A beautiful spray tan starts before you step into the studio. Follow these instructions to help your tan develop evenly, last longer and fade more naturally.

REMINDERS:

Your spray tan should be your final beauty appointment.
Schedule massages, waxing, facials, manicures/pedicures and other treatments before your tan whenever possible.

SUNBURNED OR PEELING?

Spray tans cannot be performed over actively sunburned, peeling or otherwise compromised skin. Please wait until your skin is completely healed (typically around 3–4 weeks after a sunburn, depending on severity) before your appointment.

WEATHER:

Please bring closed toe shoes and an umbrella if raining.

SKINCARE:

If you use Retin-A, Tretinoin, Toners, Accutane, etc - those are highly abrasive to your tan and will cause fading quickly. If those products are necessary in your skincare routine, we recommend using a tanning water for your face to keep that area from fading faster.

Tan Prep

24-48 Hours Before

Shave & exfoliate. We recommend using an exfoliating mitt with an oil-free product. Do not use any bar soaps (Dove, Dial, Olay, etc.) or oily scrubs (Tree Hut). It's best to use a gel-based body wash or recommended brands (Cetaphil, Hempz, Method). We also carry a spray tan safe soap in salon for purchase. Completely remove any old spray tan or self-tanner before your appointment. We recommend using your exfoliating mitt and Caramel & Rose 60 second tan remover (also available for purchase if needed). Complete waxing, nail appointments, massages, facials and other beauty treatments before your spray tan whenever possible.

3-4 Days Before

Avoid using any oil on your body 72hrs before your tan. Hydrate daily with moisturizer/lotion leading up to your tan, but do not apply the day of your tan. Recommended moisturizer/lotion (Cetaphil & Cerave). Discontinue retinol, AHAs, BHAs and other exfoliating skincare products on areas that will be sprayed approximately 3-4 days before your appointment. These products can affect how the tan develops and may cause it to fade unevenly or more quickly.

Day Of Tan

Arrive with clean, dry skin free of any product (no lotion, perfume, SPF, deodorant, makeup or oil). Please also ensure your hair is dry for your appointment to avoid dripping on your tan. Arrive in, or bring a change of loose, dark clothing and loose-fitting shoes or slides. Avoid leggings, jeans, tight bras and other clothing that may rub against your developing tan.

Post Tan Care

Before You Rinse:

Avoid any activity involving water or sweating. Do not apply any makeup, moisturizer, deodorant, SPF or perfume until after your first shower. Avoid skin-to-skin contact while your tan is still developing to avoid creasing or stained hands. If you are wearing your tan overnight to process, wear dark loose clothing to bed. (Long pants and long sleeves). Please do not rinse until your designated time! This is to ensure your tan has enough time to develop to meet your specific color goals.

First Rinse:

Keep your shower quick - 5 min max and water temp warm (not too hot causing you to sweat). With your hands, push off all the cosmetic bronzer from your skin until the water runs clear. Don't panic if you look significantly lighter afterward—the cosmetic bronzer has washed away while your actual sunless tan continues to develop. If you are streaky out of the shower, jump back in and continue rinsing it off. Do not use soap, shampoo/conditioner or body wash during your first rinse. If needed, only use soap on your underarms and privates. Avoid peeing in the shower (I know!) before you rinse as it can cause streaking and strip your tan. Gently pat your skin dry with a towel rather than rubbing.

Maintenance Tips

Keep Your Glow Longer

Moisturize Daily

Keeping your skin hydrated is one of the best ways to extend the life of your tan. Moisturize regularly with a tan-friendly lotion.

Keep Showers Gentle

Choose shorter, lukewarm showers rather than long, very hot ones.

Use sulfate-free body wash and avoid harsh bar soaps, heavy fragrances and exfoliating scrubs that can strip your color.

Skip the Scrub

Avoid exfoliating mitts, loofahs, body scrubs and aggressive rubbing until you're ready to remove your tan.

Be Mindful of Water

Pools, hot tubs, long baths and frequent swimming can cause your tan to fade more quickly.

Know That Some Areas Fade Faster

Your face, hands and feet may naturally fade faster than the rest of your body due to washing, skincare and everyday activity.

When You're Ready for a Fresh Tan

Once your tan has reached the end of its life, thoroughly exfoliate and remove the remaining color before your next appointment so we can start with a clean, even canvas.

The Glow Nook