The Glow Co. ATX
Request
Pre / Post Tan Care

Your tan is mostly
decided before we meet.

Spray tanning itself is pretty simple: a fine mist of sunless solution that gives you a natural-looking glow. But here’s the thing: how you prep beforehand and care for your skin after makes or breaks the whole tan.

Follow these, and expect:
  • ✔Even color development
  • ✔Maximum longevity (5–10 days typical)
  • ✔A smooth, streak-free finish
  • ✔Fading without blotchiness

Skipping or altering these steps can lead to patchiness, uneven fading, or a shorter-lasting tan. Your skin (and your tan) will thank you.

Pre-tan

Before your appointment

1–2 days before your appointment

  • Exfoliate
    Gently exfoliate your entire body, focusing on dry areas (elbows, knees, ankles). Avoid oil-based scrubs.
  • Hair removal
    Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your session to allow pores time to close.
  • Moisturize
    Hydrate your skin with a light, oil-free lotion (avoid on the day of your tan).

Day of your spray tan

  • Shower
    Take a quick shower at least 3–4 hours before your appointment, using a gentle, non-moisturizing soap.
  • No products
    Come with clean, dry skin. Do not apply lotion, makeup, deodorant, perfume, or oils.
  • Loose clothing
    Dark, loose-fitting clothes and sandals are best to avoid rubbing the tan while it sets.
  • Remove jewelry
    Take off necklaces, rings, and bracelets before your appointment.
Post-tan

After your appointment

Before your first rinse

  • Don't get wet
    Do not shower, sweat, swim, or get wet.
  • Hands off
    Avoid touching or rubbing your skin.
  • Loose, dark clothing
    Wear loose, dark clothing to avoid smudging or transferring the tan.
  • Stay cool
    Excessive heat or sweating will affect development.

Your first rinse (this will be determined during your appointment)

  • Warm water only
    Rinse with warm (not hot) water only. No soap, scrubs, or shampoo.
  • Rinse until water runs clear
    Gently use your hands to remove excess bronzer. The water may look brown at first. Keep rinsing until it runs clear.
  • Pat, don't rub
    Pat skin dry with a towel. Do not rub.
  • Moisturize after
    Once your skin is dry, apply a light, oil-free moisturizer to lock in hydration and keep your glow even as it develops.

Post-shower & daily care

  • Wait 24 hours
    Before using soaps, lotions, or deodorants.
  • Moisturize twice daily
    Apply a gentle, oil-free moisturizer twice a day to keep skin hydrated.
  • Lotion sunscreen, not spray
    When you need sun protection, reach for a lotion-based sunscreen. Spray sunscreens use alcohol-based propellants that can strip or streak your tan.
  • Skip the oils
    Avoid oil-based products, bar soaps, and exfoliants. They fade your tan faster.
  • Hydrate
    Drink plenty of water. Hydrated skin holds your tan longer.

Things to avoid

  • Chlorinated pools & hot tubs
    They strip the tan fast.
  • Long, hot showers & baths
    Short and warm is better than long and hot.
  • Aggressive scrubbing, shaving, or waxing
    Exfoliation of any kind speeds fade.
  • Tight clothing
    Especially in the first 24 hours. Friction creates patches. Watch out for socks!