We all love that just sprayed glow, but a few wrong moves can send that bronze beauty packing way too soon. The truth is, a great spray tan doesn’t end with the application. What happens before and after the session is what determines whether your tan fades gracefully… or flakes off faster than you can say “DHA.”
This guide is packed with insider tips to help your clients, and your business, achieve longer lasting, flawless tans.
1. It All Starts with Proper Skin Prep
A flawless tan needs a smooth, clean canvas.
Why it matters:
Spray tan solution adheres to the outer layer of skin. If that layer is uneven or full of dry patches, your tan will fade in splotches. Over exfoliating or skipping prep altogether are two of the biggest causes of early fade.
Glow saving prep tips:
- Exfoliate thoroughly 24 hours before the appointment using an exfoliating mitt or scrub free from oils or waxes.
- Focus on trouble areas: elbows, knees, ankles, and underarms.
- Shave or wax before exfoliating to avoid residue or irritation.
- Avoid applying lotion, deodorant, makeup, or perfume the day of your tan.
Pro Tip: Include a branded prep checklist in your appointment confirmations to set your clients up for success. Check out out spray tan prep guide on HVLPSunless.com to help you get started.
2. Hydration = Longevity
Dry skin drinks up moisture, and your tan right along with it.
Why it matters:
Dehydrated skin causes DHA (the tanning agent) to flake off faster. Keeping skin well-moisturized maintains the skin barrier, which locks in the tan and helps it fade evenly.
Hydration habits that help:
- Begin moisturizing daily starting 12–24 hours after your tan develops.
- Choose oil free, fragrance free lotions designed for spray tan compatibility.
- Drink lots of water. Internal hydration reflects in your skin’s condition too.
Avoid thick butters or lotions with petroleum, mineral oil, or alcohol, which can break down the tan.
3. Aftercare Is the Glow’s Best Friend
Your tan is most vulnerable during the first 24 to 48 hours post application.
What to do (and not do):
- Wait at least 8–12 hours before your first rinse (follow your artist’s specific timing).
- First rinse should be quick with lukewarm water only ( no soap, no scrubbing)
- Pat skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing.
- Avoid sweating, swimming, hot yoga, or sauna use for the first 24 hours.
Want to impress your clients? Offer a curated aftercare product kit with your favorite tan safe cleanser and lotion.
4. Clothing & Friction: Silent Glow Killers
What you wear right after a tan can impact how well it sets.
Post tan wardrobe rules:
- Loose, dark cotton clothes are ideal, think flowy dresses, oversized tees, and no bra if possible.
- Avoid jeans, tight leggings, sports bras, or anything that might rub against the skin.
- Use dark sheets or sleep on a towel if your solution has a bronzer.
Friction is a major fade culprit. This includes tight clothes, constant rubbing, even heavy workouts that cause skin to skin contact.
5. Hidden Product Hazards That Ruin Tans
Your glow might be under attack by the products in your shower.
Ingredients that strip tans:
- Sulfates (found in foaming cleansers and shampoos)
- Alcohol (in toners, sprays, or acne products)
- Retinoids, AHAs, BHAs (exfoliating acids)
- Acne and anti aging treatments
Swap for:
- pH balanced, sulfate free body wash
- Moisturizers formulated for spray tan care
- Gradual tanning lotions to refresh color after Day 3 and 4
Bonus Tip: Recommend clients avoid exfoliating their face or using active skincare until they’re ready to remove the tan.
6. Extend the Glow with the Right Products
Spray tans naturally fade as the skin exfoliates, but a great tan extender can slow that process and refresh fading color.
How to use tan extenders:
- Start using one 3 to 4 days post tan to subtly deepen and refresh.
- Choose a lotion with low level DHA + hydration for best results.
- Encourage consistent application, especially on high fade zones like hands, feet, and chest.
Pro artists: Retailing a high quality extender (especially one you use in house) is a simple, profitable upsell.
Final Words for Spray Tan Artists
Want clients to rave about how long their tan lasted? Don’t just spray and send. Educate, equip, and empower them.
Here’s how:
- Send digital or printed prep & aftercare guides
- Offer product bundles or glow kits
- Follow up post tan with glow tips or check-ins
- Make aftercare part of your client experience, not an afterthought
Remember: a flawless tan starts with your technique and continues with their routine.
Let APOLLO Sunless Help You Deliver Flawless, Long Lasting Results
Our HVLP systems give you complete control over every spray, helping you create even, streak-free tans that last longer, every time.
Want to learn more? Contact us or explore our pro systems and tools for passionate tanning pros like you.
