Getting a spray tan is one of the best ways to achieve that sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. But if you’re new to the world of spray tanning, you might wonder, “What should I wear?” Believe it or not, what you wear before, during, and after your spray tan can significantly impact the outcome of your tan. To help you achieve a flawless glow, we’ve put together this guide on what to wear and the top mistakes to avoid when getting a spray tan.
Before Your Spray Tan: The Right Prep
Preparation is key to ensuring that your spray tan turns out perfectly. What you wear to your appointment is just as important as the prep you do at home.
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Loose, Dark Clothing: On the day of your appointment, choose loose, dark clothing. Tight clothes can rub against your skin and cause streaks or uneven tanning. Dark colors are recommended because spray tan solutions can sometimes stain lighter fabrics. Avoid anything that clings to your skin, such as leggings, skinny jeans, or tight tops. Opt for a loose dress, baggy sweatpants, or an oversized t-shirt.
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Flip-Flops or Open-Toe Sandals: Closed shoes like sneakers or boots can cause your tan to rub off on your feet, resulting in uneven color. Flip-flops or open-toe sandals allow your feet to breathe and prevent any friction against the freshly applied tan.
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No Jewelry or Accessories: Remove all jewelry, watches, and accessories before your appointment. These can leave marks on your skin, leading to uneven tanning. Additionally, metallic jewelry can react with the tanning solution, so it’s best to leave these items at home.
During Your Spray Tan: What to Wear (or Not Wear)
When it comes to what to wear during your spray tan, the choice is entirely up to you. However, there are some recommendations to keep in mind.
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Disposable Undergarments: Many salons, including Hush Hush Tan, offer disposable undergarments that you can wear during your spray tan. These are a great option if you prefer to cover up but don’t want to risk staining your own clothing. Disposable undergarments also allow for even coverage on most of your skin.
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Old Swimwear or Lingerie: If you’re more comfortable wearing something of your own, consider using an old swimsuit or lingerie that you don’t mind getting stained. Keep in mind that the tanning solution can permanently stain fabrics, so choose something you’re willing to part with if needed.
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Go Bare: If you’re aiming for the most even tan possible, going completely nude is an option. This ensures that there are no tan lines or missed spots. Many clients choose this option for a seamless, all-over tan.
After Your Spray Tan: Maintaining Your Glow
Once your spray tan is complete, the way you dress can either help maintain your glow or cause it to fade prematurely.
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Avoid Tight Clothing for 24 Hours: After your spray tan, avoid tight clothing for at least 24 hours. Tight bras, waistbands, and even socks can rub against your skin and cause the tan to wear off unevenly. Stick with the loose, dark clothing you wore to your appointment.
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Skip the Bra (If Possible): If you can, avoid wearing a bra immediately after your spray tan. The straps and bands can create pressure points that lead to streaks or lines. If you must wear one, choose a strapless or bandeau style that’s loose and non-restrictive.
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Wait to Shower: Wait at least 8-10 hours before showering to give the tan time to set. During this time, it’s best to avoid activities that cause excessive sweating, as this can cause the tan to streak or fade.
Top Mistakes to Avoid
Now that you know what to wear before, during, and after your spray tan, let’s go over some common mistakes to avoid.
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Wearing Tight Clothing to Your Appointment: As mentioned earlier, tight clothing is a big no-no. It can cause friction and lead to a blotchy, uneven tan. Stick with loose, comfortable clothing to ensure your tan develops evenly.
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Not Prepping Your Skin: Skipping exfoliation before your spray tan is a mistake that can lead to patchy results. Exfoliate your skin 24 hours before your appointment to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface for the tan to adhere to.
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Using Oil-Based Products: Avoid using oil-based moisturizers or body washes before your spray tan. Oils can create a barrier on your skin that prevents the tanning solution from absorbing properly, resulting in a lighter or uneven tan. Opt for oil-free products instead.
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Shaving or Waxing Right Before Your Tan: Shaving or waxing immediately before your spray tan can open your pores, leading to tiny dots of darker color. Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your appointment to allow your pores to close.
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Touching Your Skin After the Tan: It can be tempting to touch your skin after your spray tan to see how it feels, but this can transfer oils from your hands to your skin, leading to uneven patches. Resist the urge and let the tan dry completely before touching your skin.
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Not Following Aftercare Instructions: Aftercare is crucial to maintaining your spray tan. Follow the instructions provided by your tanning technician, including avoiding water and sweating for the recommended time, moisturizing regularly, and avoiding harsh soaps and scrubs.
A flawless spray tan isn’t just about the tanning solution itself – it’s also about how you prepare, what you wear, and how you care for your tan afterward. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your spray tan lasts longer, looks better, and gives you that perfect, sun-kissed glow you’re after. At Hush Hush Tan, we’re here to help you achieve the best possible results, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Happy tanning!
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