and dry quickly. Be sure to exfoliate and use a barrier cream around hands, feet, joints, etc first to prevent uneven buildup in those areas.
Neither solution feels overly wet, sticky or dripping. And the quick-drying formulas mean you can get dressed in loose, dark clothing soon after tanning.
Overall, Venetian and Dark earn top marks for fuss-free, easy self-tanning application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main differences are color intensity and skin tones they are designed for. Norvell Dark has a higher level of DHA and ultra-dark bronzers tailored for medium to deep complexions. Norvell Venetian features lighter bronzers better suited for fair to medium skin tones.
Norvell Dark is the darkest of the Norvell self-tanning solutions. It contains the highest level of DHA and an intense level 4 bronzer designed to mimic deeply tanned skin.
The “best” Norvell formula comes down to your specific skin tone and tanning needs. Norvell Venetian works well for fair to medium complexions seeking a subtle, natural-looking glow. Norvell Dark is ideal for medium to deep skin wanting an ultra-dark, bronze goddess tan.
On average, the color developed by Norvell Venetian lasts 5-7 days. Maintain your sun-kissed glow longer by applying frequently as the tan begins to fade.
Also Read: Comparison Between EltaMD And CeraVe.
The Bottom Line
When choosing between Norvell’s top two self-tanning solutions, consider your skin tone, desired darkness, and longevity. Venetian gives fair to medium complexions a sun-kissed radiance, while Dark helps deeper skin achieve an intense, tropic bronze.
Both formulas deliver natural-looking, long-lasting color with easy application. Ultimately the right Norvell spray tan solution for you depends on your tanning goals and preferences. Give them both a try to see which you love best!