Summary
The best way to prepare for a spray tan starts at home, with exfoliation, moisturisation, and hair removal at least 24 hours before your appointment. When you arrive, you’ll complete the final stages of spray tan prep by applying barrier cream to dry areas, putting on your complimentary hair net and sticky feet, and familiarising yourself with the automated spray tan booth.
In this guide, we share a simple spray tan prep timeline, advice on what to wear, a dos and don’ts checklist, and answers to the most common spray tanning prep questions in Ireland.
How to Prepare for a Spray Tan
New to spray tanning or using an automated spray tan booth for the first time? Whether you’re a complete beginner or just need a refresher, this guide walks you through the essential steps for achieving a flawless, natural-looking tan.
From prepping skin for a spray tan to insider tips for maintaining your glow, our spray tanning experts have brought together their best spray tan prep tips, all in one place.
5 Days Before (Optional but Ideal)
We recommend starting your exfoliation and hydration ritual early, especially if you have particularly dry skin. This helps avoid last-minute scrubbing that can irritate and damage the skin.
24 Hours Before
Complete any shaving or waxing at least 24 hours before your appointment. Exfoliate and moisturise using an oil-free lotion to keep skin smooth and balanced.
On the day
Shower using clean water only. Avoid soaps, body washes, deodorant, makeup, perfume, and lotions. Wear dark, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.
What to Wear (Before, During, and After)
Before – Arrive at your appointment in whatever makes you comfortable. For convenience, it’s best to show up in the clothes you plan to wear immediately after your tanning session.
During – Our automated spray tan booths are completely private, so you’re free to tan as you wish! Go nude or wear swimwear or underwear (opt for dark colours to avoid staining).
After – Change into dark, loose-fitting clothes. Although our booths include a drying function that allows you to dress immediately, tight clothing can rub against the skin, causing uneven colour development.
Barrier Cream – A Hydrating Essential
An essential stage in pre-spray tan prep, barrier cream prevents tan from becoming too dark on areas that tend to be naturally drier. Before your appointment, we’ll provide an oil-free lotion for you to use. Apply it liberally to your hands, elbows, knees, and feet, paying close attention to your nails and any other areas you find are particularly prone to dryness.
Automated Spray Tan Prep Tips
At The Tanning Shop Ireland, we do spray tanning a little differently, using fully automated spray tan booths designed for even, streak-free results in total privacy. Before your session, a trained consultant will explain how everything works and answer any questions you may have. Inside the booth, clear voice instructions guide you through each step – from optimal postures to when to turn, breathe, and close your eyes, spray tans with us are effortless!
Once you’re ready to go, we’ll leave you to get changed in private. Put on your complimentary hair net and sticky feet, enter the booth, and press the start button to begin your glow.
After Your Spray Tan - What to Avoid
To ensure your spray tan develops evenly, avoid any of the following for at least 8 hours after your appointment:
- Wearing tight clothing, including bras or tight underwear, which can cause lines or friction
- Showering or getting your body wet (hands can be washed after a couple of hours if needed)
- Exercising or activities that cause sweating, as this can disrupt colour development.
When to Shower After a Spray Tan
Our premium Norvell® spray tan solutions continue to develop over the first 24 hours. We recommend waiting at least 6-8 hours before showering in lukewarm water.
Don’t panic when you rinse off your tan! The colour that’s washing away is just the colour guide and won’t impact your newly developed tan. Once you’ve showered, gently pat your skin dry with a towel, then apply an oil-free moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and radiant.
How to Maintain Your Tan
Now you’re newly bronzed, it’s time to keep up appearances with essential spray tan aftercare. Here are some of our top tips to keep your skin glowing for longer:
Avoid exfoliating for at least 5 days after your appointment
Shower in lukewarm water and pat your skin dry rather than rubbing with a towel
Apply a nourishing, oil-free lotion daily to lock in moisture
Use a tan extender or gradual tanning lotion to maintain and top up your glow
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin healthy and hydrated from within
Spray Tanning Dos and Don’ts Checklist
Keep your spray tan prep and aftercare all in one place with our handy dos and don’ts checklist to easily refresh yourself before every appointment.
Before Your Spray Tan
Do:
- Exfoliate and moisturise 24 hours before your appointment (use an oil-free moisturiser)
- Shave or wax at least 24 hours in advance
- Arrive with clean, product-free skin (no makeup, deodorant, perfume, or lotion)
- Apply barrier cream to hands, feet, elbows, knees, and nails
- Wear loose, dark clothing
- Use the provided hair net and sticky feet during your session
Don’t:
- Shave, wax, or exfoliate on the day
- Apply lotion, makeup, perfume, or deodorant before your appointment
- Use oils or oil-based moisturisers
- Wear tight clothing, bras, or socks immediately after
- Touch or rub your skin before the drying cycle finishes
After Your Spray Tan
Do:
- Wait 6–8 hours before showering
- Rinse with lukewarm water only for your first shower
- Pat skin dry gently
- Moisturise daily with a lightweight, oil-free lotion
- Stay hydrated to help your tan fade evenly
Don’t:
- Exfoliate for 5–7 days
- Use oil-based products or harsh soaps
- Spend long periods in chlorinated pools or hot tubs
- Worry if your tan looks darker before rinsing — this is just the colour guide that will wash away
FAQs
How Do I Prep for a Spray Tan?
- Exfoliate and moisturise at least 24-48 hours before your appointment
- Shave or wax at least 24 hours in advance
- Arrive at your appointment with clean skin (no lotion, makeup, perfume, or deodorant)
- Apply barrier cream to dry areas
When Should I Shave Before a Spray Tan?
Any hair removal should be done at least 24 hours before your appointment. This allows for any redness or skin irritation to subside. Shaving or waxing too close to your appointment can leave your pores open, which can attract tan solution and result in a spotty effect, commonly known as ‘strawberry legs’.
Is it Okay to Shower Before a Spray Tan?
Yes, you should shower before a spray tan, using only clean water. Avoid soaps and body washes, as these can impact the development of your tan.
Do I Need to Use a Barrier Cream?
We strongly recommend applying barrier cream to dry areas before spray tanning. Dry skin – especially around the hands, elbows, feet, and knees – tends to absorb more tan solution, resulting in an uneven colour.
When Can I Shower or Exercise?
Wait at least 6-8 hours before showering or exercising to ensure your tan has fully developed.
Book a Spray Tan Near You in Dublin
Now you know how to prep skin for a spray tan, it’s time to book your glow session! Premium, automated spray tan appointments are available at The Tanning Shop Dundrum, Tallaght, and Greystones. Find your nearest store below and book your perfect glow today.
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