How to prepare for a spray tan

24 hours before

• Exfoliate head to toe with an oil-free scrub or mitt — oils leave a barrier the solution cannot pass.
• Shave or wax now, not on the day, so follicles have closed before the tan is applied.
• Have any manicure, pedicure or facial treatments done beforehand.

On the day

• Arrive with completely clean skin: no moisturiser, deodorant, perfume, make-up or fake tan residue.
• Bring loose, dark clothing and open shoes to change into afterwards.
• Tie long hair up and off the shoulders.

During the appointment

We agree the shade first, then apply a barrier cream to hands, feet, knees and elbows. The application itself takes fifteen to twenty minutes, including drying time in front of the extraction unit.

Development and first rinse

A standard solution develops over four to eight hours; an express formula can be rinsed after one. Rinse in cool water with no soap or shower gel until the water runs clear, then pat dry with a dark towel. The colour continues to deepen for a few hours afterwards.

Making it last

• Moisturise every morning and evening — hydrated skin sheds more slowly and fades more evenly.
• Pat dry rather than rubbing after every shower.
• Avoid long hot baths, chlorinated pools, saunas and exfoliating or acid-based skincare.
• Use a gradual tan balm from day four to extend the colour rather than letting it patch.

Common mistakes

Applying deodorant before the appointment (which can turn the tan green under the arms), showering too early, and skipping exfoliation on the ankles and hands are behind the majority of uneven results.