Spray Tan Prep + Aftercare: Key to a Flawless, Long Lasting Glow
If you want a flawless tan that develops evenly and you get the most longevity, the work starts before your appointment and continues after your first rinse. Here’s exactly what to do and what to avoid.
4-5 days before
Book other services first.
Waxing: at least 24 hours before your tan.
Shaving: ideally 12–24 hours before; if you must shave day-of, keep at least 3-4 hours before your appointment.
Book any facials, nail and massage appointments before your spray tan (if massage ensure no oil residue is left on your body before the tan)
Pause actives. Stop retinol, glycolic acid, and other resurfacing serums 4-5 days prior. Vitamin C is fine until the day before.
Hydrate. Drink water and moisturize daily in the days leading up to your tan. Hydrated skin holds color better and fades nicer.
The day before
Exfoliate properly. Use a real exfoliating mitt (vs loofahs and dry brushes that don’t remove enough dry skin). Avoid exfoliants with oils in them. Exfoliate 12–24 hours before your appointment.
Moisturize. Keep skin comfortable, but skip heavy oils. Don’t moisturize right before your tan; if you’re very dry, light moisturizer is okay at least 4 hours before not right before so it has time to absorb.
Day-of checklist
Arrive clean: no makeup, deodorant, lotion, body oil, or perfume (we will have baby wipes if needed).
Wear loose, dark clothing. Think oversized tee and joggers. Bring slides or clogs. If it’s raining, add loose socks and rain boots.
Mind your rinse window. Our regular 24 Karat tan - rinse in 8–12 hours. Our Glow on the Go express formula you can rinse in 2–6 hours. Full color/spray tan development shows at the 24-hour mark in both cases.
Right after your appointment
Protect your tan development. Avoid sweat, water, and friction. If you sleep in your tan, wear loose long sleeves and pants and avoid skin-to-skin contact.
First rinse matters. Lukewarm water only. No soap. Rinse until water runs clear, then gently pat dry. No scrubbing or loofahs.
The next 7 days
Moisturize daily. Choose gentle, tan-friendly formulas. Avoid heavy mineral oil, sulfates, or petroleum.
Quick, warm showers. Skip long hot soaks and baths. Always pat dry (avoid exfoliating with a towel).
Be choosy with skincare. Hold off on retinol and strong acids while you’re wearing the tan. Spray perfume on clothing, not directly on skin.
Pools and hot tubs fade color fast. If some areas fade from sweat or friction, even them out at the end of the week with a light exfoliation.
When to skip or reschedule
Microneedling in the last week
Sunburn or peeling in the last month
Any active irritation or compromised skin barrier
Classic vs Rapid: which should I book?
24 Karat: 8–12 hour rinse window
Glow on the Go/In the Clear: 2–6 hour rinse window
FAQs
Q: Will the solution stain clothes or sheets?
A: The cosmetic guide/bronzer can transfer before your rinse to your sheets. Wear dark, loose layers. It washes out easily because they are water based.
Q: What body wash should I use?
A: Use a gentle, tan-safe wash without harsh surfactants or heavy oils.
Q: How do I remove the tan at the end?
A: Use an exfoliating mitt in the shower to lift remaining color and reset the skin before your next appointment.
Ready to book? Book your spray tan. Want the printable checklist? See our Spray Tan Care page.