our Spray Tan Preparation Checklist
How to Prepare for a Sunless Spray Tan
Your Skin Is the Canvas
A beautiful spray tan starts with the skin underneath it.
Proper preparation helps create a smooth, even surface for your tan to develop on and can make a noticeable difference in how your color looks, wears, and fades. That is why preparation is not an afterthought at Southern Glow. It is part of the experience.
Spray Tan Prep
SHOWERING
Any bar soaps/cream-based body washes (Dove specifically) are known to leave a residue on the skin and can create a barrier that the tan cannot penetrate through and may leave streaks. Any gel-based body wash is best. Showering should be completed at least four hours prior to tanning to allow your pH levels to neutralize. If you must shower within four hours, run cold water at the end of your shower.
SPA TREATMENTS
Tanning should always be the last beauty treatment completed due to the barriers that spa treatment products can create. Complete all facials, and massages the day prior.
CLOTHING
Wear dark, loose-fitting clothing with open-toed sandals. Please note that the bronzer in solution may transfer to your items, but is water soluble and should wash out.
MANI + PEDI
Complete manicures + pedicures the day prior. If completed day-of tan, please forgo any oils/lotions that your nail technician might apply on you. If completed days after tan, your tan may become uneven due to soaking, acetone, oils, lotions, etc.
WAX + SHAVE
Waxing should be completed at least 48 hours prior to your appointment and shaving should be completed with a razor that lacks a moisture strip.
EXFOLIATE
Stray away from a body scrub/loofah combo as most are oil-based and will leave a residue. Instead, use a exfoliating mitt.
NO BARRIERS
Forgo any lotions, oils, deodorant, perfumes, or makeup the day of your appointment. All of these can create a barrier on the skin that the tan will not adhere to.
Spray Tan Maintenance
BEFORE RINSING
Do not get wet or sweat until your initial rinse. This means no showering, working out, lotions, or liquid foundations on the skin until after you take your initial rinse. If you have pets, do not let them lick you.
INITIAL RINSE
If you do not rinse at your designated time, your tan may develop too light or too dark. Do not use soap. Temperature should be lukewarm. If you see streaks after getting out the shower, hop back in and use your hand to guide the leftover bronzer off.
STAY HYDRATED
The more hydrated your skin is, the longer your tan will last. Your moisturizer should be free of mineral oil and artificial fragrance. You may use a tan extending lotion that contains DHA after day three. In addition, be sure to drink lots of water.
ACTIVITY CHECK
Avoid swimming in the pool/ocean for long periods of time, long hot showers/baths, saunas, and excessive sweating. Your tan will not last very long if you are planning to do any of these activities.
FUTURE SHOWERS
Avoid using any loofahs or wash rags during your showers. It is best to wash with hands only in areas where needed (pits + privates) to ensure a long-lasting tan. A gel-based body wash is best.
NO TOUCHING
If you touch yourself while your tan is developing, this could result in stained palms.
How should I prepare for a Spray Tan?
THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Exfoliate. Gently exfoliate with our Exfoliating Mitt over your entire body, paying special attention to dry areas such as elbows, knees, ankles, and wrists. An exfoliating mitt can help create a smooth surface for an even application.
Shave or wax. Complete waxing at least 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. If shaving, do so the night before whenever possible.
Complete other beauty services. Manicures, pedicures, facials, lashes, and other spa treatments are best completed before your spray tan.
Hydrate your skin. Follow your normal skincare routine the night before, but arrive for your appointment with clean, completely dry skin. Our Body Butter is rich and creamy and highly moisturizing for the days leading up to your appointment.
THE DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT
Arrive with clean skin and skip lotion, body oils, deodorant, perfume, and makeup before your appointment. These products can create a barrier between your skin and the tanning solution.
Remove jewelry before your appointment and plan to wear loose, dark, comfortable clothing afterward. Avoid tight clothing, shoes, or anything that can rub against developing color.
AFTER YOUR TAN
Keep your tan dry while it develops according to Brie's instructions. Avoid water, sweating, swimming, and other activities that can interfere with development.
When it is time to rinse, take a gentle shower. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating your skin during the initial rinse.
How to make your spray tan last
The secret to a long-lasting tan isn't adding more color. It's taking care of the skin underneath it.
Keep your skin hydrated, use gentle products, avoid unnecessary exfoliation, and be mindful of activities that can accelerate fading, such as long hot baths, swimming, and excessive sweating.
One of the easiest ways to extend your glow is consistent hydration and a little added color boost. That's why Brie recommends using the Self Tanning Mousse, the Body Butter, Tan Extender Lotion or the Tanning Water as part of your aftercare routine.
Southern Glow Tan Care Favorites
The products you use between appointments matter. Brie has selected her favorite essentials for preparing your skin, maintaining your color, and keeping your skin beautifully hydrated.
BEFORE YOUR TAN
Tan Remover
Exfoliating Mitt
Body Wash
AFTER YOUR TAN
Body Wash
Tan Extender Lotion
Body Butter
Self Tanning Mousse
Southern Glow Airbrush
2630 Justin Rd #106
Highland Village, TX 75077
425-281-9171
Email: [email protected]
Monday 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Tuesday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Wednesday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Thursday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Friday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday - by request only
Sunday - Closed