Spray Tan Prep guide

Exfoliate & shave 

Exfoliate and shave 24 hours before your spray tan. If you wax this must be done 48 hours before your spray tan. 

Use a gentle oil free scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin. 

This step MUST be done at least 24 hours before, please do no exfoliate on the day of your spray tan. 

Avoid Moisturisers, Oils, Deodorant & Perfume 

Do not apply any moisturisers, lotions, or oils on the day of your spray tan. 

This can create a barrier, causing the spray tan to apply unevenly or cause issues with development. 

NO deodorant or perfumes on the day. This can cause green underarms, and perfume can cause blotchiness, which may lead to uneven results.

Wear Loose, Dark Clothing & Remove Jewellery 

Tight clothes may rub off your tan, and dark clothing prevents any potential staining. 

If it is raining please wear clothing that will protect the tan and bring an umbrella. 

Arrive Clean & Dry 

Please arrive at your appointment clean, dry, and makeup-free as per the prep instructions. 

If you have applied deodorant, makeup, or perfume please let me know as soon as possible. Although this is not ideal and may effect the tan we do have wipes available for you to use. 

Hydrate  

Keep your skin moisturized in the days before your spray tan for best results.

Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.

Avoid Sun Exposure 

Avoid tanning or sunbathing for at least 48 hours before your spray tan. Sun exposure can dry out your skin, leading to an uneven tan.

Unfortunately, spray tans cannot fully disguise tan lines, so please avoid this as much as possible leading up to a special event like a wedding.

First Rinse 

Rinse off at the time advised. We use rapid tans so usually 1-4 hours or 6 max for our dark tan girlies. Use lukewarm water only, no hot showers.

No soaps, body wash, shampoo, or conditioner during your first rinse. These can interfere with the development process.

You will see bronzer washing away, don’t panic! This is normal. Your actual tan will continue to develop over the next 12–24 hours.

Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, no rubbing.

Cleansing After the First Rinse 

Use a gentle, sulfate-free, oil-free body wash only. Harsh soaps and oils will strip your tan.

Avoid long, hot showers or soaking in baths. These dry out your skin and fade your tan faster.

No exfoliating or using scrubbing tools until your tan starts to fade naturally.

Continue to pat dry after showers.

Moisturise

Start moisturising 12–24 hours after your first rinse and then continue to moisturise morning and night.

Use an oil-free, tan-friendly basic moisturiser - CeraVe moisturising lotion is great!

Hydrated skin helps your tan fade evenly and last longer.

Top up your glow mid-week with a gradual tanning moisturiser to extend the longevity.

Things to Avoid

No sweating or exercising during the development period. Sweat can cause streaks and patches.

No tight clothes, bras, or socks immediately after tanning as these can rub your tan off before it sets.

Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and ocean water as chlorine and salt will remove your tan quickly.

No waxing, shaving, or exfoliating for at least 48 hours post-tan.

How long will my spray tan last? 

Your tan will typically last 5–10 days, depending on your skin type, aftercare, and how well you prepped. 

Moisturising daily and avoiding harsh products will help it fade evenly and last longer.

Will my tan keep developing after my first shower? 

Yes! The colour continues to develop for up to 24 hours after your rinse. 

Your tan may appear lighter immediately after rinsing, but it will deepen over the day.

Can I get a spray tan while pregnant or breastfeeding? 

Many pregnant and breastfeeding clients safely get spray tans, but always consult with your doctor first. 

If breastfeeding, it’s best to keep the chest area tan free or rinse it off before feeding.

Will I turn orange? 

No! I use professional tanning solutions and your tan will be customised to give you a natural, golden glow. 

My favourite solution is violet which counteracts orange tones or ultra dark which is a mixed base for best results on any skin tone.

What if I accidentally get wet before my first rinse?

Please avoid getting your tan wet. Small water spots may affect your development. If this happens, please contact me as soon as possible for advice.  

Can I shave or wax after my spray tan? 

Please wait 48 hours before shaving, and avoid waxing once your tan is applied. Shaving can fade your tan quicker, so always use a gentle, clean basic razor and plenty of moisturiser. 

Will it stain my sheets or clothes? 

There may be some bronzer transfer onto sheets or clothing before your first rinse, especially with lighter fabrics. 

It usually washes out easily, but stick to dark bedding and loose clothes on tanning day just in case.

When should I book my spray tan? 

1–2 days before your event is ideal.

This gives the tan time to fully develop, settle, and look its best in photos while still being fresh and even.

Can I tan over an old spray tan? 

No, it’s best to remove all remnants of your old tan first to avoid uneven results. 

I recommend exfoliating and hydrating the skin for a few days before your new appointment.

Got any other questions? 

Feel free to send me a message if you have any other questions or concerns.