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Spray Tan 3 min read
How to Prep for a Spray Tan
A little prep is the difference between a good spray tan and a flawless one. Here is the short version.
Key takeaways
- Exfoliate and shave the day before, not the day of.
- Arrive with clean skin: no lotion, makeup, or deodorant.
- Wear loose, dark clothing and bring flip flops.
- Avoid long showers, pools, and heavy sweat while color develops.
The day before
Exfoliate gently to create a smooth, even canvas, paying attention to elbows, knees, and ankles. Shave or wax the day before so pores have time to close.
The day of
Come with clean, bare skin. Skip lotion, makeup, perfume, and deodorant, since these can block color or turn it uneven. Wear loose, dark clothing and bring flip flops so nothing rubs your fresh tan.
While your color develops
Your glow keeps developing for several hours after you leave. Stay dry and cool until your first rinse.
- Avoid long, hot showers and steamy bathrooms
- Stay out of pools and the ocean
- Skip workouts and anything that makes you sweat
- Pat dry, never rub, after your first rinse
Make it last
Moisturize daily and avoid harsh scrubbing. With a little care, a spray tan looks fresh for days and fades softly and naturally. For more, read our guide on how to make your tan last.