Spray Tan Prep & Aftercare 101

The way you prepare your skin and care for it after makes the biggest difference in how your tan develops, looks, and lasts. Follow this guide for your smoothest, most natural fade.

Before Your Appointment (Prep)

24–48 Hours Before

  • Exfoliate thoroughly using a mitt. Dry brush or mineral free gentle scrub (focus on ankles, knees, elbows, wrists)
  • Shave or wax at least 24 hours prior. Do not shave the day of your appointment
  • Stop retinol , accutane, and Tretinoin several days before your appointment
  • Avoid facials, chemical peels, or strong exfoliating treatments
  • Complete massage, facials, nails, waxing/sugaring, hair washing , and certain beauty services 24+ hrs before your appointment

Day of Appointment

  • Do not shower ( unless it is 6 + hrs before your appointment ) and arrive with completely clean skin
  • No skincare, lotion, oils, deodorant, makeup, or perfume
  • Wear loose ( preferably dark) clothing and slide on shoes to develop in.. Do not wear jeans, tight clothing, socks , tight shoes , or white while developing.
  • Remove all jewelry, sunglasses, glasses ( if possible) and bra after your appointment if possible.

After Your Spray Tan

Until Your First Rinse

  • Avoid water, sweating, or humidity
  • Wear loose clothing. Shorts or short dresses exposing most of the legs are not advised
  • Do not apply lotions or deodorant
  • Avoid tight or white clothing , jeans, sports bras or bra, or sunglasses,

(Rinse timing depends on your selected formula . I will guide you.)

First Shower

  • Rinse with lukewarm water only (no soap ) You may use my First Rinse body wash ( coming soon ) during this time to effectively assist with removing bronzer , hydrate skin, and provide a smooth tan
  • You will see cosmetic bronzer wash away that looks “brown or muddy” this is normal. It is not your tan washing away
  • Gently pat dry, do not rub/shimmy towel.
  • You may wear deodorant now if you wish
  • Please try to wait to take your first soapy shower at the 24 hr mark due to your tan development

Pro Tip:

If a lotion, body wash, makeup, deodorant, or skincare item has a heavy fragrance or says firming, anti-aging, rejuvenating or exfoliating, it is not spray tan friendly and will cause faster or uneven fading.

After Your First Soapy Shower

  • Your final color finishes developing up to 48 hours
  • Begin moisturizing twice daily. Drink water to keep skin barrier hydrated
  • Avoid all exfoliating products
  • Avoid long hot baths, pools, and hot tubs until your tan is fully developed

Maintaining Your Glow

  • Moisturize daily (hydrated skin holds color longer)
  • Use gentle, sulfate-free body wash and lotion
  • Pat dry after showers instead of rubbing
  • Avoid certain oils and all exfoliants unless you’re ready to remove the tan
  • Chlorine and long hot baths will fade your tan faster

Healthy, hydrated skin = the most even, longest-lasting glow ✨