How far before an event should you get a spray tan?
Spray tanning has become a go-to option for a quick, safe, and customizable glow, offering a golden tan without the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure. Whether it’s a wedding, a vacation, or just a confidence boost, spray tans fit seamlessly into many occasions and lifestyles. But to make the most of your spray tan, timing is key. This guide will walk you through the best timing for spray tans based on the type of event, vacation, or even just maintaining a glow all year round.
1. Getting a Spray Tan Before a Wedding
Your wedding day is one of the most photographed, anticipated, and cherished days of your life. Naturally, you want to look and feel your absolute best. A sun-kissed glow can add a little extra radiance, helping you feel confident and picture-perfect on the big day.
For a wedding, it’s recommended to schedule your spray tan two days before the event. This timing allows the color to develop fully and gives you a little buffer in case any minor adjustments are needed.
Why Two Days Before?
Perfect Color Development: The initial tan will develop over 24 hours, and within two days, you’ll have the ideal tone with any excess bronzer washed away. This way, you’ll look natural and vibrant without any risk of being too dark or too light.
Avoid Stains: Getting the tan a couple of days in advance helps prevent any risk of staining your wedding dress, especially if you have chosen a lighter shade.
Time for Touch-Ups: By getting the spray tan two days in advance, you’ll have time to correct any small areas if needed, ensuring a flawless look. Though this is rarely needed with a skilled spray tan artist, it is always good to leave a little time just in case.
The wedding trial spray tan
It is so important for the bride to do a trial spray tan before the big day. This is because a spray tan reacts with the outer most layer of your skin, so each spray tan will look different on everyone, and even different products will produce a different look. Also, unlike makeup, a spray tan takes 12 - 24 hours to fully develop, meaning you cannot judge the final look by the bronzer, it must be washed off and allowed to fully develop before you can determine whether you like the depth of the color. Your spray tan artist will make note of the color used and the time you left it on before showering so that you can make any adjustments you want to look perfect on your big day.
To read more about wedding spray tans, check out our bridal spray tan page.
2. Timing Your Tan Before an Event
Whether it’s a reunion, a big work event, or a night out, a spray tan can help you look your best and boost your confidence. When it comes to events, 1-2 days before is the ideal timeframe for a spray tan.
Benefits of Tanning 1-2 Days Before an Event
Freshest Glow: You’ll get the most vibrant, fresh color within 1-2 days. This ensures your tan looks natural and at its peak for the event.
No Residual Solution: By giving your tan a day or two to settle, you’ll eliminate any residual bronzer or streaks, which can sometimes happen right after tanning.
Quick Fixes Are Possible: If you notice any uneven areas or need a minor touch-up, you’ll have time to address it with a quick call to your spray tan artist.
3. Spray Tanning Before a Vacation
Vacations are all about relaxation, rejuvenation, and—if you’re planning for it—a little glow-up. If you’re getting a spray tan for a trip, aim to do it as close to your departure as possible. The day before you leave is usually best, ensuring your tan lasts as long as possible during the trip.
Vacation Considerations for Your Spray Tan
When it comes to vacations, not all destinations or activities are created equal, so here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your tan:
Water Exposure: If you’re going to be swimming in pools or the ocean, know that chlorine and saltwater can cause your tan to fade more quickly or unevenly. A spray tan’s lifespan can decrease with excessive water exposure, so the closer to your departure date, the better.
Sweating: If you’re heading to a tropical location or plan to be active, sweating can also lead to faster fading. Talk to your spray tan artist about using a gradual tanning lotion during your trip to maintain your tan.
Exfoliation and Moisturization: Before getting your spray tan, exfoliate well and avoid moisturizers or oils right before the session, as these can create a barrier. Post-tan, keep your skin hydrated with a tan-friendly moisturizer to avoid patchiness. Read more about our spray tan preparation and aftercare.
Gradual Tanners and Products: Many spray tan artists recommend packing a gradual tanning lotion or touch-up product. This can help you extend your tan’s life and fill in any areas that may fade faster, allowing you to keep that fresh-off-the-plane glow throughout your vacation.
4. For Everyday Confidence: The “Whenever” Tan
Sometimes, you don’t need a special occasion to treat yourself to a spray tan. If you love the look and feel of having a tan, why not make it a regular part of your beauty routine? With professional guidance, you can safely maintain a spray tan as frequently as once a week!
Why Tan Regularly?
Boost in Confidence: A tan often enhances confidence, giving you a little glow-up in your everyday life.
Consistent Glow: If you’re a regular tanner, maintaining your glow weekly ensures you’re never without that sun-kissed look. Many people find a regular tan can brighten their appearance and lift their mood.
Customizable Color: A weekly tan doesn’t have to mean going as dark as possible each time. With your spray tan artist, you can discuss shades and tones that suit your look and lifestyle, even if that’s a natural, subtle glow.
Tips for Maintaining Your Spray Tan
Getting a spray tan is one part of the process; maintaining it is where you can ensure you enjoy that glow for as long as possible. Here are some tried-and-true tips to keep your tan looking fabulous:
Pre-Tan Prep: Proper exfoliation the day before your appointment is crucial. This helps remove dead skin cells, allowing for a more even and long-lasting tan.
Avoid Water and Sweat for 8-12 Hours: For best results, keep water and sweat away from your tan for the first 8-12 hours. This allows the solution to develop fully on your skin.
Moisturize Daily: Hydrated skin holds onto a tan longer. Opt for a moisturizer that is tan-friendly, free from ingredients that may strip the color such as mineral oil and alcohols.
Use a Gradual Tanner for Touch-Ups: Many spray tan artists recommend a gradual tanner, which you can apply every few days to maintain your tan. These products provide an additional layer of color to prevent fading, especially helpful during vacations or between weekly tans.
Pat, Don’t Rub, Your Skin Dry: After showering or swimming, gently pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing it. This will help preserve the tan and minimize any uneven fading.
Avoid Exfoliating and Harsh Soaps: Certain exfoliants or soaps with strong ingredients (like AHA or glycolic acid) can strip your tan faster. Stick to gentle cleansers, and avoid scrubbing your skin.
Finding Your Ideal Spray Tan Routine
At aussie glows, we believe spray tans should be as customizable as possible, adapting to your unique skin tone, event, and even climate conditions. Whether you're looking for a one-time boost or want to incorporate a tan into your regular beauty routine, our artists can help you determine the right schedule and product recommendations for lasting results.
In short, there’s no right or wrong time to get a spray tan. Whenever you want to feel fabulous and confident, a spray tan can offer that extra glow. By planning ahead, considering your event or destination, and working with your spray tan artist, you’ll be able to achieve and maintain that perfect, sun-kissed look for any occasion!
