Whether you want to get a head start on your summer tan, get a glowing complexion in time for a significant event, or preserve your tan year-round, a spray tan can quickly become your best friend.

How Can I Prepare for a Session?

Before your session, it’s important to exfoliate your body to slough off dead skin cells and ensure that your tan will last longer. The easiest place to do this is in the shower, but make sure the water’s not too hot; if you go to a tanning session with your pores open from the steam, your spray tan may settle unevenly. You’ll also want to wax or shave at least 24 hours before your tanning session and wait about 2 days before waxing or shaving after your session to allow the color to settle.

Finally, moisturizing is a key component to any skin-based treatment. If your skin is dry and flaky during your tanning session, the color will settle unevenly and may fade more quickly as your skin cells regenerate. You should use a lotion moisturizer in the days leading up to your session to ensure that your skin is smooth, hydrated, and healthy, which will give you the best results.

How Long Does It Last?

Because your skin is constantly creating new skin cells on the epidermis level, any skin treatment will fade over time. Spray tans generally last for 7-10 days, depending on the coverage you requested; if you wanted a lighter color, your tan could fade more quickly. By taking care of your skin before and after your session, you can help extend the life of your tan.