achieving a glow that lasts.
Your glow is here, and it’s gorgeous. But how long it’ll last? That’s up to you! A spray tan is a partnership - I’ll work my magic in the studio, but you’ve gotta do a little aftercare at home to get that bronze to stay awhile.
Wait to rinse
Your first rinse is a BIG deal. Follow the timeline I give you at your appointment. Keep in mind my rinsing rule of thumb - 1hr for a subtle glow, 2-3hr for a sweet medium, and 4+hr for a deep, dark tan. Your color will always be custom mixed to your undertones, but the depth of development is determined by your rinse time. The color you leave the studio is NOT an accurate representation of your end result. You’re marinating.
When doing your initial rinse, shower in luke-warm water and rinse thoroughly. Your water will be dark. Rinse until it is clear and all bronzed appears to be washed away. Get out, pat dry, and, WAIT 8-12hr for soap and lotion.
Skip the hot tub fantasy
For the duration of your tan, avoid long hot baths, chlorine pools, and steamy showers. Are they the end of the world? No. Will they wipe away your color instantly? Also no. But, if we’re looking for maximal longevity - skip it.
If it is absolutely necessary (let’s be real, you’re tanning for vacation etc) be diligent about your moisturizing and ALWAYS pat dry.
Moisturize like a pro
The key to a lasting tan? Your skin’s BFF? Lotion - every. single. day. Bonus if it’s morning and evening, mineral oil and paraben free. Stick with something light, scentless, and hydrating.
A few of my personal favorites include Hempz original, CereVe, Aveeno, and our in-studio gradual tanning lotion and body butter.
Hands off
No excessive scrubbing, shaving daily, or picking at your skin. Treat yourself like a delicate masterpiece (because you are).
Should you need to shave - use a sharp razor and shaving cream. One pass over each area to avoid stripping off that outermost layer of skin (and removing your tan!)
Invest in a tan extender
Ask me about the tan extenders I carry in the studio! They add hydration and a little color boost to keep your tan looking fresh longer.
If you baby your spray tan, it’ll love you right back. Most clients get 7-10 days of flawless color with proper aftercare. And trust me - you’ll be booking your next one before this one fades.