Vacations are all about relaxing, exploring, and of course, capturing all those perfect moments! And there's no better way to get camera-ready than with a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow from a spray tan. Spray tans provide a safe, UV-free way to get that radiant vacation look without the risks of sun exposure. However, maintaining a flawless tan while you’re away requires a bit of pre-planning and care. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your tan looks its best before, during, and after your vacation.
1. Exfoliate and Moisturize – Prepare Your Canvas!
The foundation of a great tan starts with skin preparation. One of the most important things you can do is to exfoliate your entire body 24 hours before your spray tan appointment. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, which can create a rough or uneven surface that may prevent the spray tan from adhering properly. For best results, focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Use an oil-free exfoliator, as oils can leave a residue that affects how the tan absorbs.
After exfoliating, it’s crucial to keep your skin moisturized in the days leading up to your tan. Hydrated skin holds a tan longer, helping it look more natural and even. Stick to a light, oil-free moisturizer; however, skip moisturizing on the day of your appointment. Any oils or lotions can create a barrier on the skin, causing streaks or patches in your tan.
Pro Tip: Don’t shave on the day of your appointment. Shaving is another form of exfoliation and can create tiny nicks that the tan can settle into, resulting in a less even application. Shave the day before instead for the smoothest results.
2. Choose the Right Shade for Your Desired Look
One of the great things about spray tanning is the customization options available. Talk with your technician about your vacation plans and desired look to find a shade that complements your skin tone and matches your vibe. For a tropical vacation where you'll be in the sun, a medium or dark shade can give you that beach-ready look. If you’re headed somewhere with more modest sunlight exposure or prefer a subtle, “glow-from-within” look, a lighter shade might be best.
Experienced tanning technicians can also blend shades or use contouring techniques to enhance certain areas, giving you a naturally defined look. Whether you want a hint of color or a deep tan, picking the right shade will make all the difference in achieving your desired look.
Pro Tip: If it’s your first time getting a spray tan, ask for a patch test or start with a lighter shade. It’s easier to build color in future sessions than to go too dark right off the bat.
3. Time Your Tan Appointment Strategically
Timing is everything when it comes to a spray tan. Ideally, schedule your appointment one to two days before you leave for your trip. This gives the color time to fully develop, and any bronzer can be washed off, leaving you with the tan’s true shade. It also ensures your tan has set properly, reducing the risk of transfer to clothing or hotel sheets.
A fresh tan takes about 8 to 12 hours to develop fully, but during this period, you’ll need to avoid water, sweating, and tight clothing. If possible, plan your tan appointment for the afternoon or evening so that you can sleep while it sets, reducing your chances of accidental water exposure.
Pro Tip: Wear dark, loose-fitting clothing and flip-flops to your appointment to prevent friction or pressure marks on your skin. This will help your tan develop evenly and look flawless from the get-go.
4. Pack Tan-Extending Products
Vacations often mean extra time in the sun, water, or pool, all of which can cause a spray tan to fade more quickly. To make your tan last as long as possible, pack travel-friendly tan-extending products like a hydrating, tan-extending lotion or gradual self-tanner. These products are designed to keep your tan looking fresh and vibrant by rehydrating the skin and adding subtle, buildable color.
If you plan to spend a lot of time in water, remember that chlorine and salt water can strip your tan. Avoid prolonged swimming, and if you do take a dip, rinse off with fresh water afterward and apply a tan-extending lotion once you’re dry. Moisturizing every day while you’re away will help prevent your tan from fading unevenly and looking patchy.
Pro Tip: Pack a small, refillable bottle of moisturizer for on-the-go hydration. It’s a vacation essential, especially if you’re in a hot, dry climate.
5. Don’t Forget Sunscreen – A Spray Tan Isn’t Sun Protection!
A spray tan looks amazing, but it won’t protect you from UV rays. It’s essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Without sunscreen, you risk sunburn, which not only damages your skin but also causes your spray tan to fade unevenly and peel.
Choose a sunscreen that’s water-resistant, lightweight, and won’t leave a white cast on your skin. Be sure to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Using sunscreen will not only protect your health but also help maintain the evenness of your tan.
Pro Tip: Avoid spray sunscreens, as they often contain alcohol, which can dry out your skin and shorten the life of your tan. Opt for a lotion-based sunscreen for better coverage and hydration.
Bonus Tips: What to Do During and After Your Trip
Beyond the main tips, there are a few extra things you can do to extend your tan’s lifespan and keep your skin looking flawless:
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Avoid Exfoliating Products – Stay away from body scrubs, loofahs, and rough towels, as these can strip your tan faster. Gently pat yourself dry after showers rather than rubbing.
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Stay Hydrated Inside and Out – Drinking water is just as important for your skin as applying lotion. Hydrated skin holds onto a tan better, giving it that fresh, just-applied glow even days after your appointment.
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Embrace Loose Clothing – Tight clothes can cause friction, which may lead to uneven fading. Opt for loose, airy fabrics that won’t rub against your skin, especially if you’ll be out and about all day.
Wrapping Up
Getting a spray tan before your vacation is one of the easiest ways to look radiant and photo-ready from day one. By following these tips, you’ll be able to extend the life of your tan and keep it looking as good as it did the day you got it. Plus, you can spend less time worrying about sun exposure and more time enjoying your vacation.
Ready to glow for your next getaway? Hush Hush Tan has you covered! Book your appointment today, and get set to travel with confidence and that perfect, sun-kissed glow. Whether it’s lounging on the beach or exploring a new city, you’ll look and feel your best every step of the way.
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