A spray tan can look incredible or streaky and patchy — and the difference usually comes down to preparation. Here’s the complete guide to preparing for a spray tan and looking after it afterwards.
Before Your Spray Tan — The Day Before
- Exfoliate thoroughly — use a mitt or exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin, especially on elbows, knees, ankles, and wrists. This is the single most important prep step
- Shave or wax — do this the day before, not immediately before your appointment. Freshly shaved or waxed skin has open pores that absorb tan unevenly
- No moisturiser the day before — barrier products prevent the tan from developing evenly
- Remove nail polish — old nail varnish can absorb the solution and discolour
On the Day of Your Spray Tan
- Shower and wash hair before your appointment — not after
- Don’t apply deodorant, perfume, or body lotion
- Wear loose, dark clothing to the appointment
- Remove all jewellery
- Bring dark, loose underwear or wear a strapless bikini for a line-free result
After Your Spray Tan
- Wait to shower — 8–12 hours for a standard tan, or as advised by your technician for rapid formulas
- Pat dry — never rub with a towel; gentle patting preserves the tan
- Moisturise daily — hydrated skin holds tan longer
- Avoid long baths — hot water and soaking fade the tan faster
- Avoid chlorine swimming — pool chemicals strip DHA from the skin
How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?
A well-prepped, well-maintained spray tan lasts 5–10 days. Daily moisturising and gentle cleansing extend it; swimming, exfoliating, and heavy sweating shorten it.
Find Spray Tan Specialists Near You on Glowbooks
Search for spray tan specialists near you — salon and mobile options available. Browse tanning specialists →
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I shave before a spray tan?
Yes, but do it the day before — not on the day. Fresh shaving opens pores and can cause the tan to develop unevenly.
Why is my spray tan patchy?
Patchiness is almost always caused by insufficient exfoliation before the tan, or applying moisturiser too close to the appointment. Prep properly next time.
Can I spray tan while pregnant?
DHA (the active ingredient) is generally considered safe topically, but it’s always worth checking with your midwife or GP during pregnancy.