WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR NEXT SPRAY TAN

Written By The Shy Effect, LLC

What's the difference between a Classic and Rapid Tan?

Classic spray tans stay on 8–12 hours—best scheduled at the end of the day so you can sleep in it. Rapid spray tans develop in 1–8 hours depending on your desired depth, so you rinse sooner. Both options reach the same beautiful, fully developed color after 24 hours.

Preparation Before Your Tan:

Schedule Appointments Early

  • Waxing, facials, dermaplaning, manicures/pedicures, hair, and massages should be done at least 48 hours before your tan.

Shaving & Exfoliation

  • Shave and gently exfoliate 24 hours before your appointment using a mild scrub.

Hair & Skin Prep

  • Wash hair at least 24 hours prior.

  • Keep skin hydrated leading up to your tan, but do not moisturize on the day of.

Avoid Certain Products

  • One week before: Avoid self-tanners, retinol, and oil-based or heavy moisturizers.

  • 24 hours before: Avoid oils, silicones, heavy butters, fragrances, alcohol-based products, sulfates, retinol/AHAs/BHAs, and parabens.

Wedding Tip

  • Brides: Schedule your tan 48 hours before your wedding for optimal, long-lasting results.

Recommended Tan Friendly Products: 

  • Koren Mitt

  • Native Soap

  • Aveeno Lotion 

  • Cerave Lotion 

The Day of Your Tan:

Clean Skin

  • Arrive with clean, dry skin, no lotions, deodorant, perfume, or makeup.

  • pH-balanced wipes are provided to remove any residue or deodorant.

Clothing

  • Wear loose, dark clothing to prevent transfer.

  • Avoid tight-fitting bras or sports bras, as friction can affect your tan.

  • Disposable garments, hair nets, hair ties, and nose plugs will be provided during your appointment for your comfort and convenience.

Protection & Prep

  • Barrier cream will be provided at your appointment to apply to dry areas, freshly done nails, or other areas you want to protect.

Spray Tan After Care:

Rinse Timing

  • Classic: Wait 8–12 hours before rinsing.

  • Rapid: Rinse as directed for your desired depth.

  • Use lukewarm water only, no soap, scrubbing or hot water.

Rinsing Technique

  • Gently wipe skin to remove residual bronzers until the water runs clear. This prevents streaking.

  • After the first rinse, you can moisturize and continue daily with a tan-friendly lotion.

Avoid Fading Triggers

  • Stay away from chlorine, hot tubs, and long hot showers; they act like chemical exfoliation and can cause fading or patchiness.

  • Avoid tight clothing, excessive sweating, saunas, or exercise for 6–8 hours after application.

Drying & Exfoliation

  • Pat skin dry gently after rinsing.

  • Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating until your tan fades completely.

Additional Tips

  • Bring an umbrella if it might rain.

  • After 8–12 hours from your first rinse, you can take a soapy shower to remove any residual bronzer and wash your hair.

  • Avoid applying adhesives (bandages, tape, etc.) on the skin until your tan has fully faded.

Tan Development:

  • Your tan depends of your solution & schedule, however it will take a full 24 hours to develop. 

Booking Your Next Tan:

For best results, book every 7–10 days or once your tan fades completely.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Shy directly via email: theshyeffectllc@gmail.com

The Shy Effect, LLC