Preparing For Your Spray Tan

Preparing for a spray tan is essential to ensure you get the best and most even results. Maximize your session and follow these steps before your spray tan:

Exfoliate Your Skin: Start preparing a day or two before your spray tan appointment by exfoliating your entire body. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells. Pay special attention to rough areas like your knees, elbows, and heels. Our Exfoliating Body Wash helps create a smooth canvas for the tanning solution and ensures a more even application.
Shave or Wax: If you plan to remove hair, do so at least 24 hours before your appointment. Shaving or waxing right before the session can open your pores and may lead to an uneven tan.
Avoid Using Lotions or Oils: On the day of your spray tan appointment, avoid applying any lotions, oils, or moisturizers to your skin. These can create a barrier that prevents the tanning solution from adhering properly. However, make sure your skin is well-hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment.
Remove Makeup and Deodorant: Before your spray tan, remove makeup and deodorant. These can act as barriers to the tanning solution. You can usually use wipes provided at the salon or opt to bring your own makeup remover.
Be Mindful of Timing: Plan your spray tan appointment well in advance of any special events, as it can take a few hours for the color to fully develop. This allows time for any necessary touch-ups.
Wear Dark, Loose-Fitting Clothing: Plan your outfit for your appointment carefully. Opt-in for dark, loose-fitting clothing to avoid friction and smudging of the tanning solution after your session. Tight clothing can cause streaks or uneven color development.

Preserving Your Spray Tan

By following these tips and maintaining a proper skincare routine, you can enjoy a longer-lasting tan for 10-12 days:

Wait Before Showering: Most spray tan solutions require a few hours to fully develop. Aim to wait at least 4-8 hours before showering. Showering too soon can wash away some of the tanning solution and result in a lighter tan.
Use a Mild, Sulfate-Free Body Wash: When you do shower, use a mild, sulfate-free Body Wash. Harsh soaps and cleansers can strip the tan more quickly.
Avoid Hot Baths and Long Showers: Hot water can be harsh on your skin and may cause your tan to fade more quickly. Opt for lukewarm water and shorter showers to minimize the impact on your tan.
Moisturize Regularly: Hydrated skin holds onto a tan longer. Use a good-quality, alcohol-free moisturizer daily, and pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Well-hydrated skin will help maintain an even and long-lasting tan. Our Tan Extending Lotion is the perfect product to compliment your service.
Choose the Right Products: Avoid oil-based products, which can break down the tanning solution. Opt for water-based, oil-free moisturizers and body washes.
Avoid Chlorinated Pools and Hot Tubs: Chlorine can strip your tan. If you plan to swim, use a waterproof, broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your tan. After swimming, rinse off the chlorine as soon as possible and moisturize.
Pat, Don't Rub: When drying off with a towel, pat your skin gently rather than rubbing vigorously. Rubbing can exfoliate your skin and cause your tan to fade faster.
Skip Scrubs and Harsh Exfoliants: Avoid using exfoliating scrubs, loofahs, or other abrasive products that can remove your tan. If you need to exfoliate, do so gently and sparingly.
Avoid Waxing and Shaving: Waxing and shaving can remove the top layer of skin and your tan with it. If you must shave, do so gently and with a new or sharp razor. Use our Bronzing Mouse to maintain color in between shaving.
Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing: Tight clothing can rub against your skin and potentially remove the tanning solution. Especially during the first 24 hours after your spray tan.
Protect Your Skin from UV Exposure: Spray tans don't provide any protection from UV rays. Always use sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn, and wear protective clothing when spending time outdoors.
Avoid Sweating: After your spray tan, it's essential to avoid sweating for the recommended time (usually about 4-8 hours) to allow the tanning solution to set. Refrain from intense physical activities that can make you sweat