Spray Tan
Prep + Aftercare
The perfect tan isn’t luck — it’s prep. Here’s your ultimate spray tan prep and aftercare routine for a seamless, streak-free finish.
Tan Tips | Prep
Manicure + Pedicure
Mani/Pedi must be done 24 hours before your spray tan.
Any product left behind from these services will create a barrier that prevents the tan from developing evenly.
Hair removal + skincare treatments
Complete all beauty services 24 hours before your appointment.
Like waxing, threading, facials, massages + discontinue use of all Retinols and Acids 3 days prior to your tan. Remember to exfoliate that neck!
Exfoliate
Skip scrubs, soaps + body washes. Dry exfoliate with a dry brush or an exfoliating mitt 12 – 24 hours before your appointment.
No loofahs or wash cloths as these are NOT rough enough to remove dead skin.
Avoid showering immediately before your appointment. To give your pores time to close to avoid discoloration, streaks or an uneven tan.
Skipping these steps will lead to an uneven, patchy finish.
Hydration + Lotions
Prep your skin with a spray tan–approved moisturizer the night before your appointment. If you’re booked later in the day, apply a light layer again that morning to keep skin balanced and ready.
Products to Avoid
Dove, Dial, Oil of Olay, Jergens, SoftSoap. Nivea, Irish Spring or any moisturizing
liquid/bar soap.
Anti-aging/Acne treatments, Pimple Patches, Bandaids/Adhesive tape, Mineral Oil.
Tan Tips | After-Care
Rinse
Adhere to the rinse time recommended by your artist (standard rinse window is 3–5 hours). Avoid soap and shampoo for the first 24 hours. Rinse with warm water only.
Use your hands in gentle circular motions with a soft microfiber cloth to remove the bronzer.
A proper first rinse is essential. Streaking immediately after showering is almost always the result of an incomplete or uneven first rinse.
Take your time and rinse evenly for the best results.
Moisturizing
Apply moisturizer immediately after your first rinse. We love CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.
Maintenance
Keep your skin hydrated + moisturized. Take luke warm showers, and avoid scrubbing your skin.
Avoid
Dove Products + others with mineral oil, parabens, sulfates or petroleum by-products.
Skincare with Retinols, Glycolic/Lactic Acid, AHA’s/BHA’s.
Fitted or activewear-style clothing in the first 24 hours.
After your first rinse, avoid moisture and excessive sweating for 24 hours to allow the tan to fully set.
Avoid excessive heat (steam rooms, hot tubs, long hot showers) and chlorinated water. Skip massages, acid-based products, and adhesives like fashion tape or bandages to preserve your tan.
Prep & Aftercare Products
We understand that navigating all the Prep & Aftercare instructions can feel a bit overwhelming, so we’ve made it simple for you. We’ve curated a collection of our favorite spray-tan-safe products, all conveniently available on Amazon or at your local drugstore