How to Prep for a Spray Tan: Your 24-Hour Guide to the Perfect Glow

Posted on april 12, 2026

A Beautiful Spray Tan Starts Before You Step Into the Studio

The way you prep your skin can make a big difference in how evenly your tan develops, how natural the color looks, and how beautifully it fades. Whether you’re getting a spray tan for vacation, a wedding, a special event, or simply because you feel better with a little color, a few simple steps can help you get the most out of your appointment.

At Designer Lashes in Scottsdale, we use professional SunFX spray tanning solutions to create a customized, natural-looking glow without UV exposure.

Here’s exactly what to do before, during, and after your spray tan.

24 Hours Before Your Spray Tan

Exfoliate

This is one of the most important steps. Gently exfoliate your entire body, paying extra attention to areas where dry skin tends to build up:

• Knees
• Elbows
• Ankles
• Heels
• Tops of the feet
• Hands

Why it matters: Spray tan solution interacts with the outermost layer of your skin. Removing excess dry and dead skin helps create a smoother surface for even color. Avoid aggressively scrubbing—the goal is smooth, fresh skin, not irritation.

Shave or Wax

Try to complete shaving or waxing at least 24 hours before your appointment. Doing it immediately before your spray tan can leave skin freshly exfoliated or irritated. Giving your skin time between hair removal and your appointment creates a better canvas for your tan.

Pro Tip: If you’re getting a manicure, pedicure, facial, massage, waxing, or other body treatments, schedule those before your spray tan.

The Day of Your Spray Tan

Your skin should be clean, dry, and completely product-free when you arrive.

Avoid applying:

• Body lotion
• Body oils
• Deodorant
• Perfume
• Makeup on areas being sprayed

Oils, lotions, and other products create a barrier between your skin and the tanning solution, which interferes with an even result. If possible, shower well ahead of time rather than immediately before your appointment.

What Should You Wear?

Think loose and comfortable. After your spray tan, avoid anything tight that may rub against the skin while the tan is developing.

Great Options:

• Loose dark pants
• Oversized T-shirt
• Loose dress
• Sweatpants
• Slides or loose sandals

Skip: Tight leggings, bras, socks, restrictive waistbands, and tight shoes.

(And yes—dark clothing is your best friend on spray tan day!)

What Happens During Your Appointment?

Your spray tan isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Designer Lashes, we customize your SunFX tan based on your skin tone, desired depth of color, and the specific look you’re going for—whether that’s a subtle sun-kissed glow or a deeper bronze.

Custom Upgrades:We can enhance your experience with optional SunFX enhancement serums and finishing powder. Finishing powder is lightly dusted onto the skin at the end of the service to help reduce that sticky post-spray feeling. Choose between a matte or subtle shimmer finish.

What Is a Rapid Spray Tan?

If you don’t want to spend the rest of the day waiting to rinse, a rapid spray tan is a great option. SunFX Rapid solutions allow for an earlier rinse than traditional formulas. Your recommended rinse time depends on the solution used, your skin type, and your target shade.

Don't Panic!Your tan may look lighter immediately after your first rinse. That’s completely normal! The cosmetic bronzer rinses away, while your actual tan continues developing underneath for up to 24 hours.

Your First Shower

Follow the rinse instructions given at your appointment carefully, as timing matters—particularly with rapid solutions.

• Keep it quick: Use lukewarm water only.
• No scrubbing: Avoid soaps, loofahs, or exfoliating.
• Pat dry: Gently pat yourself dry with a towel instead of rubbing.

Once your tan has developed, keeping your skin hydrated daily will help your color look better and fade evenly.

How Long Will My Spray Tan Last?

Everyone’s skin is different, but your prep and aftercare make a noticeable difference in the life of your tan.

To Keep Your Glow Looking Its Best:

• Moisturize regularly
• Avoid aggressive exfoliation
• Keep showers warm rather than extremely hot
• Pat your skin dry after bathing
• Limit long baths and hot tubs
• Be aware that chlorine and frequent swimming fade tans faster
• Avoid heavily exfoliating skincare on areas you want to keep tan

Note: A spray tan does not protect your skin from the sun. Continue using SPF as you normally would.

Getting a Spray Tan Before a Vacation or Special Event?

Don’t wait until the last minute! For a wedding, vacation, photoshoot, or bachelorette weekend, talk to us about timing your appointment so your color fully develops before the event.

If you’ve never had a spray tan before a major occasion, we highly recommend scheduling a trial tan ahead of time. It gives us a chance to perfect the shade and depth you love before the big day.

Ready for Your Scottsdale Spray Tan?

A great spray tan shouldn’t look like a spray tan—the goal is healthy-looking, believable color that leaves you looking like you just came back from somewhere fabulous.

Designer Lashes offers customized SunFX spray tanning in Scottsdale, Arizona, including rapid spray tan options. Come clean, exfoliated, and ready to glow!

Book your spray tan at Designer Lashes in Scottsdale today, and we’ll take care of the rest.