The oils used during these services will create a barrier between your skin and the spray tan solution causing an uneven application. Shaving or waxing can leave your skin sensitive and your pores open. Applying a spray tan too soon afterward can cause irritation or a stinging sensation. When you tan right after shaving, the solution can settle into open pores and create dark spots or a “speckled” look—especially on legs.
Using an exfoliating mitt before your spray tan is one of the most important steps to achieving a flawless, streak-free glow. Unlike some scrubs that may leave behind oils or residue, a mitt cleans the surface without any leftover barrier that could affect how your tan develops.
To protect the look and longevity of your spray tan, it’s important to complete all other beauty services—like manicures, pedicures, and facials—before your tanning appointment. Here’s why:
Nail services often involve soaking, scrubbing, and exfoliating, which can strip or fade your fresh tan—especially on your hands and feet where the color tends to fade fastest.
Lotions, oils, and treatments used during facials, waxing, or nail appointments can create a barrier on your skin, causing your spray tan to develop unevenly.
Getting a spray tan on sunburned or sun-exposed skin can lead to uneven, patchy results—and even damage your skin further.
Sunburned skin peels and flakes, which causes the tanning solution to cling unevenly and results in blotchy, streaky areas—especially as the skin begins to heal and shed.
Hydrated skin is happy skin—and it’s the secret to a smooth, even, and long-lasting spray tan.
When your skin is well-hydrated, it creates a smoother surface for the tanning solution to absorb evenly—reducing the risk of streaks, dry patches, or uneven fading.
If you need to shower, do it at least 4 hours before your appointment so your skin has time to return to its normal pH. Skip body wash with heavy oils and avoid exfoliating.
Make sure your skin is free of lotions, perfumes, deodorant, makeup, and oils, as these can act as a barrier and affect how your tan develops.
Opt for loose, dark clothes and sandals to avoid rubbing or smudging the fresh tan. Tight clothing can cause lines or streaks
Take off necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings so there are no marks or missed spots during the application.
• Classic tan: Rinse after 8–12 hours.
• Rapid tan: Rinse in 1–4 hours depending on your technician’s recommendation.
• Use lukewarm water only—no soaps during the first rinse, just a quick rinse until the water runs clear.
• Start moisturizing after your first rinse and continue twice daily with a fragrance-free, oil-free lotion.
• Keeping your skin hydrated helps your tan fade evenly and last longer.
• Avoid long, hot showers and exfoliating body washes.
• Use mild, sulfate-free, and oil-free cleansers to avoid stripping your tan.
• No scrubbing, shaving, or waxing after your spray tan until you are ready for it to be removed.
• Avoid chlorine pools, hot tubs, and excessive sweating—these can cause your tan to fade faster or become patchy.
• Consider using a tan-extending lotion or tanning water to keep your glow fresh, especially on areas that fade faster like hands, face, and feet.
We sell Glow Theory Tanning Water for $15.00!
A spray tan gives your skin a beautiful bronzed glow—but it does not protect you from the sun.
Avoid Aerosol Spray Sunscreens
• They can cause streaking or splotching on your spray tan due to uneven application.
• Many contain alcohol, which can dry out your skin and lead to faster fading or patchiness.
• Overspray may also break down the tan in certain areas, especially on the chest, arms, and face.
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