In this post I'll cover 9 spray tan tips you should know before receiving your service. If you're anything like me then you love the idea of being tan without the damaging effects of tanning beds or even prolonged sun exposure.
Especially if it is in the dead of winter, and we all know about those winter blues.
To ensure you get the best and most beautiful tan I have provided what I think the the top tips and tricks for looking and feeling your best bronzed self.
When to book your appointment
It is recommended to get your spray tan at least 24 hours before an event or vacation. We want to ensure that the tan has time to fully develop and look natural. With that in mind don't schedule your spray tan more than 2-3 days before the special occasion.
In addition, make sure you book any other beauty services accordingly. Such as manicures, pedicures, waxing, and facials. Ideally those would all happen before your spray tan.
Exfoliation is key
Spray tan solution adheres best to freshly exfoliated and dry skin. So what does that mean for you? Be sure to exfoliate 1-2 days before the appointment with a scrub or exfoliating mitts.
If you do this too close to being sprayed the tan solution won't stick to the skin. We want to slough off all of the dead skin cells to create the perfect base. On the day of your appointment try to keep the skin as clean and dry as possible.
Shave at least 24 hours before
Shaving is a mild form of exfoliation and opens the pores so doing this too close to the appointment will cause the tan to either not settle or become streaky.
And no one wants a streaky tan! Pro tip - use a razor that does not have the moisturizing strip before your tan and for 10 days after your tan.
The moisturizing stip on most razors will strip the tan right off.
Avoid Moisturizers and deodorant
What is the number 1 product to avoid the day of your tan? Lotion! The residue that it leaves behind can react poorly with the tanning solution.
Deodorant is another product to try and avoid the day of. Additionally, if you come in with makeup on let the technician know so that we can give you something to remove it.
Bring dark and loose clothes
Tight clothes such as leggings, long sleeves, and bras are less than ideal post tan. My best word of advise is to wear a dark sundress in the summer and sweatpants with a t shirt in the winter.
Do you have to go braless?
The answer is always yes. As far as underwear it's best to go commando or wearing a loose and dark pair. We don't want that new glow to rub off!
Check the weather forecast
The worst thing that could happen - rain ruining your fresh tan.
Even if there is only a 10% chance of rain I recommend having an umbrella on hand. Also, planning your outfit ahead of time to be sure all body parts are protected from the elements.
Use sunscreen
Just because you "look" tan does not mean you are protected from the sun and its damaging rays. A spray tan gives you a faux glow and doesn't change the melanin of your skin.
So always be sure to wear and reapply SPF 30 or higher. We especially want to cover the precious skin on our face to prevent premature aging.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
Skin that is hydrated will hold on to your spray tan for a longer period of time.
Moisturizing regularly with a non fragranced lotion will also prevent the tan from fading uneven or giving you the dreaded 'chicken skin'.
You can begin using moisturizer 24-48 hours post tan.
Limit time in swimming pools
Chlorine will strip the tan quickly and result in uneven fading. So avoid spending too much time in swimming pools.
This also includes saunas, super hot and long showers, and massages. Just think of it as anything that has a chemical/adhesive or being wet for extended periods of time.
Hopefully you found this post covering spray tan tips helpful and are ready for an amazing faux glow! If you have any further questions or concerns feel free to message me on Instagram or via email.
Depending on the time of year my availability can be limited and spots fill up weeks in advance. So if you have a big event such as a vacation, special occasion, or wedding you'd like your service for I'd recommend booking your spray tan today.
Let's glow together!