Exfoliate
Gently exfoliate about 24 hours before your appointment, focusing on dry areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and feet.
Glow Guide
Tanning Tips for a Longer, Even Glow
Preparation and aftercare make a meaningful difference in how your custom spray tan looks and lasts. Use this guide before your visit, on appointment day, and while your glow develops.
Before Your Appointment
Prep for a Smooth, Even Finish
Clean, dry, exfoliated skin helps the solution develop evenly. Complete workouts, hair appointments, and spa treatments before you arrive whenever possible.
Shave or wax
Shave or wax at least 24 hours prior so pores can settle before application.
Skip lotions & oils
After showering, avoid moisturizer, body oil, makeup, deodorant, and perfume unless the studio gives different instructions.
Arrive clean & bare
Come with clean, dry skin. Remove jewelry when possible and wear loose, dark clothing for after your session.
Hydrate dry skin
In the days leading up, keep skin moisturized so it is healthy and even — then skip products the day of your tan.
Plan your timing
Allow development time after your appointment before swimming, heavy workouts, or events.
Appointment Day
What to Expect
Your artist will discuss your skin tone, undertones, occasion, and desired depth of color. Wear or bring loose, dark clothing and avoid products on the skin that can create barriers.
- Arrive a few minutes early so check-in is relaxed.
- Skip deodorant, perfume, lotion, and makeup on areas being sprayed.
- Tell your artist about dry patches, previous tans, or sensitivity concerns.
- Ask about rinse timing for your specific service (Custom Glow vs Rapid).
Immediately After
Protect the Developing Tan
Loose clothing
Choose loose, dark pieces. Avoid tight straps and light fabrics while the solution finishes developing.
Avoid water & sweat
Skip showers, swimming, heavy workouts, and activities that cause heavy sweating until after your first rinse.
First rinse timing
Rinse according to your service guidance — typically about 2–4 hours for Rapid and longer for Custom Glow. Follow the timing your artist confirms.
Maintaining the Tan
Help Your Glow Last Longer
Moisturize daily
Use an oil-free moisturizer to support even fading and comfortable skin.
Gentle showers
Prefer shorter, lukewarm showers. Avoid long hot baths when possible.
Skip harsh exfoliation
Avoid scrubbing, loofahs, and strong acids until the tan has faded.
Chlorine & hot tubs
Pools, hot tubs, and chlorinated water can lighten the tan more quickly.
Even fading
Consistent moisturizing and gentle cleansing help the color fade more evenly.
Extend the glow
Book a follow-up or use approved aftercare products from our studio to refresh between visits.
Common Questions
Quick Answers
Most clients enjoy their glow for several days to about a week, depending on skin type, aftercare, and activity level. Moisturizing and gentle showers help it last longer.
Follow the rinse window for your service. Rapid options typically rinse sooner; Custom Glow usually develops longer. Your artist will confirm the timing for your appointment.
Wait until after your first rinse. Sweat during development can affect the finish.
Avoid swimming until after development and your first rinse. Chlorine can also fade color more quickly afterward.
Wait until after your first rinse, then shave gently. Avoid waxing while the tan is fresh when possible.
Loose, dark clothing is best after your session. Tight straps and light fabrics can leave marks while the solution develops.
Book Your Glow
Ready for Your Next Glow?
Book a Custom Glow at Austin, Dallas, or Houston — or shop aftercare products to maintain your color.