To avoid uneven or blotchy areas of tan, it is essential to start exfoliating and hydrating the skin at least 2-3 days before your spray tan. 

Exfoliation will help to remove any excess dead skin cells to reveal fresh, youthful skin. Exfoliation will also prep the skin exposing an even surface to spray, which in turn allows for an even application without error after the DHA is applied. At a minimum, it is recommended clients exfoliate and hydrate 24 hours before the spray tan session. Clients should use a spa grade exfoliator containing no oils for best results. Moisturizing is also vital in spray tan preparation. Adding moisture to the skin will decrease the chance of discoloration, patchiness, alligator skin, and overdevelopment in drier areas upon application. Remember: Hydrated skin is healthier, and healthy skin will “hold” onto those skin cells that have absorbed the DHA.  

An important reminder for clients: All beauty appointments should be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled tanning session. Services like pedicures, massages, and hair appointments can affect the outcome of a spray tan if done too close to the sunless appointment.

Clients must remember to constantly hydrate the skin and body by drinking plenty of water and applying a daily moisturizer, at least 1-2 times per day. Ideally, using a recommended spa-grade moisturizer is best. For those clients who wish to find an over the counter moisturizer, recommend they look for a product that is oil-free, water-based, and contains minimal fragrance-this type of product will be best in improving the longevity of a spray tan. Clients should avoid using Coconut Oil as a moisturizer. Why? This concentrate can strip the tan rather than hydrate because of the oils.  

Daily soaps and washes will also affect the longevity of a spray tan. It is best to use water-based oil-free products. Soaps and washes with harsh ingredients and a large number of sulfates will slowly strip the tan diminishing its lifespan. 

Other helpful maintenance tips: 

• Activities that may cause excessive sweating (gym, yoga, and other exercises) can cause friction which will remove a tan. 

• Chlorine and Salt-Water are abrasive and act as exfoliators, it’s best to minimize exposure to these chemicals. Those clients on vacations who are exposed should be forwarned that their spray tans may not last the duration of the promised time. 

• Forms of exfoliation such as scrubs, chemical peels, and shaving will remove a tan. Minimize use of these products as much as possible. 

Day of tanning session maintenance is of utmost importance. Clients must follow these guidelines to improve the outcome of their spray tan: 

• Wear loose-fitting, dark, cotton clothing. Avoid silk; refrain from wearing close-toed shoes and socks, tight restrictive pants, tops, and bras; and do not wear white. 

• Remove perfumes, deodorants, and lotions before arriving at the spray tan appointment.

• It is best to avoid using soaps and shampoos in the shower immediately before the tanning appointment, instead, the client should take a “bird bath” to gently remove residues with hand and water only. 

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to hydrate the body and skin; hydration starts from the inside! 

• Avoid using oil-based products the day of tanning session, these oils could act as a barrier to DHA and cause an uneven development and lessen the longevity of a spray tan.