The Week Before:
- Exfoliate and moisturise daily.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Complete all beauty treatments (waxing, nails, lashes etc.) before your spray tan — this should always be your final treatment.
24 Hours Before:
- Exfoliate your entire body, especially elbows, knees, ankles, feet, and face.
- Use a mitt, sponge, or body scrub.
- Avoid moisturising body washes (like Dove) — they can leave a barrier on your skin.
- Use a pH-balanced body wash instead.
- Waxing? Do it 24–48 hours before your tan to allow pores to close.
- If shaving, exfoliate again afterwards to remove any residue from shaving gels or moisturising strips.
On the Day of Your Tan:
- No showering within 4 hours of your appointment — your skin needs time to dry and pH levels to rebalance.
- Do not apply moisturiser, deodorant, perfume, or makeup.
- These act as barriers and can turn green on contact with the tan.
- Properly cleanse your face — avoid face wipes as they can leave residue.
- Remove all jewellery and contact lenses before your session.
- Wear loose, dark clothing and flip flops or slip-on shoes.
- Avoid straps, tight waistbands, socks, or anything that could rub the developing tan.
After Your Tan – While It’s Developing:
- Avoid tight clothing.
- Don’t exercise or sweat.
- Don’t get wet (showers, swimming, handwashing, rain etc.)
- Avoid moisturisers or touching your skin.
- Don’t wear socks or closed shoes.
Note: I’ll wipe your palms and fingertips after your session. Any marks later are from hands touching the tan during development.
Leave your tan to develop for the advised time:
- Classic tan: minimum of 8 hours
- Rapid tan: I’ll advise the correct rinse time depending on your tone goal
First Rinse:
- Use warm water only — no soap, no shower gel.
- Rinse until water runs clear.
- Gently pat yourself dry with a towel.
- Moisturise immediately after.
Ongoing Aftercare:
- Moisturise daily with a water-based product (e.g. Nivea).
- Avoid oil-based lotions and body washes as they strip your tan.
- Avoid lotions with Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) — these increase exfoliation and fade tan faster.
- Pat dry after showers — don’t rub.
- Keep face and hands hydrated — they fade first due to frequent washing.
- Limit swimming and long baths to prevent early fading.
- For holidays: Use a gradual tan product alongside your spray tan to maintain colour. Ask me for recommendations when you book.
Exfoliate & Top-Up:
- Gently exfoliate from Day 4 onwards to help your tan wear off evenly and prep for your next one.
Important Reminder:
Spray tans do not contain SPF. Always wear sun protection — I recommend mineral oil–free lotions to avoid stripping your colour.