Who doesn’t love flawless sun-kissed skin without UV Damage? But how? The popular and accurate solution is the spray tan. Because it’s fast, safe, and customizable. As experts іn this field, here we will share spray tan tips, why іt matters, what tо expect, and common mistakes tо avoid, and dig more into it.
Why Spray Tan Matters
Before we share tips tо get your skin tо glow quickly, explain why spray tanning matters. Spray tan matters for its natural-looking, long-lasting glow, streaks, uneven fading, patchy ankles/knees/elbows, orange tones, and short-lived tans.
Remember: Proper prep = better results every time. Learn more about what is a spray tan.
What are The Best Spray Tan Tips To Follow
The best way tо get a spray tan that lasts and looks good all over іs tо exfoliate a day before, skip lotion оn the day оf the tan, wear loose clothes, shield dry skin with barrier cream, and follow the right aftercare.
Following the right 6 spray tan tips can make a big difference іn getting a smooth glow instead of a splotchy bronze. These prep tips will help you glow smarter:
Exfoliate 24 Hours Before (Not Same Day)
Use an exfoliating mitt or a gentle scrub to remove dead skin so Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the ingredient that creates color, absorbs evenly. Focus on elbows, knees, ankles, heels, and hands. Curious about DHA? Learn here what DHA is in a spray tan. It takes іn evenly.
Note: Try to avoid harsh scrubs on the same day, as your skin needs time to settle.
Shave оr Wax 24–48 Hours Before
Hair removal opens pores, which can cause dark spots if done too close to tanning. Shave or wax one to two days before your appointment to let your skin calm down. If you want wax and live in a place like Arizona, choose our trusted salon, Sugarwaxhaven.
Skip Oils, Lotions & Makeup оn Tan Day
Avoid moisturisers, deodorants, perfumes, and makeup, which act as barriers. They prevent the solution from adhering properly. Arrive with clean, dry, product-free skin.
Choose the Right Clothing
What you wear matters. Tight clothing causes streaks before the tan develops. Here’s a full guide on what’s safe to wear: What to Wear to a Spray Tan
General rule to follow:
- Loose cotton dress or T-shirt
- Dark colors
- No bras or tight waistbands immediately after
We have already published a detailed guide about what to wear to a spray tan. Read to learn more.
Know the Type of Spray Tan You Want
There are rapid tans, traditional tans, clear formulas, bronzed formulas, etc. Ask an expert artist for a recommendation. Or consult us directly. We can help with that.
Protect Problem Areas with Barrier Cream
But ask your tanning specialist before applying too much. Apply lightly on:
- Elbows
- Knees
- Hands
- Ankles
Note: Preparation is the foundation of a beautiful tan. Skipping these steps is the #1 cause of streaks and patchiness.
During Your Spray Tan: What to Do for Even Coverage
This part is simple, just follow the instructions they give and keep a relaxed mind and body. Be careful when they use drops. But a few insider tips can help reduce mistakes, especially for new users. We will share these below:
Follow Artist Instructions Exactly
Follow the instructor’s command on how to stand and move. Professional spray tan artists know how to hold the spray can so that they don’t miss any spots or get any creases.
Keep Hands Relaxed and Fingers Apart
White creases when your fists are closed. For more even coverage, spread your fingers a little.
Avoid Touching Your Skin
Just one touch can mess up the DHA formula and leave fingerprints. So be careful about your touch while getting tan.
Be Careful of Drops
If there are drips from the solution, don’t wipe them away. Instead, get your artist to buff them out.
Find out what is the best spray tan solution is for you, here.
After Your Spray Tan: How to Keep Your Glow for a Longer Time
With a few tips, you can enhance your skin’s glow and make your spray tan last longer. Don’t wet, no shop, no chlorine. Use scent minrel oil-free lotion, and don’t exfoliate for 5-7 days. Actually, how long your tan lasts depends on what you do after your tan.
Avoid Water, Sweating & Tight Clothing
The main rule is not to get wet while the time is being made. In simple words, you should,
- Not going to any fitness centre.
- Not going to rain.
- Do not wash your hands too much.
- Don’t cross your legs, as it can leave marks.
- Avoid hot tubs, chlorine & long baths.
Your First Shower Matters
Make your first rinse quick and lukewarm. No soaps, no scrubbing. Simply rinsing will do until the guide color (bronzer) is clear. Don’t rub and pat dry. New DHA can be rubbed off if you use a towel.
Moisturise Daily After Your First Shower
A soft, even tan is a result of staying hydrated. Use a lotion that has no scent, Mineral oil-free. Retinol should not be used on the body. For five to seven days, do not exfoliate. All of these are maintained unless you want to get rid of the tan.
What’s the Instant Spray Tan Results: The First Hours Explained
After using spray tan, your skin looks more darker, with slight stickiness for the first few hours. You may get some smell because some solutions are scented. Usually, regular spray tans take 8–12 hours (or 2–4 hours with rapid tan formulas) to develop.
Remember: As we mentioned earlier, over time, you should avoid water, sweat, and tight clothing. The final result will be visible within 24 hours, and the spray tan can stick to the clothes or sheet that you wear.
Common Spray Tan Mistakes to Avoid
There are many common mistakes our clients make. Here are mistakes even experienced tanners still make:
- Using Dove or exfoliating body washes (they strip tans)
- Working out before development is complete
- Wearing leggings or sports bras too soon
- Showering too early
- Forgetting to exfoliate before tanning
- Using retinol, AHAs, and BHAs on the body
If you avoid these mistakes, then you can enhance both the look and lifespan of your tan.
Bonus Section: Spray Tan Tips for Special Occasions
This bonus section is for those who are brides going on vacations, to photoshoots, prom, or events.
- Always schedule your tan 1–2 days before the event. This gives it time to settle into its best color.
- If you are new or have a question. Do a trial tan first, especially for weddings or big events.
- Try to avoid spray tans immediately after sunburn. It peels the skin, resulting in a blotchy tan.
- Spray tans do not replace sun protection, so wear SPF.
Self Spray Tan Tips (For At-Home Users)
If you’re using a mousse, mist, or lotion:
- Before tanning, exfoliate, shave, shower & dry
- Use a tanning mitt
- Apply in circular motions
- Start with a light layer (deep loose cloth)
- Use a makeup brush for hands, feet, and face
- Blend wrists and ankles carefully
Use a damp cloth on your palms immediately after a spray tan.
Simplified Spray Tan Tips Checklist
| The day before | Day of | After |
| Exfoliate | No lotion, deodorant, | Avoid water |
| Shave/wax | Or any makeup | Shower at the right time |
| Avoid oily skincare | Wear loose dark clothes | Moisturize daily |
| Drink water | Bring hair ties/clips | Skip chlorine/hot tubs |
If you’re ready to explore more tanning and beauty resources, check out Sugar Wax Haven and our expert guides on waxing and spray tanning.
Fake Spray Tan Tips (for Drugstore or Rapid Tans)
If you’re using affordable or quick-developing formulas:
- Pick a shade close to your skin tone
- Rapid tans need precise timing (set a timer)
- Always blend edges
Note: Avoid applying too much to dry areas
Final Thoughts
A spray tan should enhance your confidence, not stress you out. Follow these spray tan tips and tricks, avoid common mistakes, and prepare your skin the right way, and you’ll enjoy a natural, streak-free glow that lasts.