Whether it's your first spray tan or your hundredth, following our prep guide will guarantee a smooth application and a long-lasting glow for both you and our team of artists.
Take care of your spray tan, and it will take care of you
Why spray tan care
Before Treatment Prep
Everything you need to know to prepare for your airbrush tan for the best results and a flawless experience.
- Complete all self-care and beauty treatments (manicures, pedicures, facials, hair appointments, waxing, laser treatments, etc.) at least 24 hours prior to your tanning session.
- Avoid getting a spray tan if your skin is peeling or if you have open wounds, microneedling, lasers or recent tattoos that are not fully healed.
- Exfoliate 24 hours before your appointment using a non-oil-based exfoliator, such as a basic loofah or washcloth.
- Exfoliating 2-3 times leading up to your appointment can help remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface.
- Avoid heavy exfoliating oils or products that might leave a residue on your skin.
- Shave at least 12 hours before your spray tan to prevent streaks caused by shaving products' residue.
- Use a clean, sharp razor and avoid shaving creams with oils.
- Lotions
- Oils
- Perfumes
- Deodorants
- Makeup
- Sunscreen
- Wear dark-colored, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.
- Tight clothing or undergarments may rub off or smear the tanning solution.
- Sandals or flip-flops are recommended to avoid marks on your feet.
- Discuss any questions, concerns, or specific needs with your artist before your appointment begins.
- Let your artist know if you have sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis, or any other skin conditions. (A patch test can be performed if necessary.)
During Your Spray Tan
Your comfort is our priority. Here's what to expect during your session.
- Wear what makes you most comfortable during the session:
- Disposable undergarments are available upon request.
- Bra and underwear
- Swimsuit
- Nude (for no tan lines)
- We Provide
- Please let us know if you'd like to use any of these items.
- Hair caps
- Eye protection
- Nose plugs
- Our technicians are trained in color matching and will help you choose the best solution and shade for your skin tone and desired outcome.
- We ensure a natural-looking tan without any orange hues.
After Your Spray Tan
Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining your tan and the secret to a long-lasting glow
- Avoid contact with water or liquids while your tan is developing (This includes rain, sweating, washing hands excessively, and exposure to pets.)
- Wear loose-fitting clothes to prevent disturbing the tanning solution.
- Avoid activities that may cause sweating, such as exercise.
- Standard Airbrush Tan: Rinse after 8 hours.
- Rapid Tan: Rinse within 2-4 hours, depending on desired depth of color.
Rinse Guidelines:
- Use lukewarm water onlyāabsolutely no soap, shower gels, or shampoos during this initial rinse.
- Gently rinse until the water runs clear.
- Use your hands to lightly remove excess bronzer, focusing on areas like legs and behind arms.
- Do not scrub or use exfoliating products.
- Pat your skin dry with a towel; do not rub.
- Wait at least 12 hours after your initial rinse before applying lotion.
- Use a water-based, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated (CeraVe is a recommended option).
- Moisturize twice daily to prolong your tan.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Hot showers, baths, steam rooms, and saunas
- Swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater
- Excessive sweating from intense exercise
Use gentle cleansing practices:
- Use mild, sulfate-free body washes.
- Avoid exfoliating ingredients like:
- Lactic Acid
- Glycolic Acid (AHA)
- Retinol
- Benzoyl Peroxide
- Pat skin dry after bathing; avoid rubbing vigorously with a towel.
- Avoid products containing:
- Petroleum
- High levels of alcohol
Factors Affecting Tan Development
Several other factors can influence how your skin develops color after a spray tan:
- Hormone levels can affect skin chemistry and may influence tan development.
- Pregnancy
- Menstrual cycles
- Hormonal medications (e.g., birth control)
- These changes might cause the tan to develop lighter or darker than expected.
- Certain medications can affect your skin's response to the tanning solution:
- Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders can also impact results.
- Always inform your technician about any medications or conditions.
- Antibiotics
- Acne medications
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Dry skin may absorb more solution, leading to a darker tan.
- Oily skin may develop color differently or fade faster.
- Sensitive skin may require a patch test.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Your skin type and natural exfoliation rate
- How well you follow aftercare instructions
- The depth of color chose
No, our solutions are formulated for a natural-looking tan. Our technicians customize the color to suit your skin tone.
- The spray tan does not provide UV protection.
- Always use sunscreen with SPF to protect your skin.
We carefully apply the solution with a light bronzer so you will feel dry leaving Shade. Usually the bronzer does not transfer, although you might see some bronzer rub off on clothes and sheets so we always recommend wearing loose dark clothing to avoid transfer.
DHA, the active ingredient, is FDA-approved and only affects the outer layer of skin. However, consult with your physician before proceeding. We can provide nose filters and ensure proper ventilation for your comfort.
Yes, but we recommend a patch test before your appointment. Inform your technician about any conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or allergies. A waiver may need to be signed.
Schedule your tan 2-3 days before your event for optimal results.
To maintain a consistent tan, schedule sessions every 7-14 days.
Regular exfoliation and moisturizing can help maintain even fading.
- Mineral oil
- Petroleum
- Exfoliating ingredients (e.g., AHA/BHA)
- Retinol
- Bar soaps
Wear loose, dark clothing and use darker bedding if concerned.
Shaving should be done 12 hours prior to the appointment if needed.
Do not tan over open wounds or fresh tattoos.
- Wait 24 hours for full development.
- If still not satisfied, consult your technician about a possible touch-up.
- Gently rinse again or soak in a bath to lighten the tan.
- Avoid excessive scrubbing.
- Rinse again, ensuring all bronzer is washed off
- If streaks persist, gently rub the area with a soft cloth.
- Avoid using rubbing alcohol, as it may remove the tan in that area.
- 24 hours prior to your tan, ideally 2-3 times before your appointment
- When your tan begins to fade, gently exfoliate to remove residual color and prepare your skin for your next session.
- Products containing mineral oil, petroleum or parabens
- Aerosol sunscreens
- Exfoliating ingredients: Salicylic acid (BHA), lactic acid, glycolic acid (AHA)
- Anti-acne products that exfoliate or dry the skin, such as Benzoyl Peroxide
- Retinol
- Fashion tape/ bandages
- Bar soaps
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