Your perfect spray tan starts with the best before and after care.

Prepare

2+ days before appointment

  • Your spray tan should be scheduled as your last appointment before any event. Book other services, like hair, massage, waxing, or mani/pedi, at least 48-72 hours before to your tan to allow your skin time to recover and ensure any residues are removed. Avoid laser hair removal—consult with your laser technician beforehand (most recommend waiting 6-8 weeks between treatments and tanning).

  • For the best tan, focus on keeping your skin hydrated leading up to your appointment. Drink plenty of water and apply lotion daily. I recommend using Sjolie Body Renew Moisturizer for optimal tan-safe hydration.

  • All minors under the age of 18 must have parental consent in-advance or a parent present, to receive a spray tan. Minors are required to adhere to the same policies as adults, and additional consent forms must be completed.

1 day before appointment

  • Exfoliate thoroughly with a spa-grade exfoliator (like the Sjolie Sugar Scrub) for the best results, paying extra attention to drier areas like knees, elbows, and ankles.

    This step also includes shaving, but avoid razors with built-in soap strips, as they can leave behind residues that cause uneven tan application. Men’s disposable razors are often an affordable and effective alternative.

  • Hydrate your skin thoroughly using a rich, deep-moisturizing body lotion. Apply generously over your entire body, focusing extra attention on naturally drier areas such as elbows, knees, hands, and ankles/feet.

  • For the best results, try to time your last shower at least 12 hours before your appointment. This will give your skin enough time to calm, your pores to close, and your skin to regenerate. During this shower, avoid bar soaps like Dove and cream-based cleansers, as they’re more likely to leave residues that can affect the evenness of your tan. Also, refrain from applying body lotions or other products afterward.

Day of appointment

  • Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin, and avoid deodorant, lotions, perfumes, and other skincare products. If needed, remove these items several hours before your appointment, not right before you leave. Also, avoid exfoliating or shaving on the day of your tan, as it can cause uneven color development.

    As much as possible, refrain from wearing deodorant, washing your hair, or using exfoliating products like anti-aging or acne treatments on your face before your appointment.

  • Avoid tight clothing like leggings and bras, and steer clear of white or silk fabrics. Opt for dark-colored, loose-fitting clothes, such as a long shirt and sweatpants, to prevent skin-to-skin contact or color transfer. Channel your inner Adam Sandler!

    Skip shorts and tank tops — the more coverage, the better your skin is protected while developing.

    For the ride home, sandals are ideal. If it’s chilly or wet, wear Uggs or other loose boots that you can slide on easily without rubbing your ankles or feet. Avoid socks so your feet can breathe and your color stays even.

    If you have leather or vinyl seats, bring a towel to sit on for your drive — it helps prevent sweating and keeps your fresh tan from transferring.

  • At Renuude Skin, you're free to dress according to your comfort level for the spray tan service—whether that means fully nude, partially covered with panty, or fully clothed with modest bikini. If you choose to go nude, we will provide a tanning sticker that you can place wherever you prefer. This helps us track your color development and accurately assess your color level should any issues arise.

Care & Maintain

While processing

  • During your development period, avoid all contact with water or sweat — no doing dishes, skipping through sprinklers, or post-tan cuddles (sorry boys!). Steer clear of tight clothing like bras, leggings, or waistbands that can cause friction or uneven development. If you wore socks or shoes home, be sure to remove them once you’re settled. Keep that comfy Adam Sandler outfit on until your rinse

  • The timing of your first shower after your tan is crucial. For classic tans, wait at least 8 hours before showering, getting wet, or exercising. Wearing the classic tan longer than 8 hours will not result in a deeper color; it will develop the same as if you showered at the 8-hour mark.

    For Rapid Tans, follow the specific instructions provided by your artist regarding the ideal shower time. Do NOT exceed the recommended time for wearing the solution.

    2 Hours - Light Tan

    3 Hours - Medium Tan

    4 Hours - Dark Tan

    5 Hours - Extra Dark Tan

  • If it’s hot, stay cool and comfortable in the AC. Avoid sitting outside where you might start to sweat — even light perspiration can cause streaking or uneven development. If you’re driving, start your car and get the air running before getting in, and bring a towel to sit on instead of directly on leather or vinyl seats.

    If it’s cold, bundle up carefully! Wear loose, cozy layers that won’t rub against your skin. Avoid heavy jackets or tight cuffs that can create friction. Try to keep your skin dry and warm — shivering or moisture from cold air can interfere with an even tan.

  • Your first rinse should be a “bird bath” – no soap, no exfoliating, and no hair washing. After 24 hours, you can begin using a spray tan-safe soap (I recommend Sjolie Body Wash), but avoid exfoliating or shaving. If you're using an over-the-counter body wash, steer clear of heavily scented products and bar soaps. Instead, opt for an unscented product with Aqua listed as the first ingredient.

    Be sure to rinse all of the bronzer off, or your tan may look streaky. I recommend gently rubbing your body as if you were using a washcloth to apply soap, ensuring an even cleanse.

Post Rinse

  • After showering (or swimming), always pat your skin dry with a towel rather than rubbing, to help preserve your tan. For the best results, apply your moisturizer (Sjolie Body Renew) immediately after exiting the shower to lock in extra moisture.

  • After your spray tan is fully developed, continue moisturizing your skin to maintain your glow.

    Apply Body Renew (a daily spray tan-safe moisturizer) every morning to nourish your skin. Then, before bed, apply Tan Extend Lotion to infuse your skin with a small amount of tan-preserving DHA and extra moisture.

    I can't guarantee the effectiveness of over-the-counter moisturizers

  • Anything that naturally exfoliates your skin will gradually fade your tan. Exposure to chlorine and saltwater can also lead to premature fading.

    If you're on vacation and can’t avoid swimming, be sure to rinse off with clean water afterward and hydrate your skin right away.

    A Tan Extend Lotion will work wonders to help prolong your tan.

  • Areas like the underboob, hands, and face tend to fade more quickly than others. This is due to frequent washing, product application, or natural friction from skin-to-skin contact or tight clothing. Don't be alarmed—simply incorporate Tan Extend Lotion and a self-tanner into your routine to help minimize color differences in these areas and keep your tan looking its best for longer.