A flawless spray tan starts long before you step into the booth. Knowing how to prepare for a spray tan is the difference between a smooth, even glow and dark spots or patchy fading. Here is the exact prep we give every Sunless Bar client.
24 Hours Before: Shave, Wax, and Exfoliate
Shave, wax, and exfoliate at least 24 hours before your appointment. This gives your pores time to close and the amino acids in your skin time to rebalance, both of which help the tan develop evenly. Our Exfoliation Mitt buffs away dry skin and old tan for a smooth canvas.
If you still have an old tan on your skin, remove it first. Tanning over leftover color leads to uneven, patchy results. Our tan remover works in 60 seconds.
The Days Before: Moisturize
Hydrated skin takes color more evenly, so moisturize in the days leading up to your tan. Just not the day of. We love our Lemon Drop Shimmer Lotion.
The Day Of: Keep Your Skin Bare
- Shower at least 24 hours before your appointment
- No lotion, oil, gel, or shaving cream within 24 hours
- No makeup, moisturizer, sunscreen, perfume, or deodorant
Product residue acts like a barrier and can block your color from developing properly.
What to Wear to a Spray Tan
After your tan, your skin needs room to breathe while the color develops. Wear:
- Loose, dark clothing
- Slides, sandals, or slippers
Skip bras, leggings, jeans, tight socks, and closed-toe shoes, which can rub and leave lines. If it is raining, bring an umbrella and keep your skin covered on the way out to avoid water spots.
What to Wear During Your Spray Tan
Whatever feels comfortable. You can be tanned in disposable underwear (we provide it), your own underwear, a bathing suit, or nothing at all. Clients under 18 must wear underwear and have a parent or legal guardian present for the entire appointment, which applies to prom spray tans too.
What NOT To Wear
Anything that presses against your skin can rub or leave lines while your color develops. Avoid:
- Tight or fitted clothing like leggings, skinny jeans, and bodysuits
- Bras, especially underwire or strapless styles
- Socks and closed-toe shoes
- Elastic waistbands and hair ties on your wrist
- Jewelry and watches
When to Book
For an event, book 2 days before so your color is fully developed. That goes for a bridal or wedding spray tan, a spray tan before a photoshoot, or prom. For a vacation, book the day before you leave.
Ready to Glow?
Now that you know how to prep, book your Nashville spray tan, in studio in Brentwood or as a mobile spray tan that comes to you. Then read how to make your spray tan last longer.