A beautiful spray tan begins before you ever step into the studio. Proper preparation helps your color develop evenly, last longer and fade more naturally.
As the original spray tan artist serving the Palm Beach area since 2009, I have seen how a few simple preparation steps can make a significant difference in the final result. Whether this is your first spray tan or part of your regular glow routine, here is exactly how to prepare for your Perfect Glow Sunless™ appointment in West Palm Beach.
When Should You Schedule Your Spray Tan?
For weddings, vacations, photoshoots and special events, I generally recommend scheduling your spray tan approximately two days beforehand. This gives the color time to fully develop and allows you to complete your initial rinse and usually an additional shower before your event.
If you are new to spray tanning or preparing for your wedding, scheduling a trial tan in advance is always a good idea. It allows us to see how your skin develops and make any adjustments to your custom color before the occasion.
Remove Any Old Spray Tan First
Your new spray tan should be applied to a clean, even base. Applying fresh solution over remnants of an old tan can cause the color to develop or fade unevenly. (I also have a blog on this subject as well).
Remove as much previous spray tan or self-tanner as possible before your appointment, paying particular attention to the:
- Ankles and feet
- Knees
- Elbows
- Wrists and hands
- Neck and underarms
Whenever possible, complete your main tan removal and exfoliation 24 to 48 hours before your appointment so your skin has time to settle.
If you need help removing old color, Perfect Glow Sunless™ Tan Remover is available to pick up at my West Palm Beach studio or order online here https://shop.
Exfoliate 24 to 48 Hours Before Your Appointment
Exfoliation removes dry, dead skin cells and creates a smoother surface for your spray tan. Concentrate on areas where the skin tends to be drier or where tanning solution can collect, including the elbows, knees, ankles and feet.
Use a gentle exfoliating mitt or washcloth with an oil-free exfoliating product. Avoid scrubbing so aggressively that your skin becomes red, sensitive or irritated.
Try not to use exfoliating products that leave a heavy oil or moisturizing film behind. That residue can create a barrier between your skin and the tanning solution.
Complete Shaving and Waxing in Advance
Shave at least 12 to 24 hours before your spray tan whenever possible. Shaving immediately before an appointment can leave the skin sensitive and may cause solution to settle into freshly opened pores.
Waxing should generally be completed at least 24 to 48 hours beforehand. Wax residue can interfere with development, and freshly waxed skin may be too sensitive for a comfortable, even application.
If you forget and need to shave on the day of your appointment, avoid using a razor with a heavy moisturizing strip or oily shaving product, and make sure all residue is thoroughly rinsed away.
Schedule Other Beauty Services Before Your Tan
Complete manicures, pedicures, massages, facials and other body treatments before your spray tan—not afterward.
Soaking, exfoliating, oils, lotions and massage products can remove or disrupt freshly applied color. Hair appointments involving shampooing or treatments should also be completed beforehand whenever possible so water and products do not run over a developing tan.
Arrive With Clean Skin
On the day of your appointment do not shower right before. If you do have to shower, do it at least four or five hours before the Spray Tan . Showering right before will hydrate your skin, so it will not absorb as much of the Spray Tan solution, which could result in a lighter result than what you’re looking for.
Your skin should be free of:
- Lotion or body butter
- Body oil
- Deodorant
- Perfume
- Makeup on areas being sprayed
- Sunscreen
- Heavy skincare products
These products can create a barrier and prevent the tanning solution from developing evenly. Deodorant may also react with the cosmetic bronzer and temporarily cause discoloration around the underarms.
If you are coming directly from work or another activity I do have complementary pH prep wipes to wipe down your skin for you.
Avoid Actives on Areas Being Sprayed
Strong exfoliating skincare ingredients can affect how a spray tan develops and fades. Avoid applying retinoids, exfoliating acids or other aggressive resurfacing products to areas being sprayed immediately before your appointment.
If you regularly use prescription or active skincare products, let me know so we can discuss what to expect—particularly if you are having your face sprayed.
What Should You Wear After a Spray Tan?
Bring or wear dark, loose-fitting clothing that will not rub against your skin while the tan develops.
Good options include:
- A loose dark T-shirt or long-sleeved top
- Loose dark sweatpants or pajama-style pants
- An oversized dark dress
- Loose flip-flops or slides
Avoid tight leggings, jeans, bras, socks, sneakers and anything with restrictive straps or waistbands immediately after your appointment. Tight clothing can create friction and leave marks in a developing tan.
Although most cosmetic bronzer washes out of dark clothing, wearing something you do not mind potentially getting a little bronzer on is always best.
Preparing for Palm Beach Weather
South Florida heat, humidity and sudden rain can be challenging for a freshly applied spray tan.
Try to stay cool and avoid sweating until your first rinse. If rain is expected, bring an umbrella and loose clothing that provides coverage without rubbing tightly against your skin. Water droplets can leave marks while the tanning solution is still developing.
Avoid outdoor exercise, long walks, the beach, pool and any activity likely to cause perspiration before your recommended rinse time.
Do Not Apply Barrier Cream Yourself
You do not need to apply lotion to your hands, feet, knees or elbows before arriving. I will apply the appropriate barrier products during your appointment based on your skin and the areas that need protection.
Applying your own lotion beforehand may leave too much product on the skin and interfere with your results.
What Happens During Your Perfect Glow Appointment?
Before your spray tan, we will discuss your natural skin tone, undertones, previous tanning experiences and the depth of color you want to achieve.
Your solution will be selected or custom-blended specifically for you. I will also explain when to complete your first rinse and how to care for your tan based on the formula used.
There is no need to arrive knowing exactly which solution or color you need—that is part of the professional customization process.
Your Spray Tan Preparation Checklist
Before leaving for your appointment, make sure you have:
- Removed remnants of your previous tan
- Exfoliated 24 to 48 hours beforehand
- Shaved or waxed in advance
- Completed manicures, pedicures and body treatments
- Showered and arrived with clean, dry skin
- Skipped lotion, oil, deodorant, perfume and makeup
- Packed dark, loose-fitting clothing
- Brought an umbrella if rain is expected
- Planned to avoid water, sweating and tight clothing until your rinse
Following these preparation steps will help your spray tan develop smoothly, wear beautifully and fade as evenly as possible.
Ready for a natural-looking, customized glow? Book your luxury spray tan appointment at Perfect Glow Sunless™ in West Palm Beach.
