Frequently Asked Questions

24–48 Hours Before Your Spray Tan

1. Exfoliate Thoroughly:

Use a gentle exfoliating mitt or scrub to slough off dead skin cells. Pay extra attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and heels. This step ensures a smooth, even canvas for your tan to develop.

2. Avoid Oil-Based Products:

Stay away from oil-based scrubs, body washes, or lotions, as they can leave a residue that blocks the tanning solution from absorbing evenly.

3. Shave or Wax (If Needed):

Shave at least 12–24 hours before your tan, or wax 24–48 hours prior. This gives your skin time to calm down and helps avoid patchiness or irritation.

The Day of Your Appointment 

1. Shower at Least 4 Hours Before:

Make sure to shower and rinse off any products, sweat, or residue. Do not apply any lotion, deodorant, perfume, or makeup before your spray tan, as these can create a barrier and affect how the tan develops.

2. Skip Moisturizer & Deodorant:

Your skin should be clean and dry—free of any skincare or cosmetic products. Even “invisible” deodorant can cause greenish underarm staining in some cases.

3. Wear Loose, Dark Clothing:

After your spray tan, the bronzing solution may transfer to clothing while it develops. Wear loose, breathable, dark-colored clothes and avoid tight bras, leggings, or socks that may rub against the skin.

4. Remove Jewelry:

Take off all necklaces, earrings, and watches before your appointment for the most even application.

First 8–24 Hours (While Your Tan Is Developing)

1. Avoid Water & Sweat:

Stay dry while your tan is developing. This includes avoiding showers, sweating, swimming, or any activity that may cause water or moisture to hit the skin.

2. Don’t Touch Your Skin:

Avoid crossing arms, resting your face on your hands, or skin-on-skin contact that could create uneven patches.

3. Wear Loose, Dark Clothing:

Continue wearing loose-fitting, breathable, dark clothes to avoid rubbing or smudging your developing tan.

4. Follow the Rinse Timeline:

Only rinse off your bronzer when instructed (usually 8–12 hours after application unless you received a rapid formula). Use lukewarm water and skip soaps and scrubs during this first rinse. Just a gentle rinse—no shampoo or body wash yet.

After Your First Rinse

1. Gently Pat Dry: 

After rinsing, pat your skin dry with a towel—don’t rub!

2. No Moisturizer Yet (Unless Instructed):

Avoid applying lotions or oils until 24 hours after your spray tan unless your esthetician advises otherwise.

Daily Maintenance Tips (Days 1–7+)

1. Moisturize Daily:

Hydrated skin = longer-lasting tan. Use a gentle, fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer after the first 24 hours and apply at least twice daily. Avoid oil-based lotions which can break down your tan.

2. Avoid Exfoliation:

No scrubbing or exfoliating for at least a week. This includes loofahs, exfoliating cleansers, and rough towels.

3. Skip Long Hot Showers & Baths:

Hot water can dry out the skin and fade your tan faster. Stick with lukewarm water and short showers.

4. Use Gentle Products:

Avoid products with alcohol, retinol, salicylic acid, or AHAs/BHAs, as these can strip your tan. Opt for sulfate-free, gentle cleansers and body washes.

5. Pat Dry After Showering:

Always gently pat dry instead of rubbing your skin with a towel.

• Chlorine (pools and hot tubs)
• Spray deodorants and heavy perfumes
• Tight clothing, leggings, or bras that may rub
• Excessive sweating (like hot yoga or intense workouts) during the first few days

Text 423-380-1252 and ask for information on spray tans.