Prepare for a Spray Tan - In 5 Steps

There is nothing more frustrating than getting a spray tan only to find it peeling after the first time you shower. Luckily, there is something you can do about that. Find out how to prepare for a spray tan and get the most out of your product of choice. If you want to know why tanning and exfoliation are the two words that almost always go together, read on!

1. Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate

Nobody wants their spray tan to look splotchy. This is why exfoliating your skin is important. For an even, smooth tan you should prepare your skin for the spray tan session on the same day.

Use your favorite scrub to exfoliate the skin (non oily scrubs are recommended), and pay close attention to the knees, elbows, and anywhere you may have calluses. Thicker layers of skin absorb a greater quantity of tanned and end up looking darker than the rest of your body.

Make sure you also scrub you shins, chest, neck, and face because these areas consist of thinner skin which is where streaks may show up. If you have any scars or scabs, simply coat them with Vaseline. Tanning that results in a smooth, even, natural-looking tan comes only after exfoliating your skin!

2. Should you remove hair prior to the appointment?

Hair removal is your choice, but in case you want to wax, shave, or have a laser removal session, these sessions must happen at least a couple of days before your tanning appointment. Hair removal of any kind can potentially disrupt the surface of the skin, and that gorgeous spray tan may end up looking uneven.

3. Be sure of the shade you want

There’s nothing worse than getting a shade you don’t want! You don’t want to look too dark, too light, or too orange. The best way to pick a shade is to look at some beach photos – that way you can choose a shade that fits your tan!

4. No fancy underwear, please

A seasoned tanner will know this, but beginners beware! Looking cute is appropriate for almost any occasion, but a spray tan session is not the time.

Most tanners wash out, but you wouldn’t want to accidentally ruin your fave bra (if you decide to wear one). If you don’t have anything that you would risk ruining, you can opt for a disposable underwear and bra. If your local tanning salon doesn't have these, direct them to our online store.

After your skin is dry (roughly 20 minutes after the spray tan), put on some loose clothing and skip the bra for around six hours.

Do not wear leggings or other tight clothing after your session – the pigment can easily transfer, and you may end up with a perfectly tanned top and splotchy looking tan on your skin.

5. Take care of your tan

To make your spray tan last as long as possible, do not get your skin wet for at least the next 8 hours. If you feel tempted to exfoliate – don’t! The spray tan will be scrubbed off along with your dead skin. This also goes for hair removal – removing hair may affect the surface of your skin, which can damage your tan.

Most importantly, moisturize after every shower from head to toe.

Now you don’t have to worry about getting a bad spray tan - you’ve got all the advice you need to prepare for a spray tan and get it right! Choose a shade that will make you look like you’ve just come back from a month at the Caribbean – there is nothing to stop you from having the most dazzling tan in the room!