YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PRE & POST SPRAY TAN CARE

(BECAUSE WE’RE NOT LETTING YOU LEAVE STREAKY!)

A spray tan just hits different. Whether it’s for a wedding weekend, beach trip, photos, girls’ night, or simply because life feels better with a little glow, there’s nothing like feeling bronzed and confident.

But here’s the thing: the secret to a flawless spray tan isn’t just the appointment itself, it’s the prep and aftercare. A little planning before and after can be the difference between an even, long-lasting glow and a tan that fades way too fast (or clings to dry patches… we’ve all been there).

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT:

Think of spray tanning like makeup aka your skin is the canvas. The smoother the base, the better the result.

• Exfoliate 24 hours before

  • If there’s one thing we’ll always recommend, it’s this: exfoliate! About 24 hours before your appointment, gently exfoliate to remove dry skin and help your tan develop evenly. Spend extra time on areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and wrists since those tend to hold onto color more. Trust us on this one…

• Shave or wax the day before

  • If shaving or waxing is part of your routine, aim to do it at least 24 hours before your appointment. Why? Freshly shaved skin or open pores can sometimes grab color unevenly. Giving your skin a little breathing room helps everything develop beautifully.

• Mani/Pedi? Do it first

  • This is your sign to get your nails done before your tan. Soaking hands and feet or scrubbing during a mani/pedi can affect your results, so it’s always best to make your spray tan your final beauty stop.

• Skip the lotions + oils

  • We know. This one feels wrong. But avoid heavy lotions, oils, or body products before your appointment. These can create a barrier on the skin and make it harder for your tan to absorb evenly.

THE DAY OF:

The goal? Show up with clean, product-free skin and let us do the rest.

• Come with clean, dry skin

  • No lotion, deodorant, perfume, body oil, or makeup if possible. Clean skin gives us the best canvas for a seamless, natural glow.

• Wear loose, dark clothing

  • Post-tan outfit check: oversized tee, loose sweatpants, comfy set.

  • Your tan is still developing after your appointment, so tight leggings, bras, straps, or anything restrictive can sometimes cause uneven areas while your glow sets.

• Avoid sweating (sorry we know it’s impossible in Nashville heat!)

  • We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but post-tan hot yoga, long walks in Nashville humidity, or gym sessions? Probably not your best move.

  • Until your first rinse, try to avoid sweating, swimming, rain, or getting wet to protect your results.

SIGNATURE V EXPRESS: HERE’S THE DIF!

Not all tans are created equal, and your rinse time matters.

• If you’re getting a signature glow tan

  • Plan to rinse 8–12 hours after your appointment.

  • When it’s rinse time:

    • Use lukewarm water only (no soap yet)

    • Gently pat dry—don’t rub

    • Know your tan will continue developing over the next 24 hours

  • Translation: don’t panic if it’s not fully there immediately. The glow is still loading!

• If you’re getting an express glow tan

  • Express tans are perfect if you’re short on time or want more flexibility with your glow level.

  • Here’s the cheat sheet:

    • 1–2 hours = Light glow

    • 2–3 hours = Medium glow

    • 3–4 hours = Dark glow

  • After rinsing:

    • Stick to lukewarm water only

    • No soap for your first rinse

    • Your tan will continue developing for 12–24 hours afterward

    • Avoid sweating or getting wet again during the development period

  • Basically: trust the process.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR TAN LOOKING GOOD LONGER

Want your tan to last more than a few days? Hydration is your best friend!

• Moisturize daily

  • Once you’ve completed your first rinse, start moisturizing every day—preferably with an oil-free lotion.

  • Dry skin = faster fading. Hydrated skin = longer glow.

• Be gentle

  • Swap harsh body washes for something gentle and sulfate-free. Skip scrubs, loofahs, chlorine, and marathon-hot showers if possible.

  • (We know. The everything shower may need to wait.)

• Pat dry, don’t rub

  • After showering, gently pat skin dry instead of aggressively towel-drying. Your tan will thank you.

FINAL THOUGHTS:Your Glow, Your Way

At Berry Hill Beauty, every spray tan is customized to your skin tone and desired result, because your glow should still look like you, just bronzier.Whether you’re going for subtle, sun-kissed, or full vacation energy, we’ve got you.

Ready for your glow-up? Reserve your spray tan at BHB and let us handle the glow.