An even, natural-looking spray tan is mostly decided before you ever step into the booth. Good preparation gives the color a smooth, clean surface to develop on, and good habits afterward help it fade evenly.
One or two days before
- Handle hair removal early. Shave or wax ahead of your appointment rather than on the day, so your skin has time to settle.
- Exfoliate gently. A mild scrub or exfoliating mitt removes loose, dry surface cells. Since a sunless tan develops in those outer cells, a smoother surface means a smoother result.
- Pay attention to dry spots. Elbows, knees, ankles and the tops of the feet tend to take on more color. Give them a little extra care.
On the day
- Arrive with clean, bare skin. Heavy moisturizers, deodorant, perfume and makeup can form a barrier that leads to patchy color. If your technician or product instructions say otherwise, follow them.
- Dress for the trip home. Loose, dark clothing and open shoes help you avoid rubbing and marks while the color develops.
- Tie back long hair and remove jewelry before you start.
During the session
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises that DHA, the active ingredient in spray tans, should not be inhaled or applied to the lips, nose or the area around the eyes. It recommends that consumers ask for measures to protect their eyes and mucous membranes and prevent inhalation. Ask what protection is available before the spraying begins, and use it.
Right after
- Respect the development window. Avoid water, heavy sweating and tight clothing for the time you are given.
- Take a lukewarm first rinse. Some bronzer will wash away. That is the guide color, not your tan.
- Pat, do not rub. Dry off gently with a soft towel.
- Moisturize daily from then on to help the color fade evenly.
Checklist
- Hair removal done a day or more ahead
- Gentle exfoliation completed
- Skin clean and free of lotion, deodorant, perfume and makeup
- Loose, dark clothes and open shoes ready
- Eye, lip and nose protection requested
- Development time noted before the first shower
For more on what happens on your skin after you leave, read How Spray Tanning Works and Making a Tan Last.