A flawless spray tan can boost your confidence and leave you glowing, but preparation is essential to achieving that perfect bronzed look. The secret to an even, streak-free tan lies in how well you prepare your skin beforehand. A little effort before your appointment can make all the difference.
Proper preparation helps ensure your spray tan blends seamlessly, lasts longer, and fades evenly. Whether you’re heading to a big event, a vacation, or simply want a gorgeous tan, following a few simple steps can maximize your results.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know to get the most out of your spray tan experience.
Why It’s Important to Know How to Prepare for a Spray Tan
Think preparation doesn’t matter? Think again. Poor prep can lead to patchy areas, streaks, and a tan that fades unevenly. Not only can it ruin your look, but it can also make your tan seem unnatural or uneven in photographs (and nobody wants that). Properly prepping your skin ensures that the tanning solution binds well, delivering a smooth, streak-free finish that lasts longer.
Top Ten Tips to Help You Prepare for a Spray Tan
Follow these top ten tips to help you prepare for a spray tan, and you’ll turn heads for all the right reasons. Here’s everything from pre-spray sunscreen habits to essential post-tan steps covered in one place.
1. Develop a Pre-Spray Tan Skincare Routine
Skincare is your best friend when preparing for a spray tan. Hydrated, clean, and healthy skin ensures smooth and even application. Begin your routine days before your appointment by hydrating and avoiding harsh skincare products like retinoids or acids that may create sensitivity.
2. Schedule Your Waxing and Shaving in Advance
Ensure you wax or shave at least 24 hours before your spray tan. This allows enough time for your skin to recover and avoid any potential complications during the tanning process.
Waxing or shaving too close to your spray tan appointment can result in unwanted consequences, such as brown spots or streaks, due to the open hair follicles absorbing the tanning solution. To avoid this, make sure to wax or shave at least 24 hours before your scheduled spray tan session.
Planning ahead also gives you enough time to treat any potential irritation or redness that may occur after waxing. This ensures that your skin is smooth and ready to receive the tanning solution.
3. Learn How to Exfoliate Before a Spray Tan
Exfoliation is key to an even tan. Use a body scrub or exfoliation mitt to slough off dead skin cells atleast 24 hours before your spray tan session. Focus on rough areas like your elbows, knees, and ankles. Avoid oil-based exfoliants, as they can create a barrier on your skin. Avoid exfoliating the day of your spray tan as this can irritate your skin.
4. Cleanse Your Skin Thoroughly
Before heading to your appointment, cleanse your skin of oils, lotions, deodorants, and perfumes. These can block the tanning solution from absorbing into the skin, leading to uneven patches. For best results, use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh chemicals that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
5. Avoid Heavy Lotions Beforehand
One of the common things to avoid before a spray tan includes using heavy lotions on your skin on the day of the appointment. While moisturized skin is important, using lotions on the day of your tan can interfere with an even application. The lotion can act as a barrier and prevent the tanning solution from being fully absorbed into your skin, causing streaks and patches. It’s best to keep your skin well-moisturized in the days leading up to your appointment, but avoid applying any heavy lotions on the day of.
6. Wear Loose, Dark Clothing to Your Appointment
Choose loose-fitting clothes and avoid wearing anything tight that might rub against your skin after your tan, like tight bras or underwear that may cause unwanted tan lines. It’s a good idea to bring dark clothes to change into after your appointment to avoid staining on lighter garments.
7. Don’t Forget to Protect Your Nails
If you’ve just had a manicure or pedicure, you can apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or lotion to your nails. This prevents the tanning solution from staining them and ensures your fresh mani stays picture-perfect.
8. Avoid Sweat and Water Post-Application
After your spray tan session, avoid swimming or showering for at least 8-10 hours to allow the solution to fully develop. This step is non-negotiable for the best results. Additionally, try to avoid heavy physical activity that may cause sweating during this time.
9. Know How to Prep for a Spray Tan Based on Skin Tone
Every skin type is unique. If you have dry or sensitive skin, focus on hydration and gentle exfoliation. For those with oily skin, pay extra attention to cleansing before your appointment.
10. Plan for Maintenance
A spray tan isn’t set-and-forget. Apply a gradual tanning lotion or oil-free moisturizer to maintain the look. Exfoliate lightly every few days to ensure an even fade. Stay away from hot showers and harsh scrubs post-tan.
Spray Tan Preparation Checklist
For those who like easy-to-follow lists, here’s a spray tan preparation checklist you can reference before your appointment:
Exfoliate your body 1-2 days prior.
Wax or shave 24 hours in advance.
Avoid applying lotion, deodorant, or makeup on the day of your tan.
Wear loose, dark clothes and flip-flops to your appointment.
Protect your fresh manicure or pedicure with a clear topcoat.
Be ready to avoid water, sweat, or tight clothes post-application.
Save this list and check off each task for foolproof prep.
Best Way to Get Ready for a Spray Tan Based on Your Occasion
Your reason for getting a spray tan can influence your preparation. Here’s how to tweak your routine based on specific occasions to get optimal results.
Brides-to-Be
You’ll want your tan to be at its peak for your wedding day. Book your appointment 2-3 days before the ceremony, ensuring any potential unevenness has time to settle. Be cautious of going too dark and aim for a subtle, bridal glow.
Fitness Competitors
Competitors often opt for darker tans to emphasize muscle definition on stage. Be extra meticulous with your exfoliation to ensure smooth adhesion across your body.
Vacation-Goers
Planning a tropical getaway? Book your tan at least 48 hours before boarding the plane, so you can fully shower and set the pigment before soaking up the sun.
Teen Prom Attendees
For prom-goers, keep it light and natural. A tan that’s too dark can overpower your youthful glow in photos.
Content Creators and Influencers
If you’re aiming to look flawless under the camera, opt for a mid-tone shade that complements your overall aesthetic. Make sure to get plenty of natural lighting photos to highlight your tan.
Conclusion
Spray tans are the ultimate quick-fix for radiant, glowing skin. But as you now know, the secret to a flawless look lies in preparation. From proper skincare to essential spray tan tips you need to know, the more effort you put into pre-tan care, the better the results.
No matter your occasion, follow this guide on how to prepare for a spray tan, and you’ll be stepping out with the perfect glow in no time.
