🕒 Before Your First Rinse

This is the most important part of your spray tan. During this time, your tan is developing, so it’s important to avoid anything that may interfere with the process.

✅ DO

✔ Stay completely dry.

✔ Wear loose, comfy dark clothing.

✔ Pants are preferred. If possible, avoid shorts to reduce friction.

✔ Remove jewelry if possible.

After your first rinse, you may return to wearing deodorant or antiperspirant as normal You may also lightly moisturize with a spray tan friendly lotion.

DURING DEVELOPMENT

🚫 NO BRA during development.

🚫 Avoid tight or light clothing.

🚫 Avoid tight shoes or socks.

🚫 Avoid sunglasses or eyeglasses if possible, as they may leave pressure marks.

🚫 Do not get wet.

🚫 Do not get sweaty.

🚫 Avoid exercise, excessive heat, humidity, rain , cooking over a hot stove, yard work, outdoor events, or anything that may cause perspiration.

🚫 Do not apply perfume, deodorant, or makeup to sprayed areas while developing

💡 Southern Glow Tip: If you absolutely must wear a bra, choose the loosest, wire free option possible and remove it as soon as you can.

At your instructed rinse time, rinse using lukewarm water ONLY
Using your hands to gently guide the water gently over your entire body.
Do NOT simply stand under the shower and let the water run over you. You may also use Southern Glow Co. First Rinse™ during your first shower to gently cleanse away cosmetic bronzer while protecting your developing glow .Make sure you rinse every area thoroughly,

including:

Under your arms

Elbows

Knees

Ankles

Feet

Between your fingers & toes

Skin folds and creases

Face , neck and behind the ears

The water may look brown, muddy, or dirty. 🤎 Don’t panic! This is simply your cosmetic color guide bronzer washing away not your spray tan.

Once you’ve completed your rinse, repeat the entire process a SECOND time to ensure all cosmetic bronzer has been removed. Leaving cosmetic bronzer behind can cause:

Streaking

Uneven development

Transfer onto clothing or bedding

After rinsing:
✔ Pat dry gently with a towel
🚫 Never rub or shimmy your towel across your skin.
🚫 Please not urinate during your first rinse. Urine is naturally acidic and may leave a visible streak while your tan is still developing.

After your first rinse, gently pat dry only ( never shimmy ! ) and change into loose, comfy clothing. Continue to avoid wearing a bra, socks, or enclosed shoes. Your tan will continue developing behind the scenes for the next 24 hours, whether you received a rapid, clear, or classic rinse.

After your first rinse, you may return to wearing deodorant or antiperspirant as normal. You may also apply a light layer of spray tan friendly lotion to keep your skin hydrated and happy.

Wait 24 hours after your spray tan appointment before using a spray tan-friendly body wash. Unless you are using First Rinse™

This allows your spray tan to complete its development.

When showering:
✔ Use your hands only.
🚫 No washcloths.
🚫 No loofahs.
🚫 No exfoliating gloves.
🚫 No body scrubs.
Even soft washcloths create friction that may cause premature fading.

After showering:
✔ Pat dry.
🚫 Never rub or shimmy your towel.
✔ Immediately moisturize with a spray tan-friendly lotion.
💧 Hydrated skin = a longer-lasting tan.

For the best longevity:
✔ Moisturize every day with a spray tan friendly lotion, oil, or hydration spray
✔ Drink plenty of water.
✔ Moisturize immediately after shower

Remember healthy hydrated skin allows your tan to fade evenly and naturally.

🚫 PRODUCTS TO USE WITH CAUTION
Some skincare products and medications may cause your spray tan to fade faster or unevenly. These include:

Prescription acne treatments

Retinol & Retinoids

Retin-A®

Tretinoin

Accutane® (Isotretinoin)

Benzoyl Peroxide

Salicylic Acid

Glycolic Acid

Lactic Acid

Chemical exfoliants

Harsh facial or body scrubs

Alcohol-heavy body products

Topical steroid creams

Steroid ointments

Some medicated eczema creams

If you’re unsure whether one of your skincare products may affect your spray tan, just ask! I’m always happy to help.

Your glow doesn’t end when you leave the studio. Meet the Southern Glow Aftercare Collection, created to help cleanse, hydrate and care for your skin throughout the life of your spray tan

What is Glow Veil™?

Glow Veil™ is Southern Glow Co.’s lightweight hydration mist created to give thirsty skin an easy boost of hydration while helping support a softer, more even looking spray tan fade. Shake your Glow Veil™ well before every single use. The ingredients can naturally separate while the bottle sits. Shaking helps redistribute everything throughout the bottle so you get a properly blended mist with every application.

How to Use : Shake well. Hold the bottle several inches away from the skin and mist evenly over the body. Allow it to absorb into the skin before dressing. Use throughout the life of your spray tan whenever your skin needs an extra boost of hydration.

Glow Veil™ can also be paired with Glow Elixir™ as part of your Southern Glow at home hydration routine.

 Glow Elixir™

What is Glow Elixir™?

Glow Elixir™ is Southern Glow Co.’s concentrated body oil created to seal in moisture and give dry, spray tanned skin the extra love it needs. Shake your Glow Elixir™ well before every single use. The oils and other ingredients need to be redistributed before application. Shaking helps make sure you are getting the intended blend each time you use it.

How to Use : Shake well before use. Mix with your favorite spray tan friendly lotion , or apply directly to the body and massage into the skin. Pay extra attention to areas that tend to become dry, including the legs, arms, elbows and knees. 

For even more hydration, pair Glow Elixir™ with Glow Veil™. Mist the skin with Glow Veil™ first, then follow with Glow Elixir™ to help seal in that hydration. 

 First Rinse™ Body Wash

What is First Rinse™?

First Rinse™ is Southern Glow Co.’s spray tan friendly body wash created with your glow in mind. It gives you a simple body wash option without having to stand in the shower reading ingredient labels and wondering whether your body wash is going to work with your spray tan. Shake First Rinse™ well before every single use. Natural separation can occur between uses. Shaking the bottle helps blend everything back together before it goes onto your skin.

How to Use : Shake well before use. Apply a small amount to hands, lather, and apply to wet skin.  Gently cleanse with your hands. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, exfoliating gloves, loofahs or anything that creates unnecessary friction while you are trying to maintain your spray tan. Rinse thoroughly and gently pat your skin dry. Follow with your favorite Southern Glow hydration products once your skin is dry. Perfect for the first rinse , on day 4 for a DHA freshener or anytime 

 ONE RULE FOR ALL THREE

SHAKE. SHAKE. SHAKE.Glow Veil™, Glow Elixir™ and First Rinse™ should all be shaken well before EVERY use. These are small batch Southern Glow products, and some natural separation is completely normal. A good shake helps redistribute the ingredients so the product is blended before it reaches your skin.

Enjoy your vacation! 🤎 Your spray tan is designed to go with you. Just remember these tips to keep your glow looking its best.

☀️ Protect Your Glow

✔ Wear a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

✔ Apply sunscreen gently. Avoid rubbing it aggressively into your skin.

✔ Reapply sunscreen as directed to protect your skin.

🚫 Avoid all boujee and over the counter tanning oils

🌊 Swimming & The Beach

✔ Chlorine and salt water may shorten the life of your tan.

✔ Sand is a natural exfoliant and can cause your tan to fade faster.

✔ Sitting in a wet bathing suit for extended periods creates friction that may lead to patchiness.

✔ After swimming or sitting in sand , rinse with fresh water as soon as possible.

✔ Pat your skin dry. Never rub with a towel.

✔ Moisturize immediately after rinsing.

Have a strong bikini top line, swimsuit line or natural suntan line? A custom spray tan can often help soften and blend it, but complete coverage cannot be guaranteed.

Here’s why: A natural suntan and a spray tan create color in two completely different ways.UV exposure increases melanin within the skin. That natural color is not simply sitting on the surface waiting to be exfoliated away.

A spray tan works differently. DHA reacts with amino acids in the dead cells of the outermost layer of the skin, called the stratum corneum. It creates temporary color on the surface, but it does not remove or change the melanin underneath.

Think about a prominent bikini top tan line. The skin exposed to the sun may already have significantly more melanin and appear much darker than the protected skin underneath the bikini. When DHA is applied, we are still starting with two different base colors.

Bikini top lines can be especially challenging on the chest and décolletage. This area has relatively thin, delicate skin, but the biggest challenge is still the difference in underlying melanin between the UV exposed skin and the skin that was protected from the sun.

Southern Glow Co. can use custom color selection and intentional application techniques to build color on the lighter areas and soften the transition between the two. Sometimes we can get a beautiful blend and make those lines significantly less noticeable.

But there is a limit to what DHA can correct. Applying more and more solution to the lighter area does not necessarily make it match perfectly and can eventually create an unnatural result.

The stronger the original suntan line, the more likely some contrast may remain.

 Southern Glow Tip: If you have prominent bikini or swimsuit tan lines before a wedding, vacation, photoshoot or special event, let us know before your appointment. We can discuss what is realistically achievable and customize your application accordingly.

And please do not aggressively exfoliate trying to scrub a natural suntan away. Exfoliation removes dead surface cells. It cannot immediately remove the underlying UV induced pigmentation, and over exfoliating can leave your skin irritated and make an even spray tan more difficult.

Our goal is to blend it, soften it and make it less noticeable. Complete disappearance is never guaranteed.

Once your spray tan has fully developed, you can return to your normal exercise routine.

This includes:

✔ Weightlifting

✔ Running

✔ Walking

✔ Pilates

✔ Yoga

✔ HIIT workouts

✔ Cycling

✔ Swimming

✔ Sauna & steam room (keep in mind these may shorten the life of your tan due to heat and prolonged sweating.)

💧 After Your Workout

✔ Shower as soon as possible.

✔ Use a spray tan-friendly body wash.

✔ Pat your skin dry.

✔ Moisturize immediately.

🤎 Southern Glow Tips

💦 Sweat won’t instantly remove your spray tan, but repeated sweating combined with friction may cause it to fade more quickly.

👕 Wear moisture-wicking workout clothing when possible to help reduce friction.

🧘 If you’re taking hot yoga, using a sauna, or sitting in a steam room, expect your tan to fade a little faster because of prolonged heat, sweating, and dehydration.

💧 Stay hydrated! Healthy, hydrated skin helps your tan fade more evenly.

💡 Fun Fact

Exercise doesn’t ruin your spray tan.

What shortens the life of a spray tan is friction, heat, frequent showering, chlorine, and dehydrated skin—not the workout itself.

SKIN CONDITIONS & SPRAY TANNING

Eczema, Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Scars & More

Yes, many clients with skin conditions can still get a spray tan. But not every skin condition affects a spray tan the same way, and that is important to understand before your appointment. DHA, the ingredient responsible for developing your spray tan, reacts with the dead skin cells on the outermost layer of your skin. Because conditions such as vitiligo, eczema and psoriasis affect the skin in completely different ways, the way your spray tan develops, holds and fades may also be different. (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)

VITILIGO

Vitiligo is very different from eczema or psoriasis. Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin and giving your skin its natural color. This creates areas of skin with little or no natural pigment. (American Academy of Dermatology) Here is the important part for spray tanning:

DHA does not need melanin to create color.

DHA develops color through a reaction with the dead surface cells of the skin. That means skin affected by vitiligo can still develop color from a sunless tanning product even though that area has lost its natural pigment. Dermatologists even list DHA containing self tanners as an option for people who want to temporarily camouflage vitiligo. (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) At Southern Glow Co., a bronzed solution is often preferred when blending vitiligo because the cosmetic guide color allows the artist to see the color placement during the actual application instead of waiting for DHA to develop later. The goal is to soften the contrast and create a more blended appearance, but perfect color matching cannot be guaranteed. Areas with vitiligo can vary significantly from person to person.

ECZEMA

Eczema is different. Eczema does not primarily involve the loss of melanocytes. It is associated with inflammation and a compromised skin barrier, which can cause dryness, irritation, itching, flaking and changes in the skin’s surface. (American Academy of Dermatology) Because DHA develops in the outermost layer of the skin, very dry, flaky or irritated areas may grab color differently than the surrounding healthy skin.

That can mean:

• Darker development in very dry areas
• Uneven development
• Patchiness
• Faster or uneven fading

A spray tan may be possible when eczema is calm and the skin is intact, but Southern Glow Co. will not intentionally spray over skin that is open, weeping, infected or significantly irritated. Keeping the skin properly hydrated before and after your appointment can make a big difference.

PSORIASIS

Psoriasis behaves differently again. With psoriasis, the body produces skin cells much faster than normal. Those cells can accumulate and create thick, dry, scaly plaques on the skin. (American Academy of Dermatology)

Because DHA develops on those surface skin cells, psoriasis plaques may:

• Absorb more color than surrounding skin
• Develop darker
• Look uneven or patchy
• Shed color faster as those excess skin cells naturally come away

This does not necessarily mean someone with psoriasis cannot spray tan. It means expectations and application may need to be adjusted based on what the skin looks like on the day of the appointment.

Active, cracked, bleeding or significantly irritated plaques should not be sprayed.

SCARS

Scars are another situation where results can vary. Scar tissue can have a different texture, thickness, pigmentation and surface structure than the surrounding skin. Because of that, DHA may develop differently over a scar.

Some scars blend beautifully.

Some may develop lighter.

Some may grab darker.

And some may remain visible even after the surrounding skin develops.

A spray tan can soften the appearance of some scars, but it cannot guarantee that a scar will disappear.

New or incompletely healed scars should not be sprayed. The skin should be completely closed and healed first.

OTHER SKIN & AUTOIMMUNE CONDITIONS

There are many other conditions that can affect the skin, including alopecia areata, lupus related skin changes, ichthyosis, keratosis pilaris and other inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Having a diagnosis does not automatically mean you cannot receive a spray tan. What matters most to Southern Glow Co. is what your skin looks and feels like on the day of your appointment.

If the skin is open, actively inflamed, infected, weeping, bleeding, severely irritated or otherwise compromised, your appointment may need to be postponed or the affected area avoided. If you are under the care of a dermatologist or using prescription topical or oral medications, always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

WHY YOUR CONSULTATION MATTERS

This is exactly why Southern Glow Co. does not treat everybody like the next person in line. Skin conditions, medications, hormones, dryness, texture, pigmentation and skin turnover can all affect how a spray tan develops and fades.

Tell us about your skin.

There is nothing embarrassing about eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, scars, stretch marks, pigmentation differences or having skin that simply behaves differently. The more we know, the better we can customize your experience, set realistic expectations and determine whether your skin is ready to be sprayed that day.

Different skin does not mean you cannot glow. It simply means we need to understand the skin we are working with.

Some medications and medicated skincare can impact how your tan develops or fades, including:

• Accutane® (Isotretinoin)
• Prescription Retinoids
• Benzoyl Peroxide treatments
• Topical steroid creams or ointments
• Some medicated eczema creams

If you’re using prescription skincare and aren’t sure if it’s spray tan friendly, just ask! I’m happy to help.

Your safety always comes first

If you have a medical condition, recent procedure, implanted medical device, or healing skin, please let me know before your appointment so we can customize your service.

💉 Insulin Pumps & Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)

Examples:

• Dexcom®
• Libre®
• Omnipod®

✔ We can spray tan around your device.

🚫 We do not spray directly over adhesive patches or sensors.

🤎 Let me know where your device is located so I can work around it comfortably.

🩹 Healing Incisions, Stitches & Surgical Glue

🚫 I do not spray over open incisions, fresh stitches, staples, or surgical glue. Wait until the area is completely healed and your healthcare provider has cleared you for normal skincare.

🩹 Open Wounds, Cuts & Abrasions

Open skin should never be spray tanned. If needed, we’ll use a barrier cream or simply avoid that area.

🤍 New Scars

New scars may absorb DHA differently than surrounding skin. For the most even results, allow scars to fully heal before your spray tan whenever possible.

🔥 Sunburns

I do not spray over sunburned or peeling skin. Wait until your skin has completely healed before scheduling your appointment (6-8 weeks )

🩹 Bandages, KT Tape & Medical Adhesives

Bandages, KT tape, medical tape, and adhesive patches can affect your spray tan. Please remove bandages only if your healthcare provider has instructed you that it’s safe to do so.

🚫 If they’re removed after your spray tan, the adhesive may leave residue behind or lift some of your developing tan, creating lighter spots or uneven areas.

Whenever possible:

✔ Remove bandages or KT tape before your spray tan if it’s safe to do so.

✔ If they need to stay in place, I’ll simply spray around them.

💊 Recent Surgery

If you’ve recently had surgery, please let me know before your appointment. Depending on your procedure, we may need to modify your appointment or wait until your skin has healed.

📲 Please reach out if you have:

A skin condition you’re concerned about

A recent surgery

A new tattoo

Fresh permanent makeup

Sunburn or peeling skin

An insulin pump or CGM

A cast, brace, or medical device

Open wounds or stitches

Wait 48 + hours after a fresh spray tan to shave ( if applicable) since hair removal removes dead skin cells, which is where your spray tan develops. Timing matters!

🪒 Shaving

✔ Use a plain sharp razor.

✔ shave with the following

• Aloe vera gel
• Spray tan-friendly body wash
• Gentle, sensitive skin shaving cream

🚫 Avoid:

• Shaving oils
• Heavy moisturizing shave creams
• Razors with thick moisturizing strips if possible

After shaving:

✔ Pat dry.

✔ Moisturize immediately.

⚡ Epilator

An epilator removes hair from the root and will remove some of your spray tan.

✔ If possible, epilate 24–48 hours BEFORE your spray tan appointment.

✔ If you epilate after your spray tan, expect some fading in the treated areas.

🍯 Waxing & Sugaring

Waxing and sugaring remove the outer layer of dead skin along with the hair.

✔ Schedule 48–72 hours BEFORE your spray tan appointment.

🚫 Do not wax or sugar immediately after receiving a spray tan.

💥 Laser Hair Removal

Laser treatments may cause your skin to become more sensitive.

✔ Wait 1–2 weeks after laser treatments, or until your skin has completely healed before receiving a spray tan.

Always follow your provider’s recommendations.

🧴 Hair Removal Creams (Nair®, Veet®, etc.)

Hair removal creams chemically dissolve hair and can also remove your spray tan.

✔ Use 24–48 hours BEFORE your spray tan whenever possible.

🚫 Using them after your spray tan will likely remove or significantly fade your color.

✨ Dermaplaning (Face)

Dermaplaning removes dead skin and peach fuzz.

✔ Schedule 2–3 days BEFORE your spray tan appointment.

This creates a smooth canvas and helps your facial tan develop evenly.

🤎 Southern Glow Tip

For the longest-lasting, most even results, complete all hair removal before your appointment whenever possible. Freshly exfoliated skin creates the perfect canvas for a flawless spray tan.

🖋️ New Tattoos

🚫 Do not spray tan over a new tattoo.

Wait until your tattoo is completely healed before receiving a spray tan. Healing typically takes 2–4 weeks, but larger or more detailed tattoos may take longer. A fresh tattoo is an open wound and should never be spray tanned.

🖤 Existing Healed Tattoos

✔ Spray tanning over fully healed tattoos is perfectly safe.

Your tattoo may temporarily appear slightly darker or more vibrant because the surrounding skin has a healthy glow.

✍️ Permanent Makeup

Nano Brows • Powder Brows • Microblading • Lip Blush • Permanent Eyeliner

✔ Schedule these procedures before your spray tan whenever possible.

🚫 Do not spray tan over fresh permanent makeup.

Wait until the treated area is fully healed and no longer peeling before receiving a spray tan. Healing time varies, but most clients should wait 2–6 weeks, depending on their artist’s recommendations.

Your spray tan should be the last self-care appointment before your event whenever possible.

Many beauty services exfoliate the skin, introduce oils or lotions, or create friction that can affect how your spray tan develops or wears. Here’s my recommended timeline so you can plan your next spray tan accordingly.

If your provider gives you aftercare instructions that differ from these recommendations, always follow your healthcare provider, dermatologist, tattoo artist, hairstylists or esthetician’s instructions first!!

💇‍♀️ Hair Appointments

Color, highlights, cuts, gloss, extensions, & blowouts

✔ Schedule before your spray tan whenever possible.

Hair color, shampooing, and rinsing may expose your skin to water and products that can affect a fresh spray tan.

💅 Manicures & Pedicures

✔ Schedule before your spray tan if possible.

If your spray tan comes first:

• Skip exfoliating scrubs.

• Avoid soaking your hands or feet for long periods.

• Ask your nail technician to avoid lotions and oils if possible.

👁️ Brows

Waxing, threading, tinting & lamination

✔ Schedule 24–48 hours BEFORE your spray tan.

Waxing and threading remove dead skin cells and can remove a fresh spray tan.

✨ Lash Extensions

✔ Can be done before your spray tan. Try to avoid getting your face excessively wet immediately afterward.

✨ Lash Lift & Tint

✔ Schedule 24 hours BEFORE your spray tan.

🧴 Facials

✔ Schedule 5–7 days BEFORE your spray tan ( depends on the facial ). Many facials include exfoliation, acids, steam, masks, and facial massage that can affect your tan.

🍋 Chemical Peels

✔ Wait until your skin has completely healed.

Most clients should schedule peels 2–4 weeks BEFORE their spray tan, depending on the depth of the peel and their provider’s recommendations.

✨ Microneedling

✔ Schedule at least 7 days BEFORE your spray tan. Microneedling temporarily creates tiny channels in the skin, making it more sensitive.
Wait until your skin has completely healed.

💥 IPL / Laser Treatments

✔ Schedule 1–2 weeks BEFORE your spray tan. Your skin should be fully healed without redness or sensitivity.

💉 Botox & Fillers

✔ Schedule 24–48 hours BEFORE your spray tan. This allows injection sites to close and reduces the risk of irritation.

❤️ Red Light Therapy

✔ Can be performed before your spray tan.

🤎 At Southern Glow Co., I recommend 10–12 minutes of red light therapy immediately before your spray tan with me ( in studio ) to support healthy, hydrated skin and create the perfect canvas for your custom glow.

🤎 Southern Glow Tip

✨ Whenever possible, complete all waxing, facials, laser treatments, nails, brows, lashes, and other beauty services before your spray tan. Your spray tan should be your LAST beauty appointment before your event. Doing so helps ensure the most even development, longest-lasting results, and a flawless glow.

Can I Get a Spray Tan After Plastic Surgery?

Yes, once you are completely healed and medically cleared. If you have had a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, liposuction, body lift, mommy makeover or another cosmetic procedure, please tell us during your consultation.

Why? Because surgically altered skin does not always behave exactly like the skin surrounding it.

YOUR SKIN HAS BEEN ALTERED

Depending on the procedure, skin and underlying tissue may have been stretched, tightened, repositioned, removed or otherwise altered. Surgery can also change skin tension, texture, sensation, pigmentation and scar formation.

That matters during a spray tan.

DHA develops through a reaction with amino acids in the dead cells of the outermost layer of your skin. If the surface characteristics of one area are different from another, the finished color may not always develop exactly the same way.

WHY WON’T THAT AREA GET AS DARK?

This is something we occasionally see with surgically altered skin. A client may develop beautifully everywhere else but notice that the abdomen after a tummy tuck, breasts augmentation, reduction, or lift, or an area treated with liposuction simply does not appear to take color as deeply as the surrounding skin.

Other times, an altered area may grab more color or fade differently. And sometimes there is absolutely no noticeable difference at all.

Every body heals differently.

If an area isn’t developing as deeply, simply applying more and more DHA is not always the answer. Oversaturating the skin can create an unnatural result without correcting the underlying difference. Our goal is to recognize how your skin is responding and create the most natural looking blend possible.

WHAT ABOUT SURGICAL SCARS?

Scars can behave differently too. Scar tissue may have a different texture, thickness and pigmentation than the surrounding skin. Some scars take DHA beautifully. Others may develop lighter, darker or remain more visible after a spray tan.

A spray tan may help soften the appearance and contrast of some scars, but it cannot erase scar tissue or guarantee that a scar will perfectly match the surrounding skin.

HOW SOON AFTER SURGERY CAN I SPRAY TAN?

Southern Glow Co. will never spray over an incision that is open, healing, scabbed, draining, significantly irritated or not completely closed.

There is no single waiting period that applies to every surgery or every client. Your surgeon knows the procedure performed, how you are healing and when your skin is ready for cosmetic products. If your surgery was recent, medical clearance may be required before your spray tan appointment.

Compression garments, surgical tape, adhesives, scar treatments and post surgical skincare can also affect your preparation and should be discussed before your appointment.

PLEASE TELL US

You never need to feel uncomfortable telling us that you’ve had cosmetic surgery. We are not asking because we are judging your body.

We are asking because it helps us understand your skin.

A tummy tuck scar, breast augmentation, C section, liposuction or body contouring procedure may give us valuable information when an area is developing differently than expected. Sometimes your skin isn’t being difficult. It is simply different skin than it was before surgery. And that is exactly why your Southern Glow is customized.

Your skin does not behave exactly the same every day.

Have you ever received the same spray tan you normally get and wondered: Why didn’t I get as dark this time? Why did my tan develop differently? Why did it fade faster? It may not be the solution.

Your skin is influenced by what is happening inside your body, too. Hormonal changes can affect hydration, oil production, sweating, pigmentation, sensitivity, collagen, elasticity and overall skin barrier function.

Because a spray tan develops through a reaction between DHA and the outermost layer of your skin, changes in your skin can sometimes mean changes in the way your tan develops, wears or fades.

That does not mean hormones will affect every spray tan or every person the same way. It simply means they are another piece of the puzzle when we are trying to understand your skin.

 YOUR PERIOD

Yes, your menstrual cycle can affect your skin. Estrogen and progesterone fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, and those hormonal changes can influence oil production, hydration, sensitivity, breakouts and other characteristics of the skin.

You can absolutely get a spray tan while you’re on your period.

You may simply notice that your skin or spray tan behaves a little differently during certain parts of your cycle. If you consistently notice that your tan does not develop as deeply, fades differently or your skin becomes more sensitive around your period, tell us. Patterns like that are helpful when customizing future appointments.

 POSTPARTUM

Your hormones do not immediately return to their pre pregnancy state the moment your baby arrives. The postpartum period involves another major hormonal transition. Estrogen and progesterone drop significantly after delivery, and your body is simultaneously recovering from pregnancy and childbirth.

You may notice changes in dryness, sensitivity, sweating, pigmentation, texture or overall skin behavior.

Your body has also physically changed. Stretching of the abdominal skin, stretch marks, a C section scar and other postpartum changes can all create areas that may develop or fade differently. None of this means you cannot have a beautiful spray tan.

It simply means your postpartum skin may not behave exactly like your pre pregnancy skin did.

 BREASTFEEDING

Breastfeeding brings another hormonal environment into the picture. Prolactin remains elevated to support milk production, while estrogen may remain lower, particularly with frequent or exclusive breastfeeding. Some clients may experience increased dryness, sensitivity or other skin changes during this time.

Breastfeeding itself does not tell us exactly how your spray tan will develop, but it is helpful information during your consultation. There are also practical considerations when spray tanning while nursing, particularly because your baby’s mouth and skin may come into contact with your chest.

Always tell us if you are currently breastfeeding so we can discuss your application and aftercare before your appointment.

 PERIMENOPAUSE

Perimenopause can begin years before your final menstrual period. During this transition, estrogen and progesterone can fluctuate significantly rather than simply declining in a straight line. That is one reason skin can suddenly seem like it has developed a personality of its own.

You may notice changes in dryness, oil production, sensitivity, temperature regulation, sweating, pigmentation or texture.You may also find that the spray tan routine that worked beautifully for you for years suddenly needs a little adjustment.

That is okay. Your skin changed. Your spray tan can change with it.

 MENOPAUSE

Menopause brings another significant change to the skin. Declining estrogen is associated with changes in collagen, elasticity, hydration and skin thickness. Skin may become thinner, drier or more delicate with age and hormonal change.

For spray tanning, hydration becomes especially important. Dry or delicate areas can sometimes develop or fade differently, so your solution selection, preparation and aftercare may need to evolve along with your skin.

Getting older does not mean giving up your spray tan. It means understanding the skin you have now instead of treating it exactly like the skin you had ten or twenty years ago.

 HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

Taking estrogen, progesterone or other hormone replacement therapy can also influence the skin. If you recently started HRT, stopped it, changed your dose or changed the type of hormone therapy you use, you may notice changes in your skin over time.

That does not mean HRT will automatically change your spray tan. It simply gives us another piece of information when something about your skin or your usual development seems different.

 TESTOSTERONE

Testosterone can affect the skin as well. Testosterone therapy can increase oil production and contribute to acne in some people. Changes in sweating, skincare routines or medications being used to manage acne may also become relevant to your spray tan.

Taking prescribed testosterone does not mean you cannot spray tan. Just let us know.

 BIRTH CONTROL & OTHER HORMONAL MEDICATIONS

Birth control and other medications that alter hormone levels may affect the skin too. Not everyone will notice a difference, and there is no universal rule that a particular medication will make your spray tan lighter, darker or fade faster.

But if something about your skin suddenly changes, new medications and hormonal changes are worth considering. Please never stop, skip or change a prescribed medication because of a spray tan.

 THE BIG PICTURE

Periods. Pregnancy. Postpartum. Breastfeeding. Perimenopause. Menopause. HRT. Testosterone. Birth control.

Your hormones change throughout your life, and your skin changes with them.

There is not a scientific formula that says being on your period will make your spray tan two shades lighter or menopause will make DHA develop a certain way. Human skin is much more complicated than that.

What we do know is that hormones influence many of the characteristics of the skin that matter when we spray tan. So if your usual color suddenly develops differently, tell us what has changed.

Sometimes the answer isn’t that you need more DHA. Sometimes we need to look at your hydration, skincare, medications, hormones, skin condition, preparation and aftercare and adjust your glow accordingly.

Your body changes. Your skin changes. Your glow can change with it. 

Southern Glow Co. accepts pregnant clients with additional precautions and a modified application protocol.

Southern Glow Co. does not recommend professional spray tanning during the first trimester. Pregnancy specific research involving inhalation of aerosolized DHA is limited, so we prefer a more cautious approach during early pregnancy.

After the first trimester, pregnant clients may book with written approval from their OB/GYN prior to the appointment. This approval is required even if you have spray tanned before pregnancy or have previously received a spray tan at Southern Glow Co.

OB/GYN APPROVAL REQUIRED

Please speak with your OB/GYN about professional spray tanning before booking. Your provider knows your pregnancy, medical history and individual risk factors better than we do. A written note or documented approval from your OB/GYN is required before your appointment.

If you have a high risk pregnancy, pregnancy complications or your provider recommends avoiding spray tanning, Southern Glow Co. will not perform the service.

ADDITIONAL PREGNANCY PRECAUTIONS

All pregnant clients follow The Southern Glow Pregnancy Protocol™. A nose plug is required during body application to help reduce inhalation of airborne spray. It is gently removed for facial application so the face can be carefully sprayed and blended without leaving a harsh line around the nose. Our professional three fan extraction system with HEPA filtration is used throughout the spray tanning process to help capture airborne overspray.

Pregnant clients are also powdered differently. Instead of powder being applied with the Bespoke blower, finishing powder is gently applied by hand using a traditional powder brush. These additional precautions are intended to reduce unnecessary airborne exposure. They cannot eliminate exposure completely or guarantee that professional spray tanning during pregnancy is risk free.

WHY THE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS?

DHA creates your spray tan by reacting with amino acids in the dead cells of the outermost layer of the skin. Professional spray tanning, however, also creates an airborne mist. That is why Southern Glow Co. takes pregnancy a little differently. No rushing. No skipping precautions. No exceptions to the OB/GYN approval requirement.

Your glow matters, but so does knowing when to take a few extra precautions.

Don’t panic! Most spray tan mishaps are common and many have a simple solution.

💦 I Started Sweating Before My First Rinse
Small amounts of perspiration are usually okay during development. If you notice sweat beads:
✔ Gently blot area with a clean, dry towel or makeup brush to blend together
🚫 Do not rub or rinse tan off
🚫 Do not wipe area repeatedly.

💧 Water Splashed On Me
Small water droplets usually aren’t a disaster during a development . If you notice a water spot:
✔ If you have Glow Veil™, lightly mist the area and gently blend the cosmetic bronzer using clean soft makeup sponge, or a brush.

If you don’t have Glow Veil™, you may use a gentle, alcohol-free facial mist such as:

• Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater
• Avène Thermal Spring Water
• La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
• Evian Facial Spray

🚫 Do not scrub or repeatedly wipe the area.

🌧 I Got Caught in the Rain
Light rain usually won’t ruin your spray tan.
✔ Gently blot the area with a makeup brush to move the solution around evenly

If you don’t have Glow Veil™, you may use a gentle, alcohol-free facial mist such as:

• Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater
• Avène Thermal Spring Water
• La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
• Evian Facial Spray

🚫 Do not scrub or repeatedly wipe the area.
🚫 Don’t wipe.

👙 My Bra Left Marks
Pressure and friction can leave temporary marks during development. This is why I advise to not wear a bra during development ! Sometimes they disappear as your tan continues developing.

👜 My Purse or Backpack Rubbed My Shoulder
Friction can remove cosmetic bronzer or affect development.
If it’s still during your development window:
✔ Gently blend the surrounding bronzer with clean brush if possible.


🐶 My Dog Licked My Leg
Saliva is acidic and may affect a developing spray tan. Blot the area gently

✔ If you have Glow Veil™, lightly mist the area and gently blend the cosmetic bronzer using clean fingertips, a soft makeup sponge, or a kabuki brush.

If you don’t have Glow Veil™, you may use a gentle, alcohol-free facial mist such as:

• Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater
• Avène Thermal Spring Water
• La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
• Evian Facial Spray

🚫 Do not scrub or repeatedly wipe the area if your tan is still developing. Wearing loose long sleeved pants are advised with pets during development.

👶 My Child Touched My Tan
Most of the time this isn’t a problem.
Unless they rubbed repeatedly or had wet hands. Wearing loose long sleeved pants and planning accordingly can prevent this .

😭 I Cried
Tears may remove cosmetic bronzer around your eyes or cheeks.
Don’t scrub. Allow your tan to continue developing.

✔ If you have Glow Veil™, lightly mist the area and gently blend the cosmetic bronzer using clean soft makeup sponge,microfiber or brush.

If you don’t have Glow Veil™, you may use a gentle, alcohol-free facial mist such as:

• Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs & Rosewater
• Avène Thermal Spring Water
• La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
• Evian Facial Spray

🚫 Do not scrub or repeatedly wipe the area.

😱 My Tan Looks Orange
After your first rinse, your DHA continues developing for up to 24 hours, with your final color settling over the next 24–48 hours.

💡 Check Your Lighting

Not all lighting is created equal!

💡 Warm LED lighting, yellow bulbs, vanity lights, and dim bathrooms can make your tan appear warmer or more orange than it actually is.

☀️ Natural daylight provides the most accurate representation of your final color.

🤎 Southern Glow Tip: Before worrying about your tan, step outside or stand near a window with natural light. You’ll usually see a much truer representation of your color.

📸 If you’re still concerned AFTER 48 hours, send me a few photos in natural daylight so I can accurately assess your results.

😳 I Look Too Light After My First Rinse
Completely normal! Rapid, clear or classic solutions continue developing for up to 24 hours, and your final color may continue settling over 24–48 hours. Your Soapy shower will rinse off the last bit of bronzer
Trust the process. 🤎

🤎 My Tan Looks Patchy
Patchiness is most commonly caused by:
• Dry skin, dehydration , poor or even over exfoliation
• Friction or heavy sweating
• Poor Spray Tan Prep and/or Aftercare
• Leftover cosmetic bronzer
• Certain skincare products used prior or during your tan
• Your skin’s natural exfoliation, cell turn over , or skin’s chemistry

🦵 My Knees, Elbows, Hands or Feet Are Darker
This is one of the most common questions. These areas naturally can absorb more DHA because the skin is thicker and drier. Moisturize daily to help them fade evenly.

👃 My Underarms Look Green or Dark
This is usually caused by deodorant buildup reacting with the skin or leftover cosmetic bronzer (not your spray tan solution) Gently cleanse the area during your shower and avoid heavy deodorant buildup.

🤍 I Have White Spots
White spots can happen from:
✔ Dry skin

✔ Water droplets during development

✔ Pressure or friction

✔ Leftover lotion, deodorant, or product residue

✔ Missed areas during application (rare, but possible)

✔ Areas where adhesive, bandages, clothing tape/glue, or KT tape

✔ Natural variations in your skin

✔ Certain skin conditions that don’t absorb DHA evenly, such as:

• Vitiligo
• Tinea versicolor (a common fungal skin condition)
• Hypopigmented scars
• Areas of eczema after they’ve healed (post-inflammatory hypopigmentation)
• Psoriasis plaques or recently healed psoriasis
• Very dry, flaky patches of skin

🤎 Southern Glow Tip: DHA develops in the outermost layer of dead skin cells. If an area doesn’t have a normal, healthy skin barrieror has less pigment naturally it may not develop the same color as the surrounding skin.

🤎 My Tan Looks Streaky

Don’t panic! Streaking can happen for several reasons and does not automatically mean there was a problem with your spray tan application. For example:

• Poor prep (leftover skincare, lotion, deodorant, makeup, mineral sunscreen, body oils, moisture strip razors, oil based scrubs or even self-tanner)
• Not fully rinsing away the cosmetic bronzer after your first water shower
• Friction during development (sweating, tight clothing, crossing your legs, sleeping in certain positions, or carrying a purse or backpack against your skin)
• Your skin itself (very dry skin, eczema, keratosis pilaris (KP), healing skin, recent shaving, or other areas that absorb DHA differently)

Remember the artist controls the application. Your skin controls the development.

🚿 My Tan Is Washing Off!
Don’t panic! The brown water you’re seeing in the first 48 hrs is your cosmetic color guide bronzer, not your spray tan. Your DHA continues developing for up to 24-48 hours

🎩 THE SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN™

Custom Spray Tanning for Men

Yes, gentlemen get spray tans too. Whether you want a little color before vacation, want to look more defined for an event or photos, or simply prefer looking a little less pale, your glow is customized to you. At Southern Glow Co., men’s spray tans are designed to look natural not orange, overly dark, or like you obviously got a spray tan.

Natural. Masculine. Customized.

WHY MEN GET SPRAY TANS

A custom spray tan can help:

• Add natural-looking color
• Enhance muscle definition
• Even the appearance of skin tone
• Give you a little extra confidence for vacations, weddings, photos and special events
• Create a healthier-looking glow without UV exposure

You don’t have to be getting ready for a bodybuilding competition to get sprayed. Sometimes you just want to look good. We support that around here. 😂

WHAT TO EXPECT

If you’ve never had a spray tan before, don’t worry. I’ll walk you through everything. We’ll talk about your skin tone, how dark you want to be, what you’re tanning for, and what kind of result you’re looking for before we ever start spraying. I’ll also demonstrate every position before your session so you’re never standing there wondering what you’re supposed to do. Your color is selected and customized specifically for your skin there is no one-shade-fits-all around here.

WHAT DO I WEAR?

Underwear is required for all male clients.

You may wear briefs, boxer briefs or another fitted undergarment you’re comfortable being sprayed in. Please choose something you don’t mind potentially getting a little solution on. Nudity is not permitted during men’s spray tan appointments. No open button boxers or front exposure of gentiles allowed.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

For the best possible result:

• Shower the night before or up to 6 hours before your appointment. Please shave 24 hours ahead (face/facial hair, chest, back, or anywhere hair will create a thick dense barrier) As well as exfoliate your entire body with a mitt or dry brush 24 hours before your appointment
• Avoid Dove products, bar soaps, and heavily moisturizing/oily body washes before your tan
• Arrive with clean, dry skin
• No lotion, deodorant, cologne, oils, skincare, or other products on the skin
• Wear loose, dark comfy clothing and easy-to-remove shoes afterward. No jeans, tight clothes, hats, sunglasses, or cinched cuffed pants. Think oversized shirt, long loose pants, and slide on shoes

Don’t worry you’ll receive detailed prep and aftercare instructions before your appointment.

AFTER YOUR SPRAY TAN

You’ll need to keep your skin dry and avoid sweating until it’s time for your first rinse. Your specific rinse time depends on the solution used during your appointment, so I’ll tell you exactly when to rinse before you leave. After your first “water” rinse, hydration is key. Proper aftercare helps your tan develop evenly, last longer and fade more naturally.

WHICH GLOW SHOULD I BOOK?

Not sure? That’s completely fine. Tell me what you’re tanning for, your normal skin tone, how dark you’d like to be and how quickly you need to rinse. I’ll help you choose the right Southern Gentleman™ glow for you.

Ready to glow, gentleman? 🎩

You already put in the work.

A little color just makes it show better.

Your First Time Client Bag is filled with carefully selected products and tools to help you maintain your glow, troubleshoot common issues and get the most out of your spray tan.

 Exfoliating Mitt

Your exfoliating mitt is perfect for preparing your skin before your next appointment.

Use it to:

 Remove your previous spray tan

 Exfoliate 24 hours before your next spray tan

 Gently buff stubborn areas that naturally hold onto color longer, including your hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles and feet

 Southern Glow Tip: Let the mitt do the work. Gentle exfoliation is all you need. No harsh scrubbing.

 60 Second Tan Remover

Perfect for blending and softening areas that naturally hold onto color longer or develop darker than the rest of your tan.

Great for:

 Hands

 Wrists

 Elbows

 Knees

 Ankles

 Feet

 Small areas that need blending

 Removing leftover spray tan before your next appointment

 Southern Glow Tip: Apply a small amount to clean dry skin. Let it sit for a few minutes and gently buff the area  with your wet mitt until it blends naturally with the surrounding skin.

 Pro Hack: Softening darker areas while allowing lighter areas to catch up creates a more even fade and helps your overall tan look beautiful for longer.

 Mini Scoop

Your mini scoop helps dispense just the right amount of product without making a mess.

 Facial Tanning Water

Your Facial Tanning Water is your secret weapon for maintaining your glow between appointments.

Perfect for:

 Refreshing your face

 Touching up areas that fade faster

 Blending small areas that need a little extra color

 Extending the life of your spray tan without tanning your entire body again

 Apply with your Kabuki Brush using light, circular motions for the most natural looking finish.

 Kabuki Brush

Your Kabuki Brush helps create seamless, natural looking touch ups.

Use it to:

 Blend Facial Tanning Water

 Buff small touch up areas

 Blend your hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles and feet

 Create a flawless finish without harsh lines

 Signature Setting Powder with Panthenol B5

This ultra fine finishing powder helps reduce friction while leaving your skin feeling soft, dry and comfortable.

Perfect for:

 Cowboy boots

 Socks and compression socks

 Tennis shoes

 Flip flops

 Bra lines

 Waistbands

 Underarms

 Between the thighs

 Under the bust

 Anywhere skin rubs together

 Reapply anytime you need extra comfort or friction protection.

 Powder Puff

Your powder puff makes applying your Signature Setting Powder quick and mess free.

Perfect for:

 Bra lines

 Underarms

 Between the thighs

 Under the bust

 Behind the knees

 Inside boots or shoes

 Anywhere friction is expected

 Microfiber Cloth

Keep this handy during development. Use it to gently blot, not rub, sweat, water droplets, tears or moisture after washing your hands. A gentle pat helps protect your developing tan and minimize streaks.

 Southern Glow Tip: When in doubt, blot it out!

 Lip Balm

Keep your lips soft and hydrated before, during and after your appointment. Dry lips are common, especially after spending time in air conditioning, the sun or wind. Apply as often as needed for extra hydration.