How to prepare for a spray tan

A good spray tan is a wonderful thing: that warm, healthy, just-back-from-holiday glow, without a single minute under harmful UV. But I’ll let you in on something I tell every client. The finish you walk away with depends just as much on what you do at home, before and after, as it does on the tan itself.

Get the preparation right and your tan goes on evenly, develops beautifully and lasts. Skip it, and even the best solution in the world will struggle. So here’s exactly how it works, and everything you can do to get a flawless, long-lasting glow.

The science behind your tan

Spray tan colour comes from DHA, a colourless sugar derived from plants. When it meets the amino acids in your skin, it creates the Maillard reaction, the very same reaction that turns bread golden in the oven. The colour develops only in the outermost layer of your skin, then fades gradually as those cells naturally shed. That’s why preparing the surface of your skin makes such a difference.

What you see straight away isn’t the final colour

The shade you leave with is a guide colour. Your true tan keeps developing over the hours that follow, so don’t panic if it looks light or dark at first, it will settle.

How to prepare

Exfoliate gently 24 to 48 hours before, so the colour has a smooth, even base

On the day, skip moisturiser, oils and deodorant, which can block or streak the tan

Leave at least 24 hours after waxing or shaving

Wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment

Choosing the right shade

We use professional tanning ranges with a 10 to 12 percent DHA solution, which gives a soft, natural glow much like a two-week holiday. If you’re unsure, just tell us the look you’re after and we’ll guide you.

How to make it last

Wait 8 to 24 hours before your first shower

Use lukewarm water and a gentle body wash, and pat dry rather than rub

Moisturise daily with an oil-free lotion

Avoid long baths, saunas and body oils, which speed up fading

Follow that and most clients keep an even, healthy tan for around ten days.