Skin Prep
24-48 hours before your spray tan appointment:
- Exfoliate! Buff all those dead skin cells away for an even canvas.
- Hair Removal: Shave at least 48 hours beforehand. This allows your pores to close and reduces the chance of the tanning solution settling into them, which can create dark spots.
- Pre Tan Services: Please avoid manicures, pedicures, facials or waxing at least 48 hours before your spray tan. These services can leave a residue that prevent an even application.
- Hydrate: Moisturize your skin well to prevent any dry patches.
- To get the best results, it's important to come to your appointment with a fresh canvas! Please do not apply any lotion, oils, perfume, makeup, or deodorant before you arrive. These products can create a barrier on your skin and prevent the tan from developing evenly.
- For those super crisp tan lines, opt for a simple, solid-colored bottom instead of lace undies. The solution can seep through the lighter areas of lace, which might leave you with an uneven, "leopard-print" looking tan line.
- And finally, please be on time and have all your prep completed before your appointment! This helps us keep everything on schedule and gives you the best possible experience.
- For the hours immediately following your spray tan, wear dark and loose-fitting clothing and loose flip-flops. Avoid anything tight like jeans, leggings, sports bras, socks, or sneakers until after your first rinse.
- Also, do not get wet at all before that first rinse. This means avoiding rain, washing your hands or face, working out, or anything that might cause you to sweat. Even skin-on-skin contact can transfer the solution, so be mindful of how you're sitting or standing.
- Don't worry if you see dark areas around the creases of your neck, elbows, or knees. These are just the initial bronzers in the solution. They'll completely blend in once you take your first shower. If you notice a green tint under your arms or on your neck, that's just the DHA in the solution reacting with any leftover deodorant or sweat—it will also wash away completely after your rinse.
- If you received a Rapid solution, follow the specific 2-6 hour rinse instructions you were given for your desired color. Don't panic if you feel like you have little color after that first rinse; the tan continues to develop for up to 24 hours. Just remember not to use any body wash or moisturizer until 24 hours after your first rinse.
- Your spray tan will continue to deepen over the next 24 hours, so it's important to avoid using any body wash or moisturizer during this time. Using products too soon can affect the final result of your tan. When you do take your first rinse, don't be alarmed if you see color washing off—that's just the cosmetic bronzer and it's completely normal.
- After the full 24-hour development period, you can start using a body wash. Choose one that does not contain sulfates (SLS/SLES), mineral oil, or petroleum. This is a big one! Using the wrong products can cause your tan to fade unevenly.
- To keep your tan lasting longer, avoid long, hot showers, baths, and hot tubs, as prolonged water submersion and heat can break down the tan. It's also best to skip massages, manicures, and pedicures during your tan's life, as the products used during these services can cause it to fade.
- Lastly, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Use a spray tan-friendly, non-petroleum-based lotion at least twice a day. This will keep your skin hydrated and ensure your tan fades evenly and flawlessly.
- Keep in mind that spray tans do not provide sun protection, so it's essential to wear sunscreen when you're outdoors.
- With a little care and attention, your “SHIMMER” can last anywhere from 5 to 10 days!