How to Prepare for a Spray Tan: The Ultimate Spray Tan Prep Guide
If you’re searching for the best spray tan in Birmingham or Troy, AL, preparation is everything. Whether you’re booking a spray tan before a wedding, vacation, photoshoot, pageant, or special event, knowing how to prepare for a spray tan ensures flawless, long-lasting results.
At Iconic Upgrades, our custom airbrush spray tans are designed to look natural, even, and beautifully bronzed — never orange, never streaky. Here’s everything you need to know about spray tan prep, development time, sunburn precautions, and aftercare.
When Should I Book My Spray Tan Before an Event?
For best results, book your spray tan 2–3 days before your event.
This is especially important if you are scheduling:
• A spray tan before a wedding
• A spray tan before vacation
• A spray tan before photos
• A spray tan before a pageant or formal
Your spray tan continues to develop for up to 24 hours after your first rinse. While you will rinse at your assigned time (classic or express), your final color deepens and settles naturally over the next day.
Booking 2–3 days prior allows:
• Full color development
• Time for bronzer to rinse completely
• A natural, settled finish
• Minor adjustments if ever needed
Most spray tans last 7–10 days depending on skin type and aftercare.
Can You Get a Spray Tan with a Sunburn?
No — we do not spray over active sunburn.
If your skin is:
• Red
• Hot to the touch
• Tender
• Peeling
You need to wait.
Spray tan solution reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin. When your skin barrier is compromised from sun exposure, results can develop unevenly, appear overly dark, or fade in patches as peeling occurs.
You should wait until:
• Redness is completely gone
• Skin is no longer sensitive
• There is no active peeling
Healthy skin is the foundation of a flawless spray tan. If you are unsure whether you should proceed, it is always better to reschedule.
Spray Tan Prep Checklist: Step-by-Step
Proper spray tan prep is what separates an average result from a flawless one.
Exfoliate Properly Before Your Spray Tan
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells so your spray tan applies evenly and fades beautifully.
• Exfoliate 2–3 times per week leading up to your appointment
• Shave first, then exfoliate
• Use gentle circular motions
• Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and underarms
Avoid oil-based scrubs — especially viral sugar scrubs like Tree Hut. Oil leaves a barrier on the skin that repels spray tan solution and can cause streaks or light spots. If your skin feels slick or moisturized after exfoliating, it is not spray-tan safe.
We recommend a professional exfoliating mitt for best results.
How to Shave Before a Spray Tan
Shave at least 24 hours before your spray tan appointment if possible.
Avoid:
• Razors with built-in moisturizer strips
• Heavy multi-blade razors that increase ingrown hairs
Cleaner skin equals smoother development.
What Not to Wear to a Spray Tan Appointment
On the day of your spray tan:
• Shower and rinse thoroughly
• Do not apply lotion, oil, perfume, deodorant, or makeup
• Arrive with completely clean, dry skin
Wear:
• Loose, dark clothing
• Oversized tee and sweatpants
• Maxi dress
• Slip-on shoes
Tight clothing can rub during development and create streaking.
What Happens at a Spray Tan Appointment?
When you arrive at Iconic Upgrades for your custom spray tan in Birmingham or Troy, AL, we begin with a quick consultation.
We customize your:
• Shade depth
• Undertone
• Development time
You are welcome to dress down to your comfort level, and disposable undergarments are available.
Your technician will guide you through simple poses while applying your custom airbrush spray tan evenly from head to toe. The appointment takes about 15–20 minutes.
Before you leave, we review:
• Your rinse time
• How to rinse properly
• Spray tan aftercare instructions
Your true color will continue developing for up to 24 hours after rinsing.
Spray Tan Aftercare: How to Make Your Spray Tan Last Longer
Proper spray tan aftercare extends the life of your glow.
• Moisturize daily with a tan-safe lotion
• Avoid long, hot showers
• Pat dry instead of rubbing
• Avoid chlorine and hot tubs when possible
• Do not exfoliate until you’re ready for removal
With proper care, your spray tan should last 7–10 days and fade evenly.
Best Spray Tan in Birmingham & Troy, AL
If you’re searching for a “spray tan near me,” Iconic Upgrades offers professional custom airbrush spray tans in Birmingham and Troy, Alabama.
Our technicians perform over 1,000 spray tans per year, ensuring consistent color, seasonally adjusted formulas, and flawless results every time.
Whether you need a spray tan before a wedding, vacation, photoshoot, or special event, we’re here to create your most natural, radiant glow.
Book your spray tan appointment today and experience the Iconic difference. 💞