Spray Tanners: How to Prep Properly for a Spray Tan
- salontropicsbr
- Oct 4
- 3 min read
A flawless, even spray tan isn’t luck, it’s prep. Whether you’re booking a quick VersaSpa Pro session or a fully custom airbrush, the steps you take before your appointment decide how smooth, streak-free, and long-lasting your glow will be.
Prepping properly for a spray tan
Proper prep is just as important as the spray tan itself. We always like to remind our Glow Members that our spray tan results and longevity are only as good as your at home prep and aftercare!
Know your skin and schedule ahead
Your skin type (based on the Fitzpatrick Scale) will determine the time it takes to help you reach your desired color. Your undertones will determine what solution your Glow Specialist will spray you with.
Every skin type takes color differently.
Oily skin may develop faster but fade sooner.
Dry or textured skin can grab too much solution and look uneven. If you’re sensitive or prone to irritation, do a small patch test 48 hours before your first spray.
Plan your session around your schedule: it’s best to spray 1–2 days before an event, giving your color time to fully develop and settle.
But always remember, prepping properly for a spray tan is the biggest factor in how well your spray tan will develop, last, and fade.
Exfoliate like a pro (but don't overdo it)
Exfoliating is non-negotiable. Remove dry, dead skin at least 24 hours before your appointment for an even surface and longer-lasting results.
Use a gentle, non-oil-based scrub or an exfoliating mitt. Focus on elbows, knees, ankles, and the back of arms — the usual “grab zones.” Avoid oil scrubs; they leave a barrier that can block absorption.
Shave or wax before the big spray day
If you need to shave, do it the day before, not right before your appointment. Freshly shaved skin can be too sensitive and cause uneven absorption.
Waxing? Give it 48 hours so your pores close and skin calms down.
Hydrate your skin from the inside out
Start drinking plenty of water two to three days before your tan, and moisturize daily with a silicone-free, sulfate-free lotion. Hydrated skin absorbs DHA (the bronzing ingredient) more evenly.
Skip lotion, perfume, deodorant, and makeup on the day of your spray tan. They create a barrier that can block the solution and lead to patchy color.
Dress for success
Wear loose, dark clothing and flip-flops or slides. Tight straps, leggings, or waistbands can rub off fresh color before it develops. Leave jewelry off, you’ll thank yourself later when you have no lines to blend.
Avoid barrier products and heavy fragrances
For 24 hours before your appointment, avoid anything that coats your skin: body butters, self-tanners, oil perfumes, or alcohol-based sprays. A clean, product-free canvas ensures the tanning solution develops evenly and lasts longer.
Talk with your glow specialist
Communication is everything. Let your Glow Specialist know your skin tone goals and event timeline. They’ll choose the perfect solution and customize undertones for your complexion, whether that’s a soft sun kissed glow or a rich island bronze.
Aftercare: lock it in
Wait 8–12 hours before your first shower (or the time your technician recommends).
Use lukewarm water and a clear, sulfate-free body wash.
Pat dry — don’t rub.
Moisturize morning and night with a tan-safe extender to keep color even.
Pro Tip:
Use Salon Tropics’ Catch Flights, Not Fades Tan Extender to extend your spray tan by up to 50% while keeping skin hydrated and radiant.
Final glow thoughts
Proper prep is the difference between a tan that lasts two days and one that lasts a week. Exfoliate, hydrate, and show up product-free, then let our Glow Specialists handle the rest.
Your glow doesn’t need luck. It just needs prep.
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