I’ll be the first to admit it: I used to be that person who would head to a spray tan appointment with zero prep, wearing old, faded clothes, and praying for a sun-kissed glow.
And guess what? It was always a mess.
Streaky, patchy, and a far cry from the golden god look I had in mind. Fast forward to today, and I’ve mastered the art of a flawless spray tan.
Here’s the thing—getting that sunless tan requires more than just showing up; it’s about prep, aftercare, and a little TLC along the way.
So, if you want that perfect, natural-looking tan (and we’re talking no streaks, no patches, and no awkward color transitions), I’ve got you covered with these spray tan tips.
Why is Prep So Important for Your Spray Tan?
Image source- SjolieTanning
Have you ever tried to bake a cake without greasing the pan? Yeah, that’s what skipping prep is like for your spray tan. The result? It won’t stick, and it won’t look good.
Before your appointment, prepare your skin to ensure the tan goes on as smoothly as possible.
Exfoliate and Shave: This is your first step. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that could cause your tan to go uneven. And shaving? Let’s just say, a little extra smoothness goes a long way in avoiding any patchy spots. Make sure to do this at least 24 hours before your appointment for the best results.
Avoid Products That Create Barriers: I get it—some of your favorite skincare products might feel like an essential part of your routine. But the day of your spray tan? Skip the makeup, deodorant, perfume, and oil-based lotions. These products create barriers that can mess with the tan’s application, leaving you with uneven color or even spots that didn’t tan at all.
Clothing Choice Matters: On the day of your spray tan, aim for dark, loose-fitting clothes. Trust me—tight clothing and shoes can rub against your tan and cause it to fade faster. Go for comfy, breathable fabrics to help your tan set naturally.
What to Expect During Your Spray Tan Appointment?
Image source- SUNFX OFFICAL
Getting that golden glow isn’t just about the prep work—it’s also about how you behave during the actual spray session. Your technician is your guide here, and following their instructions will make a huge difference.
Positioning Is Key: Spray tanning isn’t a “sit back and relax” moment. You’ll be asked to move in certain ways, hold positions, and even twist or turn while the technician applies the solution. But hey, it’s all for the best glow, so just follow their instructions and trust the process.
Wear Disposable Undergarments: This isn’t a “high-fashion” moment, but wearing disposable undergarments will help avoid any awkward tan lines or staining on your personal clothing. Plus, it helps ensure an even application all over your body.
How to Care for Your Spray Tan After Your Appointment
So you’ve got that gorgeous glow—but how do you keep it from fading too soon? Here’s the scoop.
Stay Dry: The first 4-8 hours after your spray tan is critical. You need to avoid getting wet—no showers, no sweating, no swimming. This is the time when your tan is setting, and any moisture can mess with its development.
Moisturize Daily: Hydration isn’t just a beauty trend; it’s essential for keeping your tan fresh. Apply an oil-free moisturizer daily to maintain that golden color and keep your skin soft. Dry, flaky skin will cause the tan to fade prematurely.
Shower Smart: When you finally get to shower, do it gently. Avoid hot water (lukewarm is the way to go) and use an oil-free cleanser. Instead of scrubbing your body with a towel, pat your skin dry. Rubbing can cause the tan to come off faster, and we don’t want that!
What Should You Avoid After Getting a Spray Tan?
Now that you’ve achieved a flawless spray tan, you want to ensure it stays that way. Here are a few no-no’s:
Avoid Harsh Products: Stay clear of exfoliating scrubs, anything with alcohol, or skincare products that contain retinoids. These ingredients can cause the tan to fade quicker than you’d like. Also, avoid chlorine and saltwater—they’re known tan killers.
Minimize Friction: No tight clothes and no heavy workouts that’ll leave you drenched in sweat. Friction can cause your tan to fade unevenly, leaving you with splotchy patches that don’t look cute.
Touch-Up Products: Need a quick fix? Grab a gradual tanning lotion or touch-up spray to maintain that perfect glow. It’s an easy way to keep your tan looking fresh between appointments.
Can I Get the Perfect Shade for My Skin Tone?
Image source- SjolieTanning
Choosing the Right Shade: One of the biggest questions I hear is, “How do I pick the right shade?” It’s tempting to go for the darkest tan possible, but if you’re unsure, I recommend starting light and gradually going darker. Your technician can guide you on which shade works best for your skin tone.
FAQ About Spray Tan Tips
1. How soon after a spray tan can I shower?
You’ll need to wait at least 4-8 hours after your spray tan to shower. The solution needs time to develop on your skin, and showering too early can result in streaky or uneven color.
2. Can I wear makeup after my spray tan?
It’s best to avoid makeup for the first 24 hours. Your skin will still be absorbing the tanning solution, and makeup can cause it to streak or fade unevenly.
3. How can I make my spray tan last longer?
Moisturizing daily with an oil-free moisturizer is key. Also, avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or friction, as they’ll shorten the life of your tan.
4. Can I get a spray tan if I have sensitive skin?
Yes! But I recommend asking your technician for a patch test at least a day before your appointment. This will ensure you don’t have any allergic reactions to the tanning solution.
Final Scoop Before You Jump In
Let’s get real—spray tanning isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling good too.
That golden glow makes you feel confident, and let’s face it—there’s nothing quite like stepping out of a salon with that fresh, sun-kissed look.
But to truly get the most out of it, prep is key, and taking care of your tan afterwards will ensure it lasts longer.
Follow these spray tan tips, and you’ll be glowing all summer long, no matter what the weather is doing.
