spray tan Skin preparation

exfoliate

your skin should be exfoliated with an exfoliation mitt several days prior to your spray tan appointment. using a loofa/sugar scrub does not properly exfoliate your skin. not properly exfoliating will result in patchy fading of your sunless airbrush spray tan.

Wax/shave any unwanted body hair

waxing should be completed 48 hours, while shaving should be done 24-48 hours prior to your appointment. Your shave should be completed with a razor that lacks a moisture strip.

Complete manicure/pedicure

if completed day-of tan, please forego any oils/lotions that your technician might apply on your skin. if completed days after your treatment, your tan may become uneven due to soaking, acetone, oils, lotions, etc. that may be applied on you.

Avoid using any bar soaps or cream based body washes

any bar soaps/cream-based body washes (DOVE products specifically) are known to leave a residue on the skin and can create a barrier that the tan cannot penetrate through the skin and may leave streaks. any gel-based wash is best. showering should be completed 24 hours prior to allow your pH levels to neutralize. If you must shower, please be sure to shower no longer than 4 hours before treatment, and run cold water at the end of your shower to close up your pores.

Day of spray tan

Do not apply any body wash, lotions, oils, deodorant, perfumes, makeup or shower

all of these can create a barrier on the skin that the tan will not adhere to. If you have any of these products on your skin please use a Micellar or Baby Wipe. Do not use Neutrogena Makeup Wipe as these are very oily and will create more of a barrier.

Wear dark, loose-fitting, long sleeve clothing with open toed sandals

wearing any tight, and/or strappy clothing will cause your spray tan to develop uneven as well as create unwanted lines. Any skin to skin contact will cause areas on the skin to get darker.

hours after spray tan

Do not get wet or sweat until your first rinse

if you accidentally get water on spray tan; ie. spill water, pet licks, etc. take a round makeup brush/beauty blender and use a circular motion to buff and blend out the solution. Or use a small amount of self tanner on your makeup brush to help blend. The bronzer will not appear “perfect” after, but once you rinse the tan will be evened out.

Rinse with lukewarm water - no soap

Use your hand in a circular motion and help remove the bronzer from your skin. You will see most of the bronzer wash away, but know your tan takes 24 hours to fully develop.

Wait until your color is fully developed to moisturize

tans take 24 hours to be fully develop. Any product applied onto the skin prior to the 24 hour mark can hinder your results. It is best to moisturize with lotions that are free of any mineral oil or artificial fragrance as these are common to agent that will strip your tan quickly.

spray Tan maintenance

1-12 hours after

Avoid moisture until your intial rinse

this means no showering, working out, lotions/oils, or liquid foundation on the skin. If you have pets do not let them lick!

Do not touch your body

if you touch yourself while your tan is developing, this could result in orange palms. If you accidentally touch your skin, use an exfoliating mitt to lighten your hands.

Standard tans rinse - 8 to 12 hours

you will see visible color after your first rinse. Do not moisturize for an additional 12 hours. Rinse with water only - pat dry, do not rub. Do not urinate in the shower.

Rapid tans rinse - 2-5 hours

you will not see much visible color after your first rinse. Wait 24 hours to moisturize. Rinse only with water - pat dry, do not rub. Do not urinate in the shower.

Rinse at your designated time

if you do not rinse at your designated time, your tan may develop too light or too dark. If you urinate in the shower during your rinse, the ammonia can cause streaking. If you see streaks after getting out of the shower, hop back in and use your hand to guide the leftover bronzer off.

24+ hours after spray tan

Moisturize - morning + night

the more hydrated your skin is, the longer your tan will last. Your moisturizer should be free of mineral oil + artificial fragrance. If you use any acne/retinol products, your face may become blotchy. Use may use a tan extending lotion that contains DHA after day 3 of your tan.

Avoid swimming, hot tubs, long hot showers/baths, saunas, and excessive sweating

your tan will not last very long if you plan on doing any of these activities. If you choose to swim, quick bursts in the water and pat your skin dry.

No exfoliating until tan is at the end of its life

I advise against using any exfoliating mitt, loofa or wash rags during your showers. It is best to wash using your hands only in areas where needed (pits + privates) to ensure a long lasting tan.