Spray Tanning

Shave & Exfoliate:
For the best results, shave any unwanted hair 12-24 hours before your appointment using a razor without a moisture strip. The night before your tan, exfoliate your entire body with an exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin. Proper exfoliation is essential for an even tan, especially if you have any leftover sunless tanner on your skin.

Avoid Products on Your Skin:
On the day of your tan, skip lotions, deodorants, oils, makeup, and fragrances, as these can create a barrier that prevents even absorption. This can lead to an uneven tan, discoloration, or patchiness. Also, avoid using Dove, Olay, or any products containing parabens, sulfates, or strong fragrances, as they can cause buildup and dryness, affecting your tan’s outcome.

Wash Your Hair in Advance:
Plan to wash your hair before your appointment or schedule your hair-washing routine accordingly. Avoid washing your hair during your first rinse after tanning, as shampoo and conditioner ingredients may interfere with the tan’s development.

Schedule Beauty Services Before Your Tan:
Your spray tan should be the final step in your beauty routine. Schedule facials, lash appointments, waxing, manicures, or any other beauty treatments at least 24 hours before your spray tan to avoid any impact on its application, longevity, or evenness.

Dress & Plan Your Day Accordingly:
Wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment and avoid activities that involve water, sweating, or excessive friction for at least 24 hours post-tan. This includes tasks like washing dishes, bathing children, or intense workouts.

During Your Tan:
Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable while achieving your desired tan! Whether it’s a bikini, bra, thong, or nothing at all, it’s entirely up to you. We also provide disposable thongs and pasties if you prefer to use them during your session. However, male clients are required to wear some form of bottoms—this is non-negotiable.

After Your Spray Tan:
We recommend wearing loose, dark clothing with long sleeves and pants to prevent any transfer or uneven development. Avoid tight clothing such as bras, leggings, jeans, or snug sneakers, as these can rub against your skin and disrupt your tan.

Weather Considerations:
New England weather can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly! If it’s raining or snowing, ensure you’re fully covered to protect your tan from moisture. In the summer, keep your car cool before heading home and wear bottoms that provide a barrier between your skin and hot surfaces, preventing unwanted transfer or smudging.

Immediately After Your Tan:
Your fresh tan needs time to develop, so avoid touching your skin, sweating, or coming into contact with any liquids. Be sure to wear loose, long clothing to prevent skin-on-skin transfer. And as much as we love pets, no puppy kisses—licks can remove or smudge your tan! Set a reminder for your designated rinse time listed below to ensure proper development.

Initial Rinse:
Your rinse time is crucial and not just a suggestion! At the scheduled time, rinse with only water using your hands to gently massage away the bronzer guide until the water runs clear. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Then, pat yourself dry with a towel—don’t rub. This rinse deactivates the tanning process to achieve the custom color depth discussed in your consultation. Keep in mind, your tan will not be fully developed at this stage—final results will appear within 12-24 hours.

First 24 Hours:
Your tan is still developing, so it’s important to avoid sweating, swimming, and shaving during this period. If you need to freshen up, a quick rinse of essential areas (like underarms and private areas) is fine, but avoid soaps, lotions, and any products that could interfere with the tanning process. Hold off on shaving until the full 24 hours have passed.

Showering Guidelines:
To maintain your tan, adjust your shower routine by using lukewarm water and keeping showers brief. Avoid exfoliating products, loofahs, and excessive scrubbing. Always pat dry with a towel instead of rubbing. When shaving, use a fresh razor without moisture strips to prevent premature fading. Steer clear of long soaks in baths, hot tubs, or pools until you're ready to remove your tan.

Daily Maintenance:
Stay hydrated and moisturize twice daily to prolong your tan’s life and keep your skin glowing. If swimming, apply a waterproof mineral sunscreen to protect your tan from chlorine and saltwater. Keep water exposure brief, rinse off after swimming, pat dry, and reapply moisturizer to maintain your glow.

Recommended Products:
What you put on your skin directly impacts how long your tan lasts. Avoid products with parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, petroleum by-products, synthetic fragrances, or alcohol, as they can strip or dry out your tan. For the best results, we offer our Modern Medspa collection of spray-tan-safe soap and skincare to maximize the longevity and appearance of your tan.