Spray Tan Information
Pre Tan
Exfoliate your whole body at least once in the week before your tan, more often on very dry, flakey, or thickened skin. Keep your skin well moisturised in the days before your spray tan for best results.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Unfortunately, spray tans cannot disguise tan lines, so please avoid this as much as possible leading up to a special event.
Exfoliate & shave
Exfoliate (and shave if desired) 24 hours before your spray tan. If you wax this must be done 48 hours before your spray tan.
Use an oil free scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dry skin cells.
This step MUST be done at least 24 hours before, please do not exfoliate on the day of your spray tan.
On the day
Avoid
Moisturisers, Oils, Deodorant & Perfume
Do not apply any moisturisers, lotions, or oils on the day of your spray tan.
This can create a barrier, causing the spray tan to apply unevenly or cause issues with development.
No deodorant or perfumes on the day. This can cause green underarms, and perfume can cause blotchiness, which may lead to uneven results.
Wear Loose, Dark Clothing & Remove Jewellery
Tight clothes may rub off your tan, the bronzer may rub off on your clothes.
If it is raining please wear clothing that will protect the tan and bring an umbrella.
Prepare to go bra-less while your tan develops
Arrive Clean & Dry
Please arrive at your appointment clean, dry, and makeup-free.
If you have applied deodorant, makeup, or perfume please let me know as soon as possible. Although this is not ideal and may effect the tan we do have wipes available for you to use.
Development Period
Things to Avoid
No sweating or exercising during the development period. Sweat can cause streaks and patches.
No tight clothes, bras, or socks immediately after tanning as these can rub your tan off before it sets.
First Rinse
We use rapid tans so usually 1-4 hours for a lighter tan or 8 hours for maximum colour.
Use lukewarm water only, no hot showers.
No soaps, body wash, shampoo, or conditioner during your first rinse. These can interfere with the development process.
You will see bronzer washing away, don’t panic! This is normal. Your actual tan will continue to develop over the next 12–24 hours.
Use your hands to help wash the bronzer completely off your body. If any bronzer residue is left behind it could cause streaks in the final colour.
Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, no rubbing.
Maintenence
Moisturise (very important)
Start moisturising 12–24 hours after your first rinse and then continue to moisturise morning and night day or after water exposure.
Use a gentle, tan-friendly moisturiser.
Top up your tan mid-week with a gradual tanning moisturiser to extend the colour and avoid patchiness as it wears off.
Continue to pat dry after showers.
Avoid
Tight clothes that dig into the skin
Use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash only. Harsh soaps will strip your tan.
No waxing, shaving, or exfoliating for at least 48 hours post-tan.
Tan will fade faster with exposure to water especially long, hot showers, baths, chlorinated or salt water.
No exfoliating or using scrubbing tools until your tan starts to fade naturally.
FAQ
How long will my spray tan last?
Your tan will typically last 5–10 days, depending on your skin type, aftercare, and how well you prepped.
Keeping skin moisturised is essential to help it fade evenly and last longer.
Will my tan keep developing after my first shower?
Yes! The colour continues to develop for up to 24 hours after your rinse.
Your tan may appear lighter immediately after rinsing, but it will deepen over the day.
Im so dark!
Please be aware you will appear much darker and may be slightly patchy and uneven before the first rinse. This is the temporary guide colour and is not indicative of the final colour result which will look more natural and even after the first rinse.
Can I get a spray tan while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Many pregnant and breastfeeding clients safely get spray tans, but always consult with your doctor first.
If breastfeeding, it’s best to keep the chest area tan free or rinse it off before feeding.
What if I accidentally get wet before my first rinse?
Please avoid getting your developing tan wet. Small water spots will result in white spots or areas.
Be careful unloading dishwasher and washing machine. Do not wash hands, instead use a damp flannel to wipe palms of hands. If you do get water on the skin use a clean, slightly damp powder brush to blend the area as soon as possible
Can I shave or wax after my spray tan?
Please wait 48 hours before shaving, and avoid waxing once your tan is applied. Shaving can fade your tan quicker, so always use a gentle, clean basic razor and plenty of moisturiser.
Will it stain my sheets or clothes?
During the development period there is potential for some bronzer transfer onto sheets or clothing. Avoid Sitting on Light Furniture. Use dark towels on light-coloured seats
It usually washes out easily, but stick to dark bedding (or wear full pyjamas) and loose clothes on tanning day just in case.
When should I book my spray tan?
1–2 days before your event is ideal.
This gives the tan time to fully develop, settle, and look its best in photos while still being fresh and even.
Can I tan over an old spray tan?
No, it’s best to remove all remnants of your old tan first to avoid uneven results.
I recommend exfoliating and hydrating the skin for a few days before your new appointment.