Airbrush Tan Pre & Post Care
Because a flawless glow starts before the tan
We want you to love your tan from the moment it’s applied to the moment it fades—smoothly, evenly, and beautifully. Follow these glow-up guidelines to prep like a pro and keep your sunless tan looking flawless for days.
Before Your Appointment (Pre-Tan Prep)
Here’s how to get your skin ready for a seamless tan:
-
Your skin should be a clean, product-free canvas with any old tan fully exfoliated off. Shaving the day before helps your pores close to avoid spotting.
-
These products can create barriers on the skin. We'll provide a water-based lotion at your appointment for dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.
-
This includes waxing (at least 24 hours before), nails, brows, and hair. Your tan should always be the last step in your beauty prep.
-
Think cozy joggers, oversized tees, or a flowy dress—no tight waistbands or bras, if possible.
-
You can work out before your appointment—but be sure to shower and remove all sweat before you come in.
After Your Appointment (Post-Tan Care)
Your custom airbrush tan takes time to develop—this is when the magic happens! Follow these tips to get the best result:
-
No showering, sweating, applying lotion, or booking a mani/pedi until after your first rinse.
-
Rapid Tan: Rinse after 2–5.5 hours depending on your desired depth.
Classic Tan: Rinse after 8–12 hours.
Your artist will give you the exact timing based on your formula and skin tone.
-
The bronzer you see immediately after your tan is cosmetic and will rinse off. Don’t try to blend, wipe, or fix—it’ll all even out beautifully after your shower.
-
Sitting cross-legged, bending your legs for too long, or skin rubbing together can cause patchiness or dark marks. Avoid tight positions while your tan is setting.
-
Wear long sleeves and loose, dark pants to bed to avoid transfer and smudging while you sleep.
Keeping Your Glow
Here’s how to extend the life of your tan and keep it looking smooth:
Moisturize daily—no exceptions!
Hydrated skin = a longer-lasting, more even fade. Tanning can dry the skin, so daily lotion is your best friend.Skip harsh exfoliation
Shaving is exfoliating and will fade your tan faster, especially on your legs.Expect hands, feet, and face to fade first
These areas get the most washing—touch-ups or tan extenders can help keep your glow balanced.Use our recommended products
We carry professional-grade tan extenders, moisturizers, and touch-up sprays in-studio to help you get the most out of your tan.Avoid SPFs and products with oil, grease, or alcohol
These can break down your tan faster and cause streaking or uneven fading. We carry recommended post-tan products that are 100% safe for your glow—ask us at your appointment!A Note on Skincare Products
Your regular skincare routine matters! To protect your face and body tan:
Avoid products with retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or other active exfoliants
Skip acne treatments, resurfacing serums, and toners with alcohol while your tan is fresh
Use gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturizers that won’t strip your glow
