How to Prepare for your AirBrush Tan
Ready to glow like you just got back from a sunny vacation?
Here’s your ultimate guide to prepping your skin for the best spray tan ever!

Before the Tan (1-2 days before)

Preparing Your Skin for Your Spray Tan

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• Exfoliate & Moisturize:

  • Think of this as your skin's pre-party pampering session! Use a water-based lotion and exfoliate in the days leading up to your appointment (aim for 24 hours before).

  • Focus on key areas: elbows, knees, ankles, and feet. Don't forget your neck and armpits too!

  • Avoid Dove, Olay, bar soaps and high pH shower products. 

  • Grab a high-quality exfoliating mitt (like the FRESH GLOW Deep Exfoliating & Tan Removing Mitt). It’s your secret weapon for scrubbing away dead skin and any previous tan remnants.

  • Stubborn old sunless tan? GLOW REMOVER Exfoliating Mousse helps melt that old tan.

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• Hair Removal:

  • Wax or shave at least 24-48 hours before your treatment. This gives your pores some time to chill before the tan!

  • Use a fresh razor with 3-5 blades—but ditch the moisture strip. You want smooth skin, not a moisture mishap!

  • Check out this fantastic 3-blade razor without a moisture strip for your next shaving session.

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• Mani/Pedi Plans:

  • Planning a mani or pedi? Do this before your spray tan. If you need to do it after - a polish change is ok,  just no acetone or scrubbing.

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• The 24-Hour Rule:

  • For 24 hours before your tan, avoid bar soaps, high pH products, and oil-based lotions. They can interfere with your tan and leave you looking uneven.

  • Instead, reach for a pH-balanced body wash like CLEAN GLOW. Your skin will appreciate it, and so will your tan!

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• Shower Timing:

  • Ideally, allow 4 hours between your last shower and your appointment.

  • Showering too close can disrupt your skin’s pH balance, leading to a tan that doesn’t stick properly.

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• Dress Code:

  • Arrive with bare skin—no lotions, oils, deodorants, makeup, or perfumes. We want your skin ready to soak up that gorgeous tan!

  • Wear loose-fitting, dark, long-sleeved clothing after your spray tan. This will protect your fresh color from accidental splashes and skin-on-skin contact. We want you to glow, not streak!

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Day of Service

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR FIRST IN-HOME SPRAY TAN

What to Expect During Your First In-Home Spray Tan

The big day has arrived! Here’s what to expect as you prepare for your stunning new tan:

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• Timing is Everything:

  • Set aside 90 minutes for your appointment. We don’t want to rush the magic!

  • Mobile appointments take about 30 min with the actual spray session lasting around 10 min.

  • New client sessions may take about 45+ minutes (yes, we love to chat!). I’m here to answer all your questions—no question is too silly!

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• Set-Up Time:

  • I’ll arrive with a pop-up tent and a rolling bag—your personal mobile tanning studio!

  • I need a 4 ft x 4 ft space (about an arm’s span) and access to an electric outlet. Think bathroom, kitchen, or living room—whatever feels comfy for you!

  • Your floor will be protected with an oversized sheet, and my technique ensures that all extra spray stays inside the tent. 

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• Consultation Time:

  • You’ll receive a consultation to nail down your custom color blend. New customers will complete a skin questionnaire, allergy info, and a waiver.

  • Pro tip: Bring a picture of the color you like. It helps me help you!

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• What to Wear:

  • Women (18+) can choose to wear an old bathing suit, bra and undies, go topless, or even nude. Tan lines are totally your call!

  • Just a heads up: whatever you wear might get some washable bronzer on it, so dark colors are the way to go. Disposable undergarments are available upon request.

  • Men, you’re required to wear undergarments. I recommend briefs.

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• Spray Tan Time:

  • I’ll airbrush you with a custom blend of natural, organic-based luxury airbrush solution.

  • I’ll guide you through the entire process, letting you know when to lift your arms and turn around.

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• Drying Off:

  • Once the session wraps, I’ll dust you in a drying powder to fully set your tan.

  • Drying time is about 5 minutes. 

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• Relax & Unwind:

  • Don’t schedule anything for the next few hours while you’re processing. This is your time to kick back and let the magic happen!

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• Payment Options:

  • I accept Cash (exact change only), credit card, Apple Pay, Zelle. Any additional parking fees (meter, garage, or valet) and gratuity are not included.

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• Questions?

  • Questions before your appointment? Text (312-436-1550), or email me anytime! I’m here to help!

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Immediately After Service

THE NEXT 24 HOURS

Congratulations! You’re now a glow-getter! Here’s what to do next:

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• Rapid Rinse Rules:

  • We use a Rapid Rinse solution that MUST be showered off at the recommended time.

  • Leaving it on too long can risk an unnatural color—yikes! We’ll set a timer on your phone to keep you on track.

  • Late evening appointments may opt for the Original Solution, which can be worn for 8+ hours/overnight. No need to stress; it stops processing automatically!

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• Relaxation Time:

  • Use this processing time to put your feet up and RELAX!

  • Avoid getting wet, sweating, working out, washing your hands, or wearing tight clothing until after your first shower. Think of this as your “Do Not Disturb” phase!

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• First Shower:

  • When it’s time to rinse, shower with plain luke warm water only—no soaps or body washes.

  • Gently rub off the bronzers with your hand. The brown bronzers WILL wash away, but don’t panic! You’ll start to see your color in about 8 hours.

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• Pat Don’t Rub:

  • Pat your skin dry with your towel—no rubbing! We want that glow to stick around!

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• Developing Color:

  • You’ll keep developing for 24 hours after your appointment.

  • For the best results, wear loose clothing. Tight bras, shirts, or pants can cause streaks and indentations. If you’re flying the next day, plan a loose outfit wisely!

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• Avoid Activities:

  • Hold off on activities that make you sweat, like the gym or hot yoga, and skip soaking in pools or hot tubs for now. They can mess with your tan!

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• Post-Tan Care:

  • After 12-24 hours, you can resume regular showering with a mild, sulfate-free body wash.

  • Use an oil-free moisturizer and tan extender to keep your fresh color looking fab!

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Maintaining Your Tan

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SUNLESS TAN - SPRAY TAN AFTER CARE

Want your tan to last? Here’s how to keep that glow going strong:

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• Avoid the Strippers:

  • Steer clear of products with mineral oils, alcohols, and heavy fragrances. They’ll strip your color and cause you to streak and fade patchy.

  • Spray perfume on your clothes instead of your skin. 

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• Sun Protection Reminder:

  • Spray tan does NOT protect you from the sun! Use an oil-free sunblock, and avoid spray-on sunscreens—they contain alcohol that strips your tan.

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• Shaving Tips:

  • If you must shave, go lightly with some conditioner or CLEAN GLOW. Shaving cream (packed with alcohol) will remove your spray tan faster than you can say “whoops!”

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• Boosting Your Glow:

  • Starting on day 2 or 3, boost your sunless color with our Gradual Glow tan extender.

  • This professional formula keeps your color vibrant and moisturized. Gentle enough for your face, these products will keep you looking sun-kissed and radiant! (Full size and Travel Mini available)

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By incorporating these tips and maintaining your routine, you’re on your way to achieving and preserving the best spray tan ever! Let the glow begin!

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I know this is A LOT OF INFO!

By following these instructions, you will have a long lasting gorgeous glow!

If you have ANY questions I am here for YOU!

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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BRIDAL GLOW TIPS

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Want more spray tan tips? Go to our blog page!

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