Spray tanning is a wonderful alternative to baking in the sun for hours on end, creating UGLY tan lines, and wrinkles. But, to get the most out of your spray tan experience, you must consider skin care maintenance before and after a spray tan to create a gorgeous, long-lasting skin color. Follow these steps and your spray tan experience will turn out beautifully!
Before Your Spray Tan
Spray Tan Tip #1 Exfoliate
In preparation for your spray tan; exfoliate your entire body 2 to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment using a loofah or body scrub product. Avoid salt scrubs as they can be drying to the skin and pay special attention to dry areas such as elbows and ankles. Be sure not to injure your skin by overdoing it.
Spray Tan Tip #2 – Remove Unwanted Hair
Remember to shave (8-12 hours before) or wax (24 hours before) to remove unwanted body hair from legs, underarms, etc. Always use a sharp, clean razor with a lubricating product such as hair conditioner or shaving gel. This will help in the exfoliation process as well!
Spray Tan Tip #3 – Clearing Skin
Avoid make-up, perfume, lotion and deodorant before getting a spray tan. All of these items are considered barriers to the skin that may prevent the tanning solution from developing properly. Avoid sunless tanning lotions and sprays for at least 7 days prior to your spray tanning appointment. Remove all jewelry.
Spray Tan Tip #4 – Wear Proper Clothing
Consider wearing dark, loose fitting clothing to your spray tan session. The cosmetic bronzer in tanning solution may rub off onto your clothing. Although it should wash out of most fabrics; it may stain nylon, lycra, and silk. Tighter fitting clothing like socks or leggings could cause the tan to develop unevenly.
After Your Spray Tan
Spray Tan Tip #5 – Avoid Getting Wet
Refraining from shower and exercise for 8-12 hours after your spray tan will be crucial to allow the tan to fully develop.
Spray Tan Tip #6 – Shower Carefully
During your first shower, 8-12 hours after getting your spray tan, you will notice quite a bit of brown colored water going down the drain. Don’t be alarmed, this is normal! It is only the cosmetic bronzer washing off your skin; your real tan is underneath. Dry yourself by gently patting a towel over your skin, avoiding extensive rubbing which may cause streaking or color removal in certain areas.
Spray Tan Tip #7 – Take Care of Your Skin
A spray tan fades as the top layer of your skin naturally exfoliates (replacing dead skin cells with new ones). To help prevent premature exfoliation, be sure to apply a sunless tan compatible moisturizer twice a day. Avoid excessive use of self tanning lotions as these can cause undesirable tones, streaks, and dryness.
Spray Tan No No’s
