By Jeff 
So, you’re getting a spray tan? Love that for you. Honestly, it’s the quickest way to look like you’ve just come back from a tropical vacation without actually having to deal with sunburns or spending hours outside sweating. But here’s the catch—spray tanning near me can be a little high-maintenance if you’re not careful. A few slip-ups before or after your appointment, and your “perfect glow” can turn into streaks, blotches, or a tan that fades in, like, two days. Not what we want.
Let’s talk about the most common mistakes people make with spray tans—and how to dodge them like a pro.
Skipping Exfoliation
I know, I know—it feels like extra work. But if you don’t exfoliate, your tan is basically sticking to old skin that’s about to fall off anyway. Translation: hello, patchy elbows and flaky shins.
Do this instead: The day before your appointment, grab a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt. Focus on the rough spots (knees, elbows, ankles). Just don’t go crazy with harsh scrubs the day of your tan—irritated skin won’t absorb the color evenly.
Shaving or Waxing at the Wrong Time
Ever notice those little dark dots after a shave? That happens when you shave right before a tan. And waxing after your tan? Yeah, you’ll just rip it right off.
Do this instead: Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your appointment. It gives your pores time to close so the tanning solution doesn’t settle into them.
Wearing the Wrong Clothes
Tight leggings, sports bras, or anything with straps that rub = streak city. And don’t even think about wearing white. Unless you like bronzer stains that never come out.
Do this instead: Loose, dark clothes are your BFF. An oversized tee or flowy dress and some flip-flops are the move.
- Lotions, Oils, Perfumes—Just Don’t
It’s tempting to slather on lotion before your appointment, but here’s the problem: anything on your skin creates a barrier. Your tan can’t stick properly, and you’ll end up with uneven patches.
Do this instead: Show up with clean, bare skin. No deodorant, no perfume, no lotion. Fresh and natural.
Showering Too Soon
The waiting game is the hardest part. But if you shower too soon, you’ll wash your tan right down the drain. Same goes for sweating.
Do this instead: Follow whatever timeline your tanning tech gives you. Usually it’s 8–12 hours, unless it’s a rapid tan (those can be rinsed sooner). And if you’re somewhere humid, stay cool and dry until your rinse.
Thinking a Spray Tan = Sunscreen
This is such a big one. A spray tan is color, not protection. If you skip SPF because you think your glow has you covered, you’ll end up with a burn. And burns on top of a tan? Nope.
Do this instead: Always, always, always wear sunscreen. Stick with oil-free formulas so they don’t mess with your tan.
Skipping Moisturizer After Your Tan
Here’s the deal: dry skin makes your tan fade faster. Sometimes in patchy little chunks. That “alligator skin” look? Yeah, no thanks.
Do this instead: Once you’ve rinsed, moisturize every single day with a gentle lotion. Avoid heavy oils and anything alcohol-based. Keep your skin happy, your glow happy.
Scrubbing Too Soon
Yes, exfoliation is important—but only before the tan. If you start scrubbing a day or two after, you’re literally erasing your glow.
Do this instead: Wait until your tan naturally starts fading (usually after about a week) before gently exfoliating to prep for your next one.
Too Much Pool or Beach Time
Chlorine and saltwater? They’re like kryptonite to spray tans. Spend hours swimming, and you’ll see your glow disappear way faster.
Do this instead: Rinse off after swimming, moisturize right away, and try not to turn your beach day into a marathon swim session.
Ignoring Your Pro’s Advice
Every salon with tanning booth near me FL has slightly different formulas and techniques. Your tanning artist has literally seen it all, so if they tell you something, listen.
Do this instead: Ask questions! They’ll give you the best advice for your skin type and the specific tan you’re getting.FAQs
How do I prep before a spray tan?
Exfoliate the day before, shave or wax 24 hours prior, and come in with clean, bare skin. Wear loose, dark clothes.
Can I shower the same day?
Not unless your tech says it’s okay. Standard tans usually need 8–12 hours to set. Rapid tans can be rinsed sooner.
What should I avoid after?
Sweating, swimming, tight clothes, and oil-based products right after your session.
How long does a spray tan last?
On average, 7–10 days. Daily moisturizing helps stretch it out.
When should I book a tan for an event?
One to two days before is ideal. That way the color has time to fully develop but won’t have started fading yet.
Final Thoughts
Spray tans are supposed to make you feel good—glowy, confident, like you’ve just come back from a mini-vacation. Most of the “fails” people have aren’t because spray tans don’t work—it’s because of little mistakes that add up. Prep right, follow the aftercare, and you’ll be golden (literally).
And hey—if you’re not sure about something? Just ask your spray tan artist. They want your tan to look amazing. Trust me, once you nail the routine, spray tans will feel like second nature.