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    • Sep 5

What to Do Before and After a Spray Tan


Spray Tan

A spray tan is a great way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. However, getting the best results from your spray tan requires proper preparation and aftercare. Essential steps you need to take before and after your spray tan to ensure a smooth, even, and long-lasting glow.


What to Do Before a Spray Tan

  1. Exfoliate Your Skin Exfoliation is key to ensuring your spray tan goes on evenly. The night before your appointment, gently exfoliate your skin with a scrub or loofah to remove any dead skin cells. Pay extra attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles, as these spots can absorb more product and become patchy.

  2. Shave or Wax in Advance Shaving or waxing should be done at least 24 hours before your spray tan to give your skin time to heal and settle. Freshly shaved skin can sometimes cause the tan to develop unevenly. If you wax, ensure there's no leftover residue that could interfere with the tanning solution.

  3. Avoid Applying Lotions, Oils, and Makeup On the day of your spray tan, your skin should be free from lotions, oils, deodorants, and makeup. These products can create a barrier on your skin, preventing the tanning solution from absorbing evenly. If you need to wear deodorant, make sure to remove it before your appointment.

  4. Wear Loose, Dark Clothing After your spray tan, your skin will be a little tacky for a few hours while the solution develops. Wear loose-fitting, dark-colored clothing to avoid rubbing the tan off prematurely or staining your clothes. Avoid tight jeans, bras, or anything that might press against your skin.

  5. Prep Your Skin with a pH-Balancing Spray Some salons offer pH-balancing sprays to help your skin absorb the tanning solution more evenly. These sprays can help neutralize any skin oils or residues and promote a more consistent tan. Ask your tanning specialist if this is available.


What to Do After a Spray Tan

  1. Wait Before Showering The tanning solution needs time to fully develop on your skin. Wait at least 8 to 12 hours before showering to allow the tan to deepen. Avoid sweating, swimming, or getting wet during this time to prevent streaks or patches.

  2. Take a Lukewarm Shower When you do shower, use lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing your skin. The bronzer in the spray tan will rinse off during your first shower, but don't worry—this is normal! Pat your skin dry gently with a towel instead of rubbing to preserve your tan.

  3. Moisturize Regularly Keeping your skin hydrated is essential to maintaining your tan. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer daily to keep your skin from drying out and to prolong the life of your tan. Well-hydrated skin helps the tan fade more evenly and prevents flaking.

  4. Avoid Exfoliating Too Soon Avoid using any exfoliating products or tools for the first 5-7 days after your spray tan. Exfoliation will cause your tan to fade more quickly. Once your tan starts to naturally fade, you can gently exfoliate to remove any uneven patches.

  5. Use a Tan Extender If you want to extend the life of your spray tan, consider using a tan-extending lotion or gradual self-tanner. These products are designed to add a subtle touch of color and keep your tan looking fresh for longer.

  6. Be Mindful of Activities That Cause Skin Friction Excessive friction from tight clothing, heavy workouts, or activities like swimming can cause your tan to wear off faster. To prolong your tan, avoid these activities in the days following your spray tan, and opt for gentle exercise and loose clothing instead.


A flawless spray tan requires both proper preparation and aftercare. By exfoliating, moisturizing, and taking care of your skin, you can achieve a smooth, even tan that lasts longer and looks natural. Follow these tips before and after your spray tan to get the best results and maintain that sun-kissed glow for as long as possible.



Looking for a place to get your tan on?


Tan By The Sea offers both UV tanning and spray tanning services. We also offer a variety of spa services.


We want to help you look and feel your best. Our team of experts will help you choose the right tanning option for you and provide you with the best possible service.


Come in today for a free consultation!


For more information about our services call us at 760-729-1792 or visit our website: https://www.tanbythesea.com/

Monday - Friday: 8am - 8pm

Saturday - Sunday: 10am - 6pm

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