What day after a spray tan does it look best?

Author: Lesley Thiel  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 23, 2025

We recommend getting your spray tan 2 - 3 days before the big day. It's definitely best to avoid the wedding-eve as the tan will continue to develop for 24-48 hours, so will need some time for the full result to appear.

What day does spray tan look best?

If you get a spray tan four or more days before your event, your tan will start to fade, the colour won't be as dark and won't pop against your outfit like a fresh tan would. Try to aim to book your spray tan two to three days before your event and your tan will be the perfect colour.

Does spray tan look better the next day?

Yes. Getting a spray tan 1-2 days before a photoshoot will enhance your skin color, smooth your complexion and make your eyes and teeth sparkle.

What day does your fake tan look best?

We'd recommend tanning a couple of days before your special occasion. This will give your golden colour time to settle and offers an opportunity to rectify any potential mistakes. A well-applied tan will last for approximately 7 days with regular moisturising to lock-in your glow.

How long does it take for a spray tan to look normal?

Because your skin is constantly creating new skin cells on the epidermis level, any skin treatment will fade over time. Spray tans generally last for 7-10 days, depending on the coverage you requested; if you wanted a lighter color, your tan could fade more quickly.

What day is your spray tan the best?

Do spray tans look darker at first?

Seeing before and after photos is the best way to understand how a spray tan transforms your skin. Immediately after your session, the solution gives the illusion of a darker color, but once you rinse off, the true shade appears. You can expect a smooth, even, and natural glow.

When can I wear deodorant after spray tan?

It's quite normal after a spray tan to feel a bit sticky and sweaty. The temptation to reach for your deodorant is immense. However, we recommend avoiding deodorant for at least 12 hours after a spray tan as it can cause unsightly streaks.

Is it better to fake tan at night or morning?

Applying at night gives your self-tanner time to develop a natural tan look. Things like showering, rain, or tight clothes can mess up your tan when it's trying to settle. And some tanning products will also stain! As the self-tanner process can take up to eight hours, applying right before bed is super convenient.

How soon before a wedding to get spray tan?

We recommend getting your spray tan 2 - 3 days before the big day. It's definitely best to avoid the wedding-eve as the tan will continue to develop for 24-48 hours, so will need some time for the full result to appear.

Should you moisturize after fake tanning?

Once you have washed off your fake tan moisturise your skin daily to increase the longevity of your tan. Dry, dehydrated skin will cause your dead skin cells to shed quicker, taking the fake tan you worked so hard for with it. Use an oil-free moisturiser as oil can break down the product [2].

Do you spray tan naked?

No, you don't have to be naked when you spray tan. While some people prefer to be nude to avoid tan lines, you have the option to wear whatever is most comfortable for you—like a swimsuit or underwear. During your tan, bronzer could transfer to your clothing but don't worry!

Can I shave 2 hours before spray tan?

Avoid shaving immediately before your spray tan session. Ideally, shave 24 hours prior to allow your skin to recover and avoid any potential irritation. Exfoliate gently: If you're shaving before tanning, gently exfoliate your skin using a mild scrub or exfoliating glove.

How soon after a spray tan can I shower?

Wait 4-8 hours before showering to let your tan fully develop, but avoid leaving it on for more than 24 hours. During this time, steer clear of moisture—no sweating, workouts, or liquid foundation.

Should I get my nails done before or after a spray tan?

Nail appointments ideally should be done 24 hours before your spray tan. Nails and pedicures CAN be done the day of your spray tan, but please exfoliate any lotion or residue off. Nail appointments CANNOT be done immediately after your spray tan. Nail appointments CAN be done the day AFTER your spray tan.

How do you get the best results from a spray tan?

Remember, a great spray tan starts with great preparation. So exfoliate, moisturize, dress wisely, and keep your skin product-free on the day of your session. Once you've got your gorgeous glow, take good care of it. Avoid sweating, stay hydrated, moisturize generously, and resist the urge to take hot showers.

How many days before pictures should I get a spray tan?

Typically, I recommend spraying 2-3 days before a big event (wedding, photo shoot, etc.) and 1 day before you leave to go on a long vacation! If you follow proper pre tan and post tan care instructions, your tan can last up to 9-10 days.

Is it better to get a spray tan 2 or 3 days before the wedding?

The best time to get a spray tan is 2-3 days before the wedding. In this time window, the tan will develop and look most natural. Most importantly, it won't begin to fade or look patchy. If you're new to spray tanning, you should do a test run first.

What is the best thing to wear after a spray tan?

WEAR LOOSE-FITTING CLOTHING

After your tan, you should wear loose-fitting clothing so your tan doesn't rub off or look uneven. The perfect outfit is a long, black t-shirt dress and sandals. You'll want to avoid wearing anything tight, like jeans, leggings, yoga pants, socks, or sneakers.

Can you sleep on your side after a spray tan?

Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides: If possible, try to sleep on your back to minimize the amount of contact your tan has with the sheets. This can help prevent smudging and ensure your tan stays intact.

What day does fake tan look best?

The Two-Day Rule: When it comes to tanning before an event, it is generally recommended to have a spray tan or apply your own tan two days prior to the occasion. The reason behind this is that all tans take approximately 24 hours to fully develop, even after rinsing off the initial bronzer.

Do you spray tan your face?

Spray tanning your face ensures a consistent, natural-looking glow from head to toe. If you skip your face, you might end up with a noticeable difference between your tanned body and your natural skin tone, especially if you wear minimal makeup.

How to make fake tan look natural?

  1. Step 1 - Exfoliate your Skin. Having gorgeous, clean skin is great but not if there are lots of dead skin cells determined to cling onto it! ...
  2. Step 2 - Cleanse your Skin. Before applying fake tan it's vitally important to have clean skin. ...
  3. Step 3 - Moisturising. ...
  4. Step 4 - Take care of your Hair Line and Eyebrows.

What is the best self tanner?

After extensive testing, we determined the highest rated self-tanner to be the St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse. It's an airy mousse that's easy to apply and blend and leaves you with a natural-looking glow. You can also customize the depth of color based on how long you leave it on your skin.

How do I make my spray tan last longer?

The easiest way to make your spray tan last longer is to keep topping it up. A gradual tanning lotion will keep your skin hydrated, while also enhancing your tan a little more each day. Our Gradual Tan Tinted Everyday Body Lotion is perfect for this!

When can I wear jeans after a spray tan?

Hours After Spray Tan

Right after your appointment we don't recommend wearing leggings, jeans, sport bras, or tight fitted clothes. For 24 hours after your appointment, it's best to avoid any moisture getting onto your skin.

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