When should I exfoliate before my spray tan session?

You should exfoliate 1–2 days before your spray tan appointment using an exfoliating mitt (not a scrub) to remove dead skin cells and improve uptake of the spray tan solution.

Can I shower or get wet too early after being sprayed?

If you used the traditional solution, wait at least 12 hours before showering. For rapid rinse solutions, follow your specialist’s guidance (typically 2–5 hours).

What products should I avoid before getting a spray tan?

Avoid lotions with mineral oil or petroleum, washes containing sulfates, bar soaps, and products containing retinol or acids to prevent uneven results.

What clothing should I wear after my spray tan?

Wear loose, dark cotton clothing—long pants, long sleeves, flip flops—and avoid tight clothes or tanks to prevent rubbing or double application.

How to Prepare for Spray Tanning

1-2 Days Before Appointment

Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate!

Spray tan exfoliating is the foundation of proper preparation. In the days leading up to your spray tan appointment, exfoliate your entire body head to toe using an exfoliating mitt (not a scrub). This gently removes dead skin cells, old sunless tanners, and dry areas that can cause uneven results. Pay extra attention to feet, knees, elbows, underarms, and the back of arms, as these dry areas tend to cling to more spray solution than other parts of the body.

We absolutely love our goGLOW EXFOLIATE mitts, available in our salons and online shop. They are specifically formulated for tan prep, helping you buff away dead skin and create clean skin for a smooth, even tan that fully develops into the right shade for your skin type. Think of this step as the foundation of your perfect tan — a golden glow and long lasting tan start with proper skin prep.

Shave or Wax at Least 8 Hours Before Appointment

Hair removal is another crucial step in spray tanning preparation. Whether you shave or wax, it should be done at least 8 hours before your spray tan session (ideally a full day before). This timing allows your pores to close and prevents spray solution from settling into them, which can otherwise leave dark spots or unwanted tan lines.

Avoid services like facials, manicures, pedicures, or massages too close to your spray tan, as oils and lotions used during these treatments can create a barrier cream effect, preventing the tanning solution from adhering evenly. Done correctly, shaving or waxing contributes to a smooth, natural looking tan that will last longer and look flawless.

Avoid Lotions with Mineral Oil or Petroleum

Many lotions contain mineral oils or petroleum that create a barrier on the skin. These ingredients interfere with spray tan solution, preventing it from blending evenly and leaving behind streaks or patches. For proper preparation, skip these heavy lotions in the days leading to your spray tan appointment, and wear loose fitting clothes to avoid rubbing or sweating afterward.

Discontinue the Use of Any Washes with Sulfates

Sulfates in body wash and skincare products can strip your skin, leaving it dry and more likely to absorb tanning solution unevenly. Switching to a gentle body wash like goGLOW CLEANSE, which is specifically formulated to maintain your skin’s balance, will help your spray tan fully develop and provide a natural, sun kissed glow. This also helps extend the life of your tan, keeping your skin moisturized and smooth.

Discontinue the Use of Any Retinol or Retinoids (Including Tretinoin)

Retinol, retinoids (including prescription-strength tretinoin), and exfoliating acids can thin the skin and shorten the lifespan of your sunless tan. These products accelerate cell turnover, leading to patchy application and uneven fading. Discontinue use at least several days before your spray tan prep to avoid patchy areas. Retinoids can also cause uneven results because they accelerate cell turnover, which may lead to faster fading of your golden glow.

Discontinue the Use of Any Bar Soaps, Sulfates, and Sudsing Agents

Dove, Olay, or Ivory products are not ideal for spray tanning preparation. They disrupt your skin’s pH balance and can create a barrier that prevents spray solution from blending smoothly. This can result in patchiness, an unnatural dark tan, or an undesirable orange tone. Instead, prepare your skin with goGLOW CLEANSE and an exfoliating mitt for clean skin that’s ready to absorb the tanning solution evenly.

Day of Appointment

Pack Appropriate Clothing!

If it’s raining or snowing, make sure you have proper attire that covers you from head to toe. You will need to put on loose, dark cotton clothing after your glow. The best outfit to wear after you are sprayed is loose pants, a long-sleeve t-shirt, and slide shoes or flip-flops. Do not wear a tank top, shorts, or short dresses after your goGLOW.

Take a Shower – But Just a Cool Water Rinse

Any soaps, shampoos, or conditioners that get on your skin the day of your tan may leave a residue and interfere with the sunless tanning process by leaving a film on your skin that results in a blotchy tan. You may use goGLOW CLEANSE wash, though!

Skip the Lotions, Oils, Perfume, Makeup and Deodorant

Skip the lotions (with goGLOW HYDRATE being the exception), oils, perfume, makeup, and deodorant, or plan on using an eXmit.

Mineral Oil/Petroleum: These are occlusive ingredients that create a barrier on the skin, preventing the spray tan solution from properly adhering and causing uneven color.

Sulfates: Harsh cleansing agents that strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry and prone to uneven tan application.

Retinol/Retinoids: Active ingredients that speed up cell turnover, leading to peeling and uneven tan results if used close to a spray tan appointment.

Under Garment Policy

WOMEN: Plan on wearing dark-colored underwear or swim bottoms. This will be your tan line. Our staff is professional and discreet, so you may wear whatever you’d like (or nothing) during your session.

MEN: Plan on wearing dark boxers or undergarments. Male clients are required to wear bottoms.

After Appointment

Long Pants, Long Sleeves

Change into cotton long pants and long sleeves. Avoid shorts, tank tops, or tight clothing, or clothing that allows your skin to touch skin. This can result in double processing of the goGLOW.

How Long Should You Wait Before Showering?

If you were sprayed with our traditional solution, wait at least 12 hours to shower or get wet unless instructed otherwise by your goGLOW specialist.

If you used a rapid rinse solution, rinse at the time your specialist suggests (usually 2–5 hours after being sprayed).

During your first rinse, completely remove all cosmetic bronzers using cool water and your hands only. Make sure the water runs clear. If you see streaks or spots, hop back in the shower. Pat gently dry or air dry afterward. Once dry, you can apply goGLOW HYDRATE lotion anytime.

After rinsing, you’ll see your true color without cosmetic bronzer. If you’re dark enough to your liking and want to stop further development, use CLEANSE wash. All goGLOW solutions reach final development at 24 hours if you don’t use any additional products.

Keep Your Skin Hydrated and Moisturized

Once you’ve rinsed, apply goGLOW HYDRATE lotion. Avoid mineral oil, AHAs, petroleum, ethanol, exfoliating, and alcohol-based products as these will strip your tan faster. goGLOW products are safe, non-toxic, and formulated to preserve your tan, promote healthy hydrated skin, and keep your glow lasting longer.

Stay Cool, Stay Safe, and GLOW All Out

Avoid over-showering, long hot showers or baths, chlorine, loofahs, and exfoliants of any kind for 5–7 days. Keep in mind that soaking and scrubbing during nail treatments can remove the tan on your legs and feet.

Find your location

Introduction to Spray Tanning

Spray tanning has become a go-to solution for anyone seeking a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow—without the risks of UV exposure. Whether you’re prepping for a special event or just want to boost your everyday radiance, a spray tan offers a safe, customizable way to achieve the perfect tan for your skin tone. The process involves applying a specialized tanning solution, typically containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the outer layer of your skin to create a natural-looking tan. One of the best things about spray tanning is its versatility. Your tanning expert can tailor the shade to your preferences, from a subtle glow to a deep, dark tan, ensuring you absolutely love your results. Sessions are quick and convenient—usually taking just 15-30 minutes at a reputable salon—and with the right aftercare, your tan can last for days. Not only does a spray tan enhance your skin’s appearance by evening out tone and concealing imperfections, but it also gives you that healthy, radiant look all year round. To get the most out of your spray tan, it’s important to follow expert tan tips and proper preparation. With a little planning and the right products, you’ll enjoy a flawless, long-lasting glow that looks and feels natural.

Understanding Your Skin Type

Knowing your skin type is the secret to achieving a flawless spray tan. Every skin type—whether normal, dry, oily, or combination—has its own needs when it comes to spray tanning preparation and aftercare. Normal skin is balanced and typically responds well to most tanning solutions, making it easy to achieve an even tan. If you have dry skin, you’ll want to focus on moisturizing daily to prevent flakiness and ensure your tan develops smoothly. Oily skin, on the other hand, may require special prep to help the tanning solution adhere properly and avoid an uneven tan. Combination skin benefits from a targeted approach, treating dry areas with extra hydration and managing oilier zones to prevent patchiness. A tanning expert can help you identify your skin type and recommend the best spray tan solution and prep routine for you. By understanding your skin’s unique characteristics, you can create a personalized plan that maximizes your results and keeps your glow looking fresh for as long as possible. No matter your skin type, with the right preparation and aftercare, you can achieve a beautiful, even spray tan that enhances your natural beauty.

1-2 Days Before Your Appointment

In the days leading up to your spray tan appointment, setting the stage for a flawless tan starts with proper skin prep. Exfoliating 1-2 days before your session is key to removing dead skin cells and creating a smooth, even surface for the tanning solution. Choose a gentle exfoliator that matches your skin type—avoid anything too harsh that could cause irritation or dryness. Pay extra attention to rough spots like elbows, knees, and ankles, as these areas tend to hold onto dead skin and can lead to uneven color. After exfoliating, be sure to moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and supple. Steer clear of heavy oils or products that could create a barrier and affect how the spray tan develops. It’s also a good idea to avoid waxing or shaving right before your appointment, as this can leave your skin sensitive and impact the tan’s evenness. On the day before your spray tan, opt for loose, dark clothing to prevent any rubbing or staining, and avoid using deodorant, perfume, or makeup that could interfere with the tanning solution. Keep your skin hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water, and try to get a good night’s rest so your skin is in its best condition for your glow-up. With these simple steps, you’ll be perfectly prepared for your spray tan appointment.

Day of Your Appointment

The day of your spray tan appointment is all about making sure you’re comfortable, relaxed, and ready for your best glow yet. Arrive at your salon at least 15 minutes early to take care of any paperwork and settle in. Wear loose, dark clothing that you don’t mind getting a little color on—tight clothing or shoes can rub off the tanning solution and lead to uneven results. Leave jewelry, watches, and accessories at home or remove them before your session to avoid any unwanted tan lines. If you have long hair, bring a hair cap or tie to keep it out of the way during your spray. Be prepared to stand for a few minutes while your tanning expert applies the solution, and don’t be surprised if the spray feels a bit cool at first—that’s totally normal! Listen to your technician’s instructions and feel free to ask questions about the process or aftercare. Most importantly, take a deep breath and enjoy the experience. A spray tan session is a great way to pamper yourself and walk out feeling confident and radiant.

Stay cool, stay safe, and GLOW all out.

Avoid over showering, long hot showers and baths, chlorine, loofahs and exfoliants of any kind for 5-7 days. Keep in mind, the act of soaking and scrubbing during any nail treatments will remove the tan on the legs and feet. Many salons offer additional aftercare services and can help you select the right shade to complement your skin tone and overall look.