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.
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.
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.
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.
Retinol, retinoids, and exfoliating acids thin the skin and shorten the life of your sunless tanners. 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.
Bar soaps like Dove, Dial, or Ivory 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.
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.
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 (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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
