You have something really special coming up. It could be a wedding, prom, graduation, or reunion. Perhaps you have a date this weekend and you really want to wow someone. You don’t have time to lie in the sun or tanning bed to achieve the natural, healthy glowing skin you’d like. The next best thing is a sunless spray tan. You’re right so far. The next question is, when should you get the spray tan?

Many people think that you should get a spray tan right before a big event. While it is understandable to think this way, it is actually not quite true. If you get an airbrush tan directly before an event, you won’t have time to shower off the “guide color.” You see, there is an instant bronzer that usually accompanies a sunless tanning session. This color isn’t the actual faux tan and has the tendency to look a little dirty or muddy against the skin. Instead of the gorgeous golden-brown hue you’re looking for, it has a tendency to be simply brown or orange. You don’t want to attend a big event wearing guide color!

There’s more than just the color to consider. To put it plainly, after a spray tan you really need to shower! If you don’t, it’s likely that those around you will still be able to smell the DHA. This is the ingredient that reacts with amino acids on your skin that darkens your color. DHA is great for looking your best, but not so great for smelling your best.

Plus, you need to be patient. Your tan also likely hasn’t finished developing, so you haven’t reached peak bronze if you go straight away to your big event.

All of this leads to one big question… how long before the event should you get your spray tan? Obviously you aren’t recommended to do it right before, so when should you go? Spray tans typically last between seven to nine days. For this reason, it is best to get a spray tan two or three days beforehand. This allows time for your tan to fully develop and gives you time to have one or two rinse-offs in between the tanning and the event you want to look your best at. If you get a spray tan four or more days before your event, your tan will already have started to fade.

Yes, you should shower! Use lukewarm water and don’t scrub with a loofah in order to avoid losing any color. When you get out of the shower, simply pat dry with a towel and apply a high-quality moisturizer.

For more information on sunless tanning options or which products will help you achieve your best tan, reach out and contact us. We’re happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.