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Woman by the Sea

Your Tan Depends on You

The lasting power and quality of your spray tan depend on how well you prepare your skin beforehand and how you care for it afterward.

What to expect

Before your tan

​The Week Before Your Appointment:

  • Hydrate Your Skin – Moisturize twice daily with a cream-based, organic moisturizer.

  • Exfoliate – Gently exfoliate your skin at least twice using a washcloth and an organic liquid soap.

  • Beauty Appointments – Schedule any waxing, manicures, or pedicures at least 48 hours before your tan to prevent product buildup on the skin.

The Day Before Your Tan:

  • Exfoliate Again – Use a non-oil exfoliant and a washcloth to remove dead skin cells.

  • Shave Properly – Use a brand-new razor and hair conditioner instead of shaving creams containing alcohol or moisturizing strips.

  • Deep Cleanse – Rub your skin briskly with a washcloth or scrub, focusing on dry areas like ankles, knees, and elbows. Towel off thoroughly after your shower.

  • Moisturize – Apply a heavy layer of organic, cream-based moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.

The Day of Your Tan:

  • Do Not Shave or Exfoliate Today

  • Shower at least 2 hours before your appointment using an approved body wash or rinse with water only.

  • Skip All Products – Avoid applying lotions, deodorants, perfumes, or body oils after your shower, as these can create a barrier 

  • What to Wear:

    • Small black underwear or a dark swimsuit for tanning.

    • Flip-flops or open-toed shoes.

    • Loose, dark clothing – avoid jeans, leggings, or tight yoga pants

  • Protect Your Car Seats – Bring a large towel to sit on if wearing shorts or a dress post-tan.

During your tan

During Your Session:

  • Your spray tan session will take approximately 5-7 minutes, followed by a few minutes of drying.

  • You may be tanned with or without undergarments—we offer disposable options—or you can wear a swimsuit or whatever makes you feel most comfortable.

  • To prepare your skin for optimal DHA absorption, we apply a pH-balancing spray to enhance moisture and ensure even development. A custom-blended tanning solution will then be applied to achieve your ideal glow.

  • After application, you will dry for a few minutes before getting dressed.

For the Next 2-8 Hours After Your Tan:

  • DO wear dark, loose-fitting clothing until your first shower.

  • DO NOT apply any products to your skin. Powder, lipstick, and mascara are fine.

  • DO NOT exercise, swim, or use a hot tub. Avoid sweating before your first rinse.

  • Shower Guidelines:

    • Rinse off with warm water only 2-12 hours after your tan, depending on whether you chose the rapid rinse or standard development time.

    • Gently run your hands over your skin until the water runs clear.

    • Pat dry with a towel—do not rub.

    • Avoid applying lotion or cream after your first shower.

    • It is normal to see some color wash away; this is just the cosmetic bronzer, not your actual tan.

If Sleeping in Your Tan:
To prevent bronzer transfer, wear long pajama pants and a t-shirt while sleeping.

Following these steps will help ensure an even, long-lasting tan.

After your tan

  • Avoid scrubbing or rubbing your skin in the shower or when drying off—gently pat dry instead.

  • Moisturize twice daily with an approved cream-based moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and extend the life of your tan.

  • If swimming or using a hot tub, apply a water-resistant sunscreen beforehand and rinse off with fresh water afterward to minimize fading.

  • If you need to shave within the first 48 hours, use a brand-new razor and hair conditioner to avoid stripping your tan.

  • For manicures or pedicures, opt for a polish change only—avoid exfoliation and prolonged soaking.

  • The longevity of your spray tan depends on how well you care for your skin. Proper maintenance will help your tan fade evenly and last longer.

Spray Tan Friendly Products

Here are some products that can help extend the life of your tan. Ingredients we want to avoid include: sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, alcohol and exfoliating ingredients like retinols or AHAs

Outdoor Shower

Body Washes

Myers

Cetaphil

Hempz

Aveeno

Shea Moisture

Cerave

Strokes of Cream

Body Lotions

Myers

Cetaphil

Hempz

Aveeno

Shea Moisture

Cerave

Skincare Model

Sunscreen

Coola

Sun Bum

Alba

Bask

Hempz

SuperGoop

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