If you’re new to spray tanning, you probably have many questions before your first session. What do I bring? What should I wear during the process? What about after? All of those are great questions. Dressing appropriately is one of the most important aspects of a successful spray tan. So let’s see what mistakes people usually make that you want to avoid at any cost.
Wearing tight clothing
Tight clothes are a spray tan’s biggest enemy. They can rub off the tan before it even has a chance to properly set into your skin, leading to patchy, uneven results that are far from the sun-kissed glow you were aiming for.
This is especially true in the first few hours post-tan when the solution is still fresh on your skin. Wearing tight clothing immediately after your session can cause friction and rub off the tan in certain areas, leaving you with a streaky mess.
Besides friction, tight clothes can also trap sweat, which is detrimental to your developing tan. Sweat can further disrupt the tanning process, contributing to unevenness.
So, what should you wear instead? Loose, baggy clothes are your best friends here. Think oversized T-shirts, loose-fitting dresses, or baggy sweatpants. Not only will they prevent any unwanted friction, but they also allow your skin to breathe, which is essential for the tan to develop evenly.
Choosing the wrong fabrics
Some fabrics can be a nightmare for your fresh tan, either because they’re prone to staining or because they can leave you with awkward tan lines.
Fabrics to avoid include silk, satin, or any other delicate materials that stain easily. These fabrics will soak up the bronzer from your skin, leaving you with stained clothes and a less-than-perfect tan.
On the other hand, fabrics like nylon or polyester can stick to the tanning solution, creating uneven tan lines that are anything but stylish.
So, what fabrics should you go for? Cotton is a great choice because it’s both breathable and less likely to stain. It’s also gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of any friction that could cause your tan to rub off.
Wearing expensive or favorite outfits
Imagine this scenario: You’ve just stepped out of the spray tan booth, glowing and feeling fabulous. You slip into your favorite designer outfit or that expensive piece you’ve been saving for a special occasion, only to find out later that it’s stained with tan! Heartbreaking, right? This is a common mistake that I’ve seen happen all too often.
The fact is, even though many spray tan solutions are designed to wash out most
fabrics, there’s still a risk of staining, especially in the first few hours after your session when the tan is still developing. It’s simply not worth risking your favorite or pricey clothing items.
Forgetting hair ties and headbands
It’s easy to forget about your hair when you’re focused on achieving that perfect tan, but you don’t want your hair getting in the way.
Your hairline, face, and neck are all areas that need to be tanned for a natural, even look. If your hair falls onto your face or neck during the tanning process, it can result in a patchy tan in these areas. Not to mention, you definitely don’t want to end up with bronzed strands!
Forget about jewelry
When it comes to spray tanning, less is definitely more, especially when it comes to jewelry. Those sparkly accessories might look fantastic, but they’re a no-go in the tanning booth.
If you forget to remove all jewelry, it can leave uneven patches or lines where the spray can’t reach your skin. Plus, certain metals could potentially react with the tanning solution, which is not something we want.
Wearing makeup or deodorant
Makeup and deodorant are part of our daily routines, but they can cause real problems when it comes to spray tanning. These products can act as a barrier, preventing the tanning solution from properly adhering to your skin.
To avoid this, make sure your skin is as clean and product-free as possible. This means no makeup, no deodorant, no creams or lotions, nothing. Just clean, exfoliated skin ready to soak up that beautiful bronzy glow.
Types of shoes to avoid
While it might seem like a minor detail, the shoes you wear to your tanning session can make a big difference.
Avoid wearing socks and closed-toe shoes immediately after your session, as they can rub against your freshly tanned ankles and feet, causing the color to smudge or streak.
Instead, opt for open-toe sandals or flip-flops – they’re easy to slip on and off and won’t rub against your tan. Just make sure they’re not too tight, as even the straps can leave marks on your skin.
How long after a spray tan can I wear tight clothes?
While it’s tempting to jump back into your skinny jeans or body-hugging dress right after your session, it’s best to hold off for a bit.
The tan will fully develop and set into your skin after about 24 hours. Additionally, it’s important to shower before wearing any tight clothing to ensure your tan is perfectly even and streak-free.
What to wear during the winter and colder days?
Spray tanning in the winter or on colder days can be a bit tricky, especially since you can’t exactly walk out of the salon in a sundress. The key here is to stick to loose, comfortable clothing that will keep you warm without rubbing off your tan.
Can I get a spray tan during rainy weather?
Rain and spray tans are not a good mix. If your skin gets wet before your tan has had a chance to fully develop, it can result in a patchy, streaky mess. If it’s raining on the day, you should move spray tanning to another day.
Final thoughts
Next time you book a spray tan, keep these pointers in mind. With a bit of preparation and the right attire, you’ll walk out of the salon with a flawless, golden glow, ready to show off your sun-kissed skin, come rain or shine!
