What to Wear During & After a Spray Tan

It’s that time…your spray tan appointment is on the horizon and you want it to be total success. But what do you wear when getting a spray tan? And what do you wear after a spray tan to protect your beloved bronze?

These are common questions, especially for self-tanning newcomers, but have no fear–we’re going to break it down so you know what to wear before, during, and after your next appointment, including some essential spray tan tips to ensure you get the results you were dreaming of.

What You Wear to a Spray Tan Matters

Of course, when you’re off to a spray tan appointment, comfort is a must. You want to feel at ease before and after your appointment; and if you’re not comfortable receiving a spray tan in the nude, you want to make sure you have appropriate, comfortable clothing during the session.

What to wear during a spray tan is up to you. Some people go in the nude and many wear just a thong. If you do choose to wear clothing during the appointment, you may get tan lines, so wear as little as possible to prevent that dreaded unevenness.

If you are comfortable in the nude, you still need to think about what to wear after your spray tan and how it may affect the tanning solution as it develops. Tight clothing, shoes, and even jewelry can cause the spray tan formula to rub off, and you certainly aren’t about removing a spray tan right after your appointment!

Additionally, it’s important to make sure your skin is prepped so your spray tan will last longer and look amazing. 

•  Exfoliate a few hours before your appointment using an exfoliating mitt

•  Shower several hours before appointment and rinse with cold water to close pores

•  Avoid applying any skin products such as moisturizer and makeup

•  Get other services, like waxing or massage, before your appointment

•  Book appointment a couple days before a big event

So, exactly what do you wear when getting a spray tan?

4 Essentials for What to Wear to a Spray Tan Session

Don’t go to your next appointment unprepared! Check out these 4 must-read tips to make sure you wear the right clothing to your spray tan session:

1. Choose your shoes

Tight, close-toed shoes are a no-no when it comes to spray tans. The pressure and rubbing on your feet can cause streaks and remove freshly applied solution. To avoid the smudge, choose loose, open-toed sandals like flip flops or slip-ons without a heel. Also, don’t wear socks or tights on a freshly tanned foot!

2. No jewelry needed

As gorgeous as your jewels may be, you want to leave them safe at home when you go to your spray tan appointment. Make sure to remove rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, cuffs, or any other type of jewelry that could cause a line or rub the solution off.

3. Keep it loose

When deciding what to wear to a spray tan session, always choose loose clothing that won’t rub on your skin. Flowy dresses and skirts, or loose-fitting jumpsuits without elastic are ideal. If you’re comfortable, avoid wearing a bra or underwear, which tends to cling to skin and may cause discoloration.

If you carry a purse, this may be the perfect time to clean it out and only pack essential items that are lightweight–or leave your purse at home altogether.

4. Wear dark clothing

No matter what you wear to a spray tan session, make sure it’s dark, preferably black. Fresh spray tan solution has a tendency to rub off and you don’t want wear anything light colored that could get stained. If you wear underwear, choose a thong that is a dark color or which you don’t mind throwing away if it gets stained. Some salons may sell disposable thongs if you don’t have a pair to spare.

Don’t Forget Your Aftercare

Now that you know what to wear when getting a spray tan (and what not to wear), make sure your spray tan care continues after your appointment. Here are a few quick tips for taking care of your skin post-bronzing:

1. Stay away from moisture

As much as you may want to shower or workout, hold off for at least a few hours while the spray tan formula soaks into your skin. Avoid sweating, bathing, swimming, saunas, or any activity that is moisture producing.

2. Avoid exfoliation

Don’t rub off that brand-new spray tan until you’re ready for a new one. Save exfoliating for the day of your next appointment.

3. Use oil-free moisturizer

After the spray tan is set, moisturize daily with an oil-free, fragrance-free moisturizer.

4. Minimize skin-to-skin contact

If you cross your legs or arms a lot, try to limit these positions to prevent spray tan from smudging.

5. Avoid harsh chemicals

Chemicals can strip the spray tan so avoid chemicals like chlorine and acids, or any skincare products designed to strip or exfoliate the skin.

Conclusion

What to wear when getting a spray tan is just one part of a glowing spray tan experience and Be Bronze is here to help you. Whether you’re a tanning newbie or a seasoned pro, we offer products (like our spray tanning mousse!), resources, amazing services, and expert advice on all things spray tan. If you’re ready to experience the Be Bronze difference, contact us to book your next spray tan appointment.