Get the Best Results from Your Spray Tan
Proper preparation is the secret to a flawless, long-lasting spray tan. Follow these expert guidelines to ensure your custom color develops evenly and beautifully.
Quick prep checklist: Exfoliate 24 hours before • Shave/wax 24-48 hours prior • Arrive with clean, dry skin • Wear dark, loose clothing
Hair Removal
✓ Shave or wax 24-48 hours before your appointment
Allows time for skin to calm
Prevents irritation that can affect tan development
Avoid hair removal on the day of your appointment
Avoid These Treatments
✗ Facials, chemical peels, or aggressive treatments
✗ Retinol or AHA/BHA products
✗ Self-tanning products
These can create uneven surfaces or interfere with color development
Exfoliation is Key
✓ Gentle, thorough exfoliation with a mitt or scrub
Focus on these areas:
- Elbows and knees (prone to darkness)
- Ankles and feet
- Hands and wrists
- Any areas with dry or rough skin
Pro tip: Use a body scrub or exfoliating mitt in circular motions. Don’t over-scrub—gentle but thorough is perfect.
What NOT to do 24 hours before:
✗ Don’t exfoliate on the day of your appointment, do it the day before.
✗ Avoid hot baths or long showers the day of your appointment
✗ Skip intensive workouts that cause excessive sweating the day of your appointment
Shower and Skin Prep
✓ Take a lukewarm shower no less than 2-4 hours before your appointment
✓ Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser
✓ Completely dry your skin
What to Avoid Before Your Appointment
✗ Moisturizers, lotions, or oils
✗ Deodorant or antiperspirant
✗ Perfume or body sprays
✗ Makeup (face and body)
✗ Jewelry (including wedding rings)
Why avoid these? These products create barriers that prevent even tan application and can cause streaking or patchy results.
What to Wear to Your Appointment
✓ Dark, loose-fitting clothes
✓ Flip-flops or sandals you can easily slip off
✓ Dark undergarments (if you prefer to keep them on)
✓ Hair tie to keep hair up and off your skin
Bring with you:
- Dark flip-flops or other loose shoe for after your tan
- Hair tie or clip
- Dark, loose outfit for leaving
Before your rinse
✓ Wear loose, dark clothing
✓ Avoid getting wet (rain, swimming, excessive sweating)
✓ Sleep in dark sheets or use a dark towel if sleeping in your tan
✓ Avoid tight clothing, bras with underwire, or anything that rubs
Activities to Avoid During Development
✗ Working out or sweating
✗ Swimming or hot tubs
✗ Tight clothing or shoes
✗ Sitting on light-colored furniture without protection
Your First Rinse
We’ll give you specific timing during your consultation
How to Rinse Properly
✓ Use lukewarm (not hot) water
✓ Gently rinse with your hands
✓ Use nothing but your hand and warm water
✓ Pat dry with a clean towel—don’t rub
What you’ll see: The bronze cosmetic layer will rinse off, and your tan will continue to develop for 24 hours.
