If you’re looking to achieve that gorgeous, sun-kissed tan without having to spend hours lying in the sun—or battling with tanning products and their ensuing mess—you should definitely consider getting a spray tan. Spray tans are fast and provide a long-lasting, even tan. But it’s important to properly prepare your skin before getting one.
What is the Best Way to Prepare for a Spray Tan?
Start by cleansing your skin and removing any makeup, sweat, and dirt. You can do this with a gentle cleanser, but it is important to avoid using bar soaps and many of the popular body washes, as they may contain oils that can act as a barrier between your skin and the tanning solution, resulting in a spotty, uneven tan.
It’s also incredibly important to exfoliate your skin prior to getting a spray tan. This will help to remove all dead skin cells, making the application of the spray tan smoother and more even. An effective scrub should be used to exfoliate the entire body, particularly the areas that are prone to excessive tanning—such as elbows, knees, and ankles. Gently scrubbing the body with a loofah also helps to get rid of excess dirt and oils prior to getting a spray tan.
Once you have thoroughly cleansed and exfoliated your skin, it is important to moisturize! Applying a rich, oil-free moisturizer helps the skin to absorb and retain the spray tan more effectively, giving it a longer life. Make sure to avoid any product with SPF or that contains hefty amounts of oil and lotions.
What Should You Avoid Before a Spray Tan?
When prepping for a spray tan, it’s important to avoid any products containing oils or fragrances, lotions, deodorant and other harsh chemicals, makeup, sunscreen, and synthetic fibers. These can all act as barriers, preventing the spray tan solution from staying on skin. It is also important not to shave within 12 hours before getting a spray tan, as this can create raised skin which will absorb more of the tanning formula and may result in a patchy tan.
Can I Shave 2 Hours Before a Spray Tan?
We do not recommend you shave two hours before a spray tan. Shaving leaves your skin vulnerable, and the spray tan solution could irritate the skin, leading to an unpleasant tanning experience. It’s best to avoid shaving in the 12 hours before getting a spray tan, to allow your skin to be as smooth and even as possible.
Do’s and Don’ts Before Getting a Spray Tan
Do:
- Cleanse your skin and make sure it is free of any makeup, sweat, dirt, lotion, etc.
- Exfoliate thoroughly to remove dead skin cells.
- Moisturize with an oil-free moisturizer.
- Wear loose clothing and flip-flops or sandals to the appointment.
- Be prepared to leave the solution on for 8 to 10 hours.
Don’t:
- Shave within 12 hours prior to getting a spray tan.
- Use any product containing oil, fragrances, lotions, deodorant, makeup, or sunscreen.
- Touch or rub your skin prior to rinse.
- Shower or wet yourself for 8 to 10 hours after the spray tan.
Getting a spray tan is a fun and easy way to get the perfect tan without spending hours in the sun. However, it’s crucial to remember to properly prepare your skin for it. Preparing your skin correctly can result in a beautiful, even tan that will last longer, and give you glowing, radiant skin all season long!
References
1. 5 Important Spray Tan Preparation Tips, Copesatan.
2. This Is How To Get The Perfect Spray Tan At Home, Harper’s Bazaar.