How to Prep Skin Before a Spray Tan for an Even Finish
By Sun Tanning Store | Published: 2026-10-14
Category: How-to Guides
Follow this ordered spray tan prep routine to exfoliate, balance, and protect skin so your sunless tan develops evenly and lasts longer.
Quick answer
Start spray tan prep 24–48 hours ahead: exfoliate gently, shave if you normally do, then stop all oils, lotions, and deodorant on the day of your session. Just before tanning, apply a pre tan barrier balm to palms, nails, and dry heels so those areas don't grab extra DHA. Keep the first shower after your tan short and lukewarm to protect the finish.
Start exfoliation 24–48 hours before your appointment
The goal of spray tan prep is to remove dead cells without stripping the skin. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt on damp skin, working in circular motions over legs, arms, torso, and back. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. If you exfoliate too close to your session, the skin can be sensitized and may absorb solution unevenly. A buffer of one to two days lets your skin settle.
Shave and wax before your session, not after
Schedule shaving or waxing at least 24 hours before your spray tan. Freshly shaved or waxed skin has micro-abrasions that can sting when solution is applied, and the tan may develop darker in those spots. If you normally shave, do it the day before and follow with a light, fragrance-free moisturizer.
Stop lotions, oils, and deodorant on tan day
On the day of your appointment, skip body lotion, oils, perfume, and deodorant. These products create a barrier that stops the solution from developing evenly. If you must wear deodorant, wipe it off completely before your session. Also avoid facial makeup if you're tanning your face.
Protect palms, nails, and dry patches with a barrier balm
Right before your spray tan, apply a thin layer of barrier balm to your palms, fingernails, toenails, and any dry heels or elbows. These areas absorb DHA more readily and can turn orange or overly dark. A dedicated pre tan barrier balm is designed to sit on the skin without interfering with the rest of your tan.
Wear loose clothing and plan your aftercare
Bring or wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment. Tight straps and waistbands can rub the developing tan and leave lines. After your session, avoid showering for the time your technician recommends, usually 8–12 hours. When you do shower, use lukewarm water and a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser, then pat dry and moisturize daily to extend the life of your tan.
Step-by-step spray tan prep routine
- Exfoliate 24–48 hours before: Use a gentle scrub or mitt on damp skin, focusing on rough areas like knees, elbows, and ankles. Rinse and pat dry. Checkpoint: Skin should feel smooth, not tight or irritated. If it's red, wait another day.
- Shave or wax at least 24 hours ahead: If you remove hair, do it the day before your appointment. Avoid shaving the day of your tan. Mistake to avoid: Shaving right before your session can cause stinging and uneven absorption.
- Skip lotions, oils, and deodorant on tan day: Come to your appointment with clean, dry skin. No moisturizer, perfume, or deodorant. Checkpoint: If you applied anything, wash it off with a gentle cleanser and rinse well.
- Apply barrier balm to palms, nails, and dry patches: Use a thin layer of pre tan barrier balm on hands, feet, and any dry areas just before your spray tan. Mistake to avoid: Using too much balm can leave a greasy residue that interferes with the tan on nearby skin.
- Wear loose clothing and follow aftercare: Bring dark, loose clothes to wear home. Wait the recommended time before showering, then use lukewarm water and moisturize daily. Next step: Keep skin hydrated with a lightweight moisturizer to make your tan last longer.
Products that support spray tan prep
- Sunna Tan Basic Pre Tan Barrier Balm 16 oz.: Sunna Tan Basic Pre Tan Barrier Balm 16 oz. is a protective balm applied in a thin layer to palms, nails, and dry heels to prevent unwanted DHA absorption. Using a barrier balm on these areas before your session helps avoid orange palms and uneven dark patches, giving a more even spray tan finish.
- Hempz Mini Moisturizer Spray Original 1 oz: Hempz Mini Moisturizer Spray Original 1 oz is a lightweight, fast-absorbing mist that delivers instant hydration and leaves the signature Hempz Original scent. After your tan has developed and you've showered, a light moisturizer like this helps keep skin hydrated, which can extend the life of your sunless tan. Its mini size is also handy for travel or post-appointment touch-ups.
