How to
Prep for Your Spray Tan

Good skin prep is what makes the difference between an average spray tan and a flawless, long-lasting one. Follow these simple guidelines to ensure your tan applies evenly, develops correctly, and fades naturally.

Before Appointment

NON-NEGOTIABLES: Do Not Skip These Before Your Spray Tan

  • Your spray tan should be your last appointment before any event. Schedule services like hair, massage, waxing, or mani/pedis at least 48–72 hours before your tan to allow your skin time to recover and ensure no residues interfere with your results.

    Avoid laser hair removal before your spray tan—most providers recommend waiting 6–8 weeks between treatments and tanning. When in doubt, consult your laser technician.

  • Exfoliate thoroughly using a gentle, oil-free scrub to remove dry skin and create a smooth surface for even color. Pay extra attention to knees, elbows, ankles, and any dry areas.

    Shaving should be done at the same time, but avoid razors with built-in soap strips, they can leave behind residue that affects how your tan develops. A basic disposable razor is often the best option.

  • Keeping your skin well-hydrated leading up to your appointment helps your spray tan apply more evenly and fade more naturally. Use a rich, simple moisturizer in the days leading up to your tan, focusing on drier areas like elbows, knees, hands, and feet.

    Avoid heavy oils or anything that leaves a residue on the skin.

  • Your last shower should be at least 8–12 hours before your appointment to allow your skin to fully dry, your pores to close, and your pH to rebalance.

    During this shower:

    • Avoid bar soaps (like Dove) and creamy body washes

    • Use a gentle, residue-free cleanser

    • Do not apply lotion, deodorant, or any products afterward

  • Arrive with completely clean, product-free skin. This means:

    • no lotion

    • no deodorant

    • no perfume

    • no makeup

    Even small amounts of residue can create barriers on the skin and lead to uneven results.

Day Of Appointment

  • 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.

    If needed, remove products well before your appointment, not right before leaving.

    Avoid shaving or exfoliating the day of your tan, as this can cause irritation and uneven color development.

    Also avoid using active skincare (like acne treatments or anti-aging products) on your face before your appointment.

  • Choose loose-fitting, dark clothing to wear after your appointment to prevent rubbing, sweating, or color transfer while your tan develops.

    Avoid tight items like leggings, bras, or anything restrictive. Skip white or delicate fabrics like silk.

    The more coverage your clothing provides, the better your skin is protected during development.

  • For the best results after your appointment:

    • Wear sandals or easy slip-on shoes (avoid socks if possible)

    • If it’s cold, opt for loose boots like Uggs

    • Bring a towel to sit on if you have leather or heated seats

    These small details help prevent sweating, friction, and uneven fading.

  • At Renūude Skin, you can dress to your comfort level during your spray tan, whether that’s fully nude, partially covered, or wearing a swimsuit.

    If you choose to go nude, a small tanning sticker will be provided. This allows us to monitor your color development and ensure your final result develops exactly as intended.

Spray Tan Prep Timeline

Following the right spray tan prep timeline helps ensure your tan applies evenly, develops correctly, and lasts as long as possible. From scheduling other beauty services to timing your final shower, each step plays a role in your overall result.

Use this timeline as a simple guide leading up to your appointment to avoid common mistakes and get the most out of your spray tan.

How to Maintain Your Spray Tan

For Long-Lasting Results
(Aftercare Guide)

  • While your tan is developing, it’s important to keep your skin completely dry. Avoid showering, sweating, swimming, or any activity that could cause moisture or friction.

    Wear loose, dark clothing and avoid anything tight that may rub against your skin, as this can affect how your tan develops.

  • Your rinse time will be customized based on your desired result and the solution used. Rinsing too early can result in a lighter tan, while waiting too long may lead to overdevelopment.

    Set a timer if needed and follow your rinse instructions exactly for the best outcome.

  • During your first rinse, you’ll see the cosmetic bronzer washing away — this is normal and not your final color.

    Rinse with lukewarm water only and avoid using soap, body wash, or shampoo during this first rinse. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, then gently pat your skin dry.

    Avoid rubbing your skin with a towel, as this can cause uneven fading.

  • Hydrated skin holds color longer. Begin moisturizing daily after your first rinse using a gentle, oil-free lotion.

    For best results, use products specifically designed for spray tans, like a tan extender, to maintain an even, longer-lasting glow.

  • To extend the life of your spray tan, avoid anything that accelerates skin turnover or strips moisture from the skin.

    This includes long, hot showers, swimming (especially in chlorinated pools), saunas, hot tubs, and excessive sweating. These can all cause your tan to fade more quickly and unevenly.

  • Certain areas naturally fade more quickly due to friction and dryness — especially hands, feet, elbows, knees, and underarms.

    Keep these areas well-moisturized and avoid excessive scrubbing to help maintain a more even fade.

Spray Tan Aftercare Products That Actually Work

Not all skincare works with a spray tan. These are my most recommended aftercare products to help your tan last longer, fade evenly, and look its best from day one to day seven.

A gentle, sulfate-free body wash designed for spray tan aftercare. Cleanses without stripping your tan, helping your color fade evenly and last longer.

Shower Gel

Your daytime hydration essential. This deeply moisturizing lotion keeps skin smooth, balanced, and hydrated throughout the day to prevent patchy fading and extend the life of your spray tan.

Body Renew (AM)

Your nighttime spray tan extender. This lightweight moisturizer contains a touch of DHA to gradually boost color while you sleep, keeping your tan fresh, even, and glowing between appointments.

Tan Extend (PM)