How to Prep for a Spray Tan (The Complete Guide)
A flawless spray tan does not start in the booth. It starts days before. Proper prep is the difference between an even, long-lasting glow and a tan that fades patchy, clings to dry spots, or disappears too quickly. If you want smooth color payoff and a streak-free fade, this guide walks you through exactly how to prep your skin the right way.
If you are new to sunless tanning or want a deeper breakdown of how spray tans work, our complete Spray Tanning 101 guide is the perfect place to start.
Why Spray Tan Prep Matters
Spray tan solution only develops evenly when it is applied to balanced, properly prepped skin. Dry patches, residue from products, or freshly irritated skin all interfere with how color absorbs.
When prep is done right, you get:
- More even color from head to toe
- Better shade accuracy
- A longer-lasting tan that fades evenly
When prep is skipped, common issues include patchiness around joints, dark hands and feet, streaking, and uneven fading that breaks down within a few days.
24 to 48 Hours Before Your Spray Tan
Exfoliate Like a Pro
Exfoliation is the most important step in spray tan prep. Use an exfoliating mitt or a gentle body scrub to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface.
Pay extra attention to elbows, knees, ankles, feet, and hands. These areas tend to hold onto color if dead skin is left behind.
Avoid exfoliating the same day as your appointment. Freshly exfoliated skin can be more sensitive and may cause streaking or uneven absorption.
Hair Removal Timing
Shave at least 24 hours before your spray tan. If waxing, allow at least 48 hours. This gives pores time to close and skin time to calm down.
Hair removal too close to your appointment can leave pores open, leading to dark dots or irritation that affects how the tan develops.
Hydrate Your Skin
Hydrated skin holds color better. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment and moisturize daily with an oil-free lotion.
Skip heavy creams and oils. Lightweight hydration is key.
The Night Before Your Spray Tan
Take a Prep Shower
Shower with warm water to soften skin and remove any remaining residue. Use a simple, non-oily cleanser.
Avoid bar soaps and body washes that leave residue, including formulas with oils, heavy moisturizers, or active acids. Dove, Olay, and AHA-based washes can interfere with color development.
Finish All Beauty Services
Schedule nails, lashes, facials, massages, and injectables before your tanning day.
These services can strip or alter your tan if done afterward, especially treatments that involve oils, exfoliation, or pressure on the skin.
Day of Your Spray Tan
Skip the Products
Arrive with completely clean skin. No lotion, oils, deodorant, makeup, perfume, or SPF.
These products create a barrier that blocks spray tan solution from absorbing evenly.
Wear the Right Outfit
Choose loose, dark clothing and open-toed sandals or flip-flops.
Avoid bras, leggings, jeans, or anything with tight elastic that can rub or crease the tan while it is developing.
Many clients like to relax post-appointment in soft, breathable pieces like our women's loungewear sets to keep skin comfortable and undisturbed.
What to Expect During Your Spray Tan
You can tan nude or wear minimal clothing based on your comfort level.
Your spray tan artist will apply barrier cream to dry areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees to prevent overdevelopment.
Always communicate your shade preference, undertone goals, and past tanning experiences so your artist can customize the solution.
Aftercare Starts Immediately
Development Time
Follow your artist's rinse instructions carefully. Development time can range from one to 24 hours depending on the solution used.
During this window, avoid sweating, swimming, showering, or wearing tight clothing.
First Rinse
Rinse with warm water only. Do not use soap. Let the water run clear and gently pat dry.
Moisturizing Routine
Moisturize morning and night with an oil-free lotion to extend the life of your tan.
Avoid exfoliating until you are ready for your next tan.
Quick Spray Tan Prep Checklist
- Exfoliate 24 hours before
- Shave or wax 24 to 48 hours before
- Hydrate skin and body
- Skip lotions, oils, deodorant, and makeup on tanning day
- Wear loose, dark clothing and open-toed shoes
- Finish all beauty services before tanning day
Recommended Makai Products for Pre and Post Care
Maintaining your glow between appointments is easy with the right products:
- Shop Self Tanner for at-home maintenance
- Gradual Self Tanning Lotion to extend your spray tan evenly
- Self Tanner for Face for balanced, breakout-friendly facial color
- Makai Self Tanning Spray for quick touch-ups and hard-to-reach areas
Perfect spray tans start long before stepping into the booth. With the right prep, proper aftercare, and skin-loving formulas, your glow stays smooth, even, and natural-looking from day one to fade out.
For a deeper dive into spray tanning, revisit our Spray Tanning 101 guide and explore Makai's streak-free tanning essentials designed to work with your skin, not against it.
