You've got an event coming up, and you want to look your best for it. How can you ensure your skin is glowing when it needs to be? The answer is simple, fake tanning! It's fast, easy, long-lasting, fully customisable and gives you a whole lot of confidence.

First timer? Let's take a look at what you can expect on the day of your spray tan and go over some simple prep and aftercare steps to keep you luminous for longer. 

How many days before your event should you book your spray tan? 

The time frame will vary depending on how much time you have to prepare but aim for 2 days to allow the colour to develop and settle on your skin. 

Spray Tan Prep | A few days before 

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise 

Aim to apply a hydrating moisturiser every day. Regular nourishment is great for your skin and your tan. 

Hydrated, healthy skin = even, long-lasting tan. 

Searching for an ultra-hydrating body cream that’s non-greasy and lightweight? We recommend the Australian Skin Institute's Mango & Witch Hazel Body Moisturiser. Find it here.

Exfoliate

Make sure you exfoliate your body at least once, a day or 2 before your tan. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells and reveals new luminous skin. Not only will your tan last longer, but it won't go patchy when it starts to fade.

For the best results, we recommend using an exfoliation cloth. Find our favourite here.

Remove any unwanted hair

If you're planning on waxing, shaving or getting IPL, make sure you do it a day or 2 before your tan. Removing hair on the day of your appointment can affect the longevity and evenness of your tan. Removing hair after your tan will lead to patchiness, and you'll end up removing your spray tan with the hair. Always remove any unwanted hair a day or 2 before your spray tan appointment. 

Spray Tan Prep | On the day

The best part about a professional spray tan is how easy it is. All you need to do is make sure you remove any makeup, deodorant or moisturiser before your appointment, and your therapist will do the rest for you. Easy-peasy! 

What To Wear To Your Spray Tan 

Wear something loose & comfortable and avoid closed-in shoes– thongs are a great option. We recommend going braless after your spray tan to prevent your tan from rubbing off while processing and looking patchy. Your spray tan will always rub off a little on your clothes but will easily come off in the wash. The goal is to avoid wearing anything that will rub against the tan and leave a mark on your skin. Remember, this is just while the tan is processing - after that, you can wear whatever you like. 

What To Expect At Your Spray Tan Appointment 

Colour selection 

Let your therapist know it's your first time getting a spray tan, so they know to walk you through the entire process. Your therapist will chat with you about the colour you want to achieve and customise your spray tan accordingly. Don't worry, the days of orange fake tans are well and truly over. Spray tan formulations are now much more advanced and look extremely natural. 

What should I wear during the spray tan? 

It's totally up to you! But keep in mind anything your do wear will leave a tan line, which is why most people choose to wear only a disposable g-string or nothing. 

Top tip! If your spray tan is for an event, consider what you're wearing. For example, if you're wearing a dress with a low back, you will want to avoid wearing anything that will leave a tan line on your back. 

Once your spray tan is applied, your therapist will leave you to carefully get dressed. You may look a little darker than expected when you look in the mirror - this is normal! The colour you see now is temporary. 

How long do I need to wait before showering? 

Your therapist will let you know how long you need to wait before showering after your spray tan, but it's generally around 1-2hours. During this time, avoid moisture and excessive sweating. It's a great time to relax in the air-conditioning. 

When it comes time to shower, use lukewarm water and aim for a quick rinse. Depending on the formula, there's a chance you'll now feel like all of your tan has completely washed away. Again, totally normal! 

Your spray tan will continue to develop and settle over the next 24hrs, and you’ll soon have gorgeous, bronzed skin. 

How Long Does A Spray Tan Last?

It all depends on how well you care for your spray tan. A spray tan usually lasts around 7 days, but with great aftercare it can last up to 2 weeks. 

Aftercare 

• Moisturise every day.
• Avoid swimming and long hot showers.
• Avoid products that contain alcohol, like face toners. 
• Use a tan extender– this is a game-changer. Find our favourite tan extender here. 

With Proper Prep & Aftercare, You're Guaranteed To Achieve A Flawless, Glowing, Long-Lasting Tan 

If you follow the above, you will be well on your way to an even, long-lasting, radiant spray tan. It really is that easy! 

Ready to book in? Click here