SUNLESS TANNING TIPS

How to prep before your spray tan appointment 

Skin prep is the key to long-lasting results from your spray tan. Here are our top care tips to keep in mind as your session approaches: 
 

1. Exfoliate your skin

Gently exfoliating the treatment area 24 hours before your appointment will remove dry, dead skin cells that can interfere with the spray tanning process. Use an exfoliating mitt or oil-free scrub to ensure even tanning.

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2. Shave or get waxed

It’s best to remove unwanted facial and body hair at least 24 hours prior to your spray tan. Areas shaved immediately before a session may absorb too much tanning solution, leading to patchy, uneven results. Wax residue or film can inhibit absorption and generate the same unwanted effect. If you must shave your legs on the day of your spray tan, be sure to use a plain white oil-free bar soap to shave with, as shaving cream contains lanolin (an oil based product) that can act as a barrier between the spray tan solution and the skin.  

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3. Moisturize your skin

Ensure adequate moisture levels to help your skin retain the tanning solution. Think of your skin as a sponge: a dry, hard sponge isn’t absorbent at all-- a sponge is only absorbent only when it is moist. The same principle applies to your skin. Dry areas like the elbows, knees, ankles, and hands may discolor if not adequately moisturized. Be sure to use WATER BASED MOISTURIZERS ONLY before spraying.

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4. Keep your skin clean

Natural oils, makeup, and skincare products can interfere with your spray tan, so a shower is an essential part of skin prep. On the morning of your appointment, a quick rinse is recommended to help you achieve the best results. Be sure you do not use any oil based soaps or scrubs – usually a simple white bar soap works well. We do not recommend the use of DOVE soap products as it tends to leave a residue barrier on the skin.

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5. Avoid oil-based products

Oil-based products are strictly prohibited on the day before your spray tan. Unfortunately, hidden oils tend to lurk in many products under inconspicuous names, so it’s best to skip any products you aren’t completely sure about. 

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Arriving for your spray tan appointment

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1. Arrive with fresh, clean skin

On the morning of your session, gently wash your skin with oil-free soaps to eliminate sweat, lotion, and deodorant residue. Even perfume can create a barrier against the tanning solution, so avoid any topical products you’re unsure of. 

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2. Wear loose clothing

Freshly sprayed tans can rub off on your clothing, so choosing the right attire is key. Dark, loose-fitting clothes can minimize friction and conceal any transfer that takes place. This is the day to opt for a loose bralette, roomy sweatpants, and flip-flops. If you prefer tan lines, choose a black swimsuit or undies you don’t mind exposing to a little pigment. 

 

Spray tan aftercare tips for long-lasting results

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Sunless tanner that lasts requires both skin prep and aftercare. Here are a few tips to maintain your results between sessions: 

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Use a gentle cleanser

Harsh topical products, exfoliating scrubs, and oil-based products will strip the added pigment from your skin and drastically impact your results. Your application specialist can help you choose the perfect products to maintain a long-lasting tan. Ask about our shower products designed for gentle cleansing without stripping the new glow from your skin.

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Keep skin moisturized

You may have noticed that moisturized skin keeps coming up when we talk about spray tan prep and maintenance, and that’s because hydration is an essential element of any long-lasting glow. In addition to drinking lots of water between sessions, a lotion containing DHA support can help you keep your tan even longer. 

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Avoid chlorine

We get it. You just received the perfect tan and you’re ready to show it off! But you may need to lounge poolside instead of diving in. Chlorine in swimming pools and hot tubs will cause uneven fading, so you’re better off staying on dry ground. 

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