Preparation & Aftercare
Before & After Your Spray Tan
What you do in the hours either side of your appointment makes more difference than almost anything else. Here is exactly what to do.
Before Your Appointment
Four Things to Do First
Exfoliate your skin
Gently exfoliate to remove dead cells and create a smooth surface. Pay special attention to rough areas like elbows, knees and ankles.
Skip moisturizers and oils
Nothing on the day. They create a barrier that stops the tanning solution absorbing properly.
No makeup, deodorant or perfume
Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face. All three interfere with the tanning process.
Wear loose, dark clothing
Tight clothing disrupts application and smudges the tan while it develops.
After Your Appointment
Eight Rules for a Longer-Lasting Tan
The Short Version
If You Remember Nothing Else
Exfoliate before, arrive with clean bare skin, and wear something loose and dark home.
Then wait 8 to 12 hours before that first lukewarm shower, pat yourself dry rather than rubbing, and moisturize every day afterwards.
Do those and you will get the full life out of your tan. Skip them and it fades unevenly, which is almost always what has gone wrong when someone is unhappy with a result.
More detail on our spray tanning FAQ page, or read about bridal timing if you have a wedding coming up.
How long before I can shower?
Wait at least 8 to 12 hours so the DHA has time to react fully with your skin. Showering earlier cuts the development short and you will not get the color you paid for.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Loose, dark-colored clothing. Tight clothing disrupts the application and can smudge the tan before it develops.
Why can't I wear deodorant or perfume?
Both interfere with the tanning process and can cause patchy areas, particularly under the arms. Come with clean skin and put them on afterwards.
Can I use hot water in my first shower?
Use lukewarm. Hot water strips the tan more quickly, and harsh soaps or exfoliating products will take it off faster still.
Why pat dry instead of rubbing?
Rubbing with a towel is a form of exfoliation. Patting preserves the tan and stops you taking it off unevenly.
When can I work out again?
Give it time. Heavy sweating fades a tan faster, so avoid strenuous activity and saunas immediately after your session.
How often should I rebook?
Every one to two weeks keeps a consistent tan, depending on your preferences and lifestyle.
Does a spray tan protect me from the sun?
No, not at all. Keep using sunscreen with an appropriate SPF whenever your skin is exposed to sunlight.
Begin
Ready When You Are
Exfoliate tonight, book for tomorrow, and bring something loose and dark to change into.
Vanilla Sugar Face & Body
7930 N University St, Peoria, IL 61615
(309) 219-1140 · By appointment only
Mon–Thu 9am–8pm · Fri 9am–6pm · Sat 9am–3pm · Sun closed