How to Get Ready for a Spray Tan

Spray Tanning Before and After

Your Complete Prep Guide for Glowing, Streak-Free Skin

Spray tanning is one of the quickest and safest ways to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. Whether you're getting bronzed for a vacation, a special occasion, or simply to boost your confidence, preparing properly for your spray tan is essential to ensure an even, natural-looking, and long-lasting result.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for a flawless spray tan, including what to do before, during, and after your appointment. Let’s dive in!

Why Prep Matters: The Secret to a Smooth Tan

Spray tanning solutions interact with the top layer of your skin. Any buildup of dead skin cells, residue, oils, or lotions can cause streaks, uneven color, and patchiness. Proper prep means your tan applies evenly, fades naturally, and lasts longer—typically 5 to 10 days, depending on your skin type and post-care routine.

24-48 Hours Before: Exfoliate + Hair Removal

1. Exfoliate Your Skin

Exfoliating before your spray tan removes dead skin cells and creates a smooth surface for the tanning solution to adhere to. Focus on rougher areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and heels.

Best method? Use a gentle body scrub or an exfoliating mitt. Avoid oil-based scrubs as they can leave a residue that interferes with the tan.

💡 Pro Tip: Do your exfoliation at least 24 hours before your spray tan, not the day of, to avoid skin sensitivity.

2. Shave or Wax in Advance

If you plan to shave or wax, do it at least 24 hours before your appointment. This allows time for your pores to close and reduces the risk of irritation or dotting (when tan collects in open pores).

The Day Before: Moisturize Smartly

Moisturizing helps keep your skin healthy and hydrated, but avoid applying thick creams, oils, or lotions on the day of your tan. These can create a barrier that prevents the tanning solution from absorbing properly.

What to do instead: Moisturize well the day before, especially on drier areas like ankles and hands. Then, skip lotion on the day of your spray tan - except for a light, oil-free moisturizer on very dry patches if advised by your technician.

The Day Of Your Appointment

1. Shower & Skip Products

• Shower with a mild, non-oil-based cleanser.

• Avoid using deodorant, perfume, makeup, or heavy skincare products. These can interfere with the spray tan formula or cause patchiness.

2. Dress the Part

Wear loose, dark clothing and flip-flops or loose sandals. Tight clothes can rub against the tan while it’s developing and cause uneven lines.

Pro Tip: Avoid wearing a bra right after your tan if possible. It may cause lines or streaks where the straps touch your skin.

3. What to Bring

• A hair tie or clip to keep your hair off your face and neck.

• An umbrella if there’s a chance of rain.

• An old towel for your car seat, just in case.

During the Appointment: What to Expect

Your technician will guide you on how to pose, where to apply barrier cream (typically hands, feet, elbows, and knees), and may ask you to wear disposable undergarments or go nude depending on your comfort level.

The spray tan takes just a few minutes to apply and usually dries within 10–15 minutes. Some salons offer rapid-developing solutions, while others require 6–8 hours to fully develop.

Aftercare: Let It Set

After your tan is applied:

1. Don’t Shower or Sweat Too Soon

Avoid water, sweating, or applying any products for the time your technician recommends—typically 6–8 hours for classic tans or 2–4 hours for rapid tans.

2. First Shower = Just a Rinse

When it’s time to shower, rinse gently with lukewarm water and skip soaps and scrubs. Don’t panic if you see color washing off—this is just the cosmetic bronzer, not your actual tan.

Maintaining Your Glow

1. Hydrate Daily

Apply a gentle, oil-free moisturizer daily to help your tan fade evenly and last longer.

2. Avoid Harsh Products

Skip exfoliants, retinols, or anything with acids (like glycolic or salicylic acid) while your tan is active.

3. Limit Chlorine and Long Hot Baths

These can cause your tan to fade quickly or unevenly. Shower instead of soaking, and pat dry—don’t rub.

Ready to Glow?

When you follow these steps, your spray tan will not only look more natural but will also last longer and fade more evenly. It’s the ultimate confidence booster - and it all starts with a little prep work.

If you're ready to book your spray tan, or have questions about which formula is right for your skin type and tone, we’re here to help! Glow smarter, not harder.

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