Insider Tips for a Glowy Spray Tan.

This page answers any and all questions you may have about your spray tan. If you still have questions after reading through this page, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.

Go to FAQs

Pre-Spray Tan Guide

Prior to your heated spray tan, exfoliation is essential. It is recommended to shower 8-12 hours before your spray tan, avoiding immediate showering right before the session. Showering within a few hours or less before your appointment may cause the bronzers to run and not adhere to your skin as effectively.
Be sure to use an exfoliant, such as a mitt or dry brush. Loofahs do not do the best job of removing dead, dry skin and the build-up of products used day after day.
Exfoliation before your spray tan is crucial, and it's even more beneficial to include it as a routine during your shower to help renew your skin. This will bring a natural glow and softness to your skin. However, do NOT exfoliate while you're enjoying the duration of your beautiful spray tan!
Waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facials should be done 24-48 hours BEFORE your airbrush tan. Make sure to exfoliate all lotions and oils before your spray tan appointment, as these services can interfere with your tan. Oils and lotions, including the exfoliating scrubbing beads that nail technicians use, may cause removal, streaking, and undesired results.
It is recommended to shave before your spray tanning appointment. Avoid using a shaver with a moisturizer strip attached to it, as these may cause streaking. Please shave 12-24 hours before your spray tan.

Day-Of Spray Tan Guide

Do a light exfoliation before, leaving your skin free of any products. A fresh layer of skin helps the solution properly adhere to your body so you can obtain an even, flawless tan, creating optimal results. Try to exfoliate 8-12 hours prior to your session.
Please be sure to exfoliate and remove all lotions, perfumes, body sprays, deodorants, and makeup before your tan.
If your deodorant is NOT fully removed, expect to see green armpits. Please scrub not only the armpit itself, but the entire area around as deodorant travels to the surrounding area. I'll see the green color appear right away when spray tanning you.
If you happen to shower within hours/minutes before your spray tanning appointment, make sure your hair is dry enough to not drip or lay wet on your neck where you have a fresh tan. Also, ensure you're not sweaty from a hot shower. Dripping or wet hair that lies on your neck could interfere with the final result.
What to wear is completely your choice. Note: I am a registered nurse, which helps most feel more comfortable. I am focused on giving you the perfect flawless tan! Typically, most clients go completely nude. For those who don't mind tan lines, the disposable underwear I offer is available. You may wear your undergarments or swimsuit, preferably strapless tops. It's entirely up to you, and it will NOT stain your clothes! It must be easily removed to avoid the risk of trying to take off something tight-fitting with your fresh beautiful tan.
Please remove all jewelry before arriving for your spray tan so we don't have to waste time removing necklaces, earrings, watches, etc., and potentially forget or lose these items.

Post-Spray Tan Guide

Wait at least 2-4 hours before rinsing off the bronzers. Yes, you can sit in it longer, as I like to, but please don't sleep in it! It will be a darker result the longer you wait to rinse; again, do not exceed 6 hours nor sleep in it.
Keep your rinse short and sweet. NO SOAP! Just use your hands to remove the cosmetic bronzers with warm water, and remember to always pat dry out of the shower. Use only deodorant after and wait to use lotion until about 12 hours later.
It IS normal to look as if you washed it all off with your first rinse. Full development is at 24 hours, but you will start to see color much sooner.
After your first rinse, be sure to wait closer to the 24-hour mark to take a normal shower with soap.
Daily routine: use soap/washcloth on just your armpits and bottom to freshen up and avoid scrubbing your beautiful tan for longer-lasting results. The less you shower, the longer it lasts too! Dry shampoo and freshening up without a full shower help! Don't take long hot showers or soak in a bath!
Lotion 2x a day! It is key to your daily routine to help make your tan last and have an even fade later on. Dry skin is never good anyway :)
Avoid spraying perfumes directly on your skin to avoid a blotchy tan. Instead, spray on your clothes!
Shaving after your spray tan: Wait until full development. Avoid pushing hard on your skin with your shaver. Just touch up lightly to avoid streaking/stripping.
The less makeup applied, the less to take off, therefore prolonging the tan on your face. If you must, try to match your bronzer/foundation to the rest of your tan body once your face fades. The hands and face are the first to fade to be lighter due to our daily cleansing routines. Be easy on them. Daily moisturizing helps!
Tight-fitting clothes such as bras, Apple Watches, and excessive sweating will wear off your tan in those areas it is rubbing/tight/constant. Dab rather than wipe sweat.
It is helpful to invest in a tan extender or darker makeup for the face to touch-up.

Tips for Getting a Spray Tan Before Your Wedding or Prom Day

I recommend getting a spray tan for your wedding two days before your big day. A fun option is to host a party in your home or my studio for you and your wedding party to ensure everyone is picture perfect bronzed! Check out the Bridal TRIAL option-this will help you decide how you want to look for your special day.
I recommend getting your spray tan for prom after sports/practice is done or nearly done for the week. Wear loose bras or try to avoid them. Also, avoid sweat to prolong your tan!

FAQs

Will I be orange?

No, and if you ever feel you are, it may be a couple of things, such as not removing a product from your skin before your tan or requesting too dark.
What products should I avoid before, during, and after my spray tan?

Dove products, perfumes directly to the skin, chemicals, and low-quality lotions. Invest in a good body wash and lotion for your tan. Hempz products or Melaleuca renew lotion are two of my favorites to use.
How much is the travel fee?

This is based on how many miles to and from my location. Please feel free to contact me to discuss this.
What is your cancellation policy?

Please cancel at least 24-48 hours before your session. I have a family too! Please be considerate by letting me know ahead of time. If you don't, a $25 fee will be charged.
Why do my armpits look green after my session?

Deodorant residue was not scrubbed off thoroughly before your tan. Both sides of the armpit and part of the arm need to be thoroughly scrubbed to be sure it is removed before tanning or you can expect to see this right away. If you failed to do so, plan to scrub harder in that area to remove the bronzers.
How many days before my event should I get a spray tan?

I recommend 1-3 days, but if vacationing, let’s plan to book your tan the day before flying.
How many days before my wedding day should I spray tan?

2-3 days before your wedding day or if the day before, we will plan to do a lighter option and a rinse of cosmetic bronzers as soon as 1-2 hours.
When can I work out after my spray tan?

Wait closer to 24 hours to sweat. Pat drying is recommended for the duration of your spray tan.
What do I wear for the spray tan session?

Plan to put your hair up for the appointment - I will provide the hair net. Most people go completely nude to avoid tan lines, but it is totally up to you and what you feel comfortable wearing. I do offer disposable underwear and pasties if needed, although wearing your own is just fine too. Keep in mind swimsuits may cover less than what you choose to wear.
Can I get a pedicure before my spray tan?

Yes, just be sure to remove/scrub the oils, salts, and any product they use OFF before the spray tan appointment. Don’t plan a pedicure after your spray tan session. You will risk removing the color from your legs/feet.
Can I get a manicure before my spray tan?

Yes! This is not like a pedicure where they soak and scrub.
How long does a spray tan last?

This overall depends on how well you prep and take care of your tan. I typically see 7-10 days with some making them last up to two weeks. Plan to exfoliate and moisturize several days before your spray tan to renew and rejuvenate the skin to promote longer-lasting and better-quality results.
Can I get a tan or build on my spray tan with the sun?

Yes! Which is why sunscreen is still important. You will build on your spray tan.
Can I wash my hair when rinsing off the bronzers?

No soap during that first rinse should be used on your body until closer to 24 hours, therefore plan to lean over the sink or tub to wash your hair if need be.
How long does the appointment take?

New clients or first-time tanners: roughly 20 minutes; regulars 10-15 minutes
Are there levels or how light or dark will my tan be?

Immediately after your spray tan the bronzers are shockingly dark as they should be, this will not be the final result.
Why did my spray tan wash off making it look like I wasted my money?

This is an expected and normal result. Trust the process and know full development/darkest result is at 24-36 hours after your spray tan session.
Can I go swimming in the pools, or the ocean or use hot tubs with my spray tan?

Yes! That’s what vacation is all about. Just know the longer you are in there/over time or if you don’t put lotion or sunscreen on before help protects your tan some, it will eventually fade due to the drying chemicals (chlorine). So, put lotion on and be mindful of how long you're spending in the water to prolong your glow!
What types of things could cause my spray tan not to work for my skin?

Medication use, skin pH rejecting the DHA/color to develop, you didn’t exfoliate buildup of product/dead skin well enough.
Can I bring my children with me to my appointment?

It is best NOT to, but I get it and sometimes they just need to and that’s ok. It is best to plan to wear long sleeves and pants after your session in case you need to lift/care for them. They must stay near you for the entire appointment. If possible, bring help with you so you prevent rubbing.
Do you offer packages?

Host a party of 5 or more at either my location or yours and I will give the host or designated lucky person a free tan! Travel fees are still charged for mobile parties based on miles to and from.
How early should I plan my spray tan party to start?

The earlier we start the earlier you can rinse off the bronzers before bed! This goes for all your guests be considerate!
Can I sleep in my spray tan?

This is risky and not recommended for a few reasons. Those who choose to do so risk overdeveloping their tan making it hard to rinse off the bronzers may develop orange tones, and you may see lines/imprints/or hand marks in unwanted places. Some may sweat during their sleep causing streaking or underdevelopment of color.
How do I get the best results?

Prep is key, but I cannot guarantee spray tanning for EVERYONE. Every person has a different skin type and pH. If you have severally dry skin, use self-tanner and didn’t remove it prior, or fail to read the recommendations/instructions before your tan, there are no guarantees your result will be flawless.
Should I get a wax before or after spray tanning?

24-48 hours BEFORE your spray tan.
Can I get a spray tan with a fresh tattoo?

Ask your tattoo artist when it is best to do so. I do recommend it to be close to fully healed or at least fully scabbed over.
I am diabetic; will the spray tan affect my blood sugar?

It could raise it slightly, natural sugars are part of the spray tan solution.
Can I get a tan while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Absolutely! It is best to ask your provider but spray tanning is safe. I recommend breastfeeding or pumping right before your appointment. You can rinse off the bronzers typically in 2-3 hours making it doable to spray tan for those who are breastfeeding/pumping. Some clients like tape breast pads on to protect the milk ducts.
Will the tan stain my clothes or other things?

It is best to wear dark loose long sleeves/pants immediately after your spray tan. It is NOT supposed to stain and will wash out of things.
Will the spray tan rub off on my wedding dress?

As long as you do a thorough rinse off the first time it should NOT unless you have a very tight and rubbing area of your dress. Baby powder may help with friction in uncomfortable and tight areas.
What forms of payment do you take?

Cash preferred for easy/quick/trustable, otherwise Venmo or check.
I have a sunburn-can I still tan?

I highly recommend NOT to spray tan until finished peeling/exfoliating off the damaged skin. Sun damage can linger underneath the skin for up to 6-8 weeks after initial sunburn. A spray tan can cause rapid exfoliation of skin cells causing them to peel sooner than later and therefore creating spotting/blotchy areas. This can be particularly detrimental to brides or anyone attending a formal event.
Can I spray tan over a UV tan?

Yes, most do this to achieve a darker and more coverage tan. But it is not recommended nor safe to UV tan as this is harmful and aging in UV beds. It takes minutes and only ONE session with the spray tan to achieve what MANY UV bed sessions will achieve for color.
My tan is starting to get splotchy, dry-looking, should I scrub it off?

Blend it with your exfoliating mitt by using water and gently rubbing in a circular motion if the tan isn't too far gone. Taking quicker showers - avoiding long hot ones, drinking water, and remembering to lotion 1-2x daily can prevent this.
When can I workout/sweat?

Wait at least 24 hours after your spray tan for the full development of your spray tan. Please pat dry, instead of wiping sweat off.
How many sessions should I book to achieve a dark color?

JUST ONE! I will create a customized tan that will best fit your desired look and needs. There's no need to book multiple appointments.
Is a trial necessary?

If you're unsure of the idea of a spray tan, I recommend doing a trial spray tan to determine color for your big day. Trial spray tans are $5 off.