How Do You Prepare for a Spray Tan?

Your Ultimate Guide to Glowing, Even Skin

If you want a flawless spray tan that lasts, it all starts with proper preparation. Skipping or rushing the prep process can lead to an uneven tan, streaky patches, or even colour that fades too fast. But with the right steps and the right timing you’ll be well on your way to that smooth, natural looking tan.

Whether it’s your first spray tan appointment or you're a self-tan regular, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know from pre-tan exfoliation to what to wear and how long your glow will last.

Step 1: Exfoliate and Shave 24–48 Hours Before Your Appointment

A good spray tan starts with a smooth canvas. That means exfoliating your whole body to remove dead skin cells, especially from dry or rough areas like knees, elbows, and ankles. This helps the tanning solution apply evenly and prevents it from clinging to dry patches.

Use a gentle exfoliator, exfoliating mitt, or body scrub that doesn’t contain mineral oil—oily products can create a barrier that interferes with the tan. Shave or wax the day before, not the day of your appointment, to avoid irritation. This is particularly important if you have pale skin, as any redness or sensitivity can affect how your tan develops.

Step 2: Don’t Shower on Tan Day

Yes, you read that right. One of the most overlooked tan tips is avoiding a shower right before your spray tan session. Why? Because water, soaps, and skincare products can create a barrier on your skin, preventing the spray solution from developing properly.

Showering a few hours before your spray tan can also hydrate the skin in a way that repels the tanning product, especially if you're using hot water or body wash that leaves residue. Aim to shower the night before, and arrive with clean skin that’s dry but not freshly washed.

Step 3: Skip the Lotions, Perfume, and Deodorant

Your skin should be completely free of products when you walk into the tanning salon. That includes moisturiser, makeup, deodorant, and perfume. All of these can act as a barrier cream, which blocks the tanning solution from absorbing evenly into your skin type.

Although it’s important to keep your skin hydrated in the days before, stop applying lotion the day of your tan. Even a thin layer can stop the colour from sticking properly, especially on your arms, chest, and back.

Step 4: What Should You Wear to a Spray Tan Appointment?

Comfort is key and so is avoiding anything that will mess up your freshly applied tan. Choose loose fitting, dark clothing that won’t rub or cling to your skin. Think oversized T-shirts, joggers, or flowy dresses.

Skip the bra if you can, or opt for a strapless version. As for shoes, flip flops are your best friend. They stop your ankles and feet from rubbing and let your tan dry evenly. If you’ve got long hair, tie it up or ask your technician for one of those handy hair caps to protect your strands from the spray.

Step 5: How Long Will a Spray Tan Last if I Prep Properly?

With the right prep, your tan can last anywhere from 5 to 10 days, depending on your skin tone, skin type, and aftercare routine. A good prep routine helps the tan fade gradually and evenly, without patches or blotchiness.

To extend the life of your tan:

• Moisturise daily after your first water rinse, choose something that’s specifically formulated for tanned skin.

• Avoid long hot showers, hot tubs, and anything that causes excessive sweating for the first 24–48 hours.

• Try not to wear tight clothes that could cause friction and create tan lines or rub off your cosmetic bronzer.

Avoid exfoliating until you're ready for the colour to fade. This keeps your subtle glow intact for as long as possible and gives you more time to enjoy that golden glow.

Final Tan Tips from the Experts

Every tanning expert will tell you the same thing: spray tan preparation is everything. No amount of spray can make up for dry skin, blocked pores, or product-covered arms. If you want a perfect tan that complements your skin tone, plan ahead and follow every step.

And don’t forget - if you want to top up your glow between appointments, a good self tanner can help maintain your colour without the need for a full airbrush tan session.

Ready to glow like a pro? With these tips in mind, your next spray tan won’t just look amazing, it’ll last longer and fade like a dream. Book Your Spray Tan.