What To Do Before A Spray Tan

So, you've booked yourself a magical transformation! You're heading in for that glorious spray tan, ready to emerge a bronzed goddess (or god!). But hold on there, sunshine! Before you waltz into the salon, looking like a million bucks, there are a few teeny-tiny, super-duper important things to do. Think of it as prepping your canvas for a masterpiece, except your canvas is your fabulous skin, and the masterpiece is a streak-free, gorgeous glow.

First things first: Exfoliation Station! Yes, I know, I know. It sounds like a lot of work, and maybe you just want to get straight to the bronzing. But trust me on this one, it’s the MVP of the pre-tan prep. Imagine trying to paint a wall that’s covered in dust bunnies and old, flaky bits. It’s not going to look good, right? Your skin is the same! You need to get rid of all that dead, dry skin. Think of it as giving your skin a good scrub-a-dub-dub, like you’re trying to polish a super-shiny apple. You want your tan to cling to fresh, happy skin, not to those grumpy, flaky patches that are just waiting to ruin your vibe. Get yourself a good body scrub, or even just a loofah with some gentle soap, and go to town. Elbows, knees, ankles – these are the usual suspects for dry patches, so give them extra love. Don't be shy! Channel your inner spa enthusiast and get those dead cells banished.

Next up, Shaving Savvy! If you’re planning on rocking bare legs or any other smooth-skinned situation, now’s the time to do it. Shave at least 24 hours before your tan. Why? Because if you shave too close to your appointment, those tiny little nicks and cuts can be like little open doors for the tan to get into, and let’s just say that doesn’t make for a pretty picture. Plus, freshly shaved skin is like, so smooth and ready to soak up all that lovely bronzing goodness. It’s like preparing the red carpet for your tan’s grand entrance. So, grab your razor (or your trusty waxing strip, if that’s your jam!) and make sure you’re feeling as smooth as a baby’s bottom. But remember, give your skin a little breather afterwards. We’re aiming for smooth, not sensitive.

Now, let's talk about lotions, potions, and all things slippery. The Great Moisturizer Embargo! This is a biggie. You might be thinking, "But I love my lotion! It makes me feel so… moisturized!" And yes, that’s true. But right before your spray tan? It's a no-go. Moisturizers, oils, and even some body butters can create a barrier on your skin, and that barrier is going to stop the spray tan from sticking evenly. Imagine trying to spray paint a greasy pan – the paint just beads up and slides off. Your skin can do the same thing with lotion. So, for the 12-24 hours leading up to your appointment, put that luscious body butter back on the shelf. Your skin will thank you later when it’s a uniform, gorgeous bronze. If you absolutely must moisturize, stick to a really light, oil-free one, and only on the driest of dry spots (like maybe a tiny bit on your knuckles if they feel like sandpaper), but generally, just steer clear.

Think of your skin as a delicate piece of art. You wouldn't frame a painting with fingerprints all over it, would you? We're aiming for flawless, folks!

And what about those pesky deodorants and perfumes? They’ve gotta go too! Deodorant and Perfume Purgatory! These can also act as barriers to your tan, and nobody wants weird, pale underarms or patchy spots where their favorite perfume once lingered. So, on the day of your tan, skip the deodorant and spritz your perfume after you’re all done and bronzed. It’s a small sacrifice for a killer tan, right? Think of it as a temporary break from your usual scent routine. Your new scent will be the intoxicating aroma of pure, unadulterated glow!

Finally, and this is a personal favorite, Wear Your Loosest, Darkest Duds! This is your excuse to break out those comfy, baggy clothes you love. Think flowy dresses, oversized t-shirts, and sweatpants. You do not want anything tight or constricting rubbing against your fresh tan. Imagine your beautiful new bronze getting all smudged like a toddler’s finger painting. Tragic! And wear dark colors, because let’s be honest, there might be a little bit of bronzing solution transfer, and we don’t want to be the reason your favorite light-colored socks suddenly develop a mysterious tan line. So, embrace the comfy, embrace the dark, and prepare for a cozy ride home.

Follow these simple, no-fuss steps, and you'll be well on your way to the most incredible, natural-looking spray tan of your life. It’s all about making sure your skin is happy, clean, and ready to receive its bronzed blessings. Now go forth, my friends, and get ready to shine!