What should I wear while self-tanning?

Author: Pietro Swift Sr.  |  Last update: Monday, July 21, 2025

A. We always recommend wearing loose, dark clothing after any tanning application to ensure your tan doesn't transfer. Our Self Tanning Robe is designed oversized to avoid creasing your tan and features ¾ sleeves to avoid transferring your tan while you marinate for the most comfortable tanning experience.

What do you wear while self tanning?

WEAR LOOSE-FITTING CLOTHING FOR THE NEXT 5-7 HOURS

If I apply self tanner at night, I wear loose jammies (long pants, long sleeves) and socks once everything is dry. This helps keep the tanner transferring to my sheets to a minimum.

What is the best thing to wear while tanning?

Loose, baggy clothes are your best friends here. Think oversized T-shirts, loose-fitting dresses, or baggy sweatpants. Not only will they prevent any unwanted friction, but they also allow your skin to breathe, which is essential for the tan to develop evenly.

Is it better to wear pants or shorts after self tanning?

You want to make sure whatever you are putting on does not hug the skin too tight. If your clothes are too tight, it can rub the tan right off. It's best to wear loose sweat pants and a loose t-shirt or sweatshirt. Absolutely NO jeans, socks, or leggings. Wait until after your first initial shower to wear these.

Do you fully undress for a 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.

BEST AT HOME SELF TAN ROUTINE BY A PRO SPRAY TAN ARTIST

How much do you tip for a $40 spray tan?

What is the etiquette for tipping? The beauty industry standard is 20%.

What to wear for a spray tan for beginners?

We recommend wearing loose-fitting and easy-to-remove clothing. Stick to dark colours – A new spray tan will look amazing, but there is always a risk of some staining on your clothes, particularly when getting dressed after your tan.

Should you cover your privates when tanning?

If you're going commando, it might be a good idea to protect your most sensitive parts, such as nipples and genitals, because the skin is more sensitive and could be more prone to burning (you definitely don't want to burn there-ouch!). Please never start a tanning session without goggles, this is so important.

What not to do after self-tanning?

It is important not to wear tight clothing after applying fake tan as this can cause your tan to rub off or cause marks. This can make self-tanning in the morning more difficult as you must wear dark, loose clothing to avoid any transfer and you can't use deodorant or perfume.

How long should I wait to put clothes on after self-tanning?

After applying your self-tanner, you'll need to give the product time to dry and settle on your skin. Do not get dressed right away, wrap yourself in a towel, or lie down. Wait about 10 to 15 minutes before putting clothes on—and even then, wear loose-fitting attire.

What is the golden rule of tanning?

The professional indoor tanning industry promotes and teaches what we refer to as The Golden Rule of Smart Tanning: Don't ever sunburn. The indoor tanning industry has been more effective at teaching sunburn prevention than those who promote complete sun avoidance.

What should I wear to bed after fake tanning?

We always recommend wearing loose dark clothing after any tanning application, which is why we have created our Bondi Babe Pyjamas. Designed to be a loose fit with a scoop neck to avoid creasing tan after dressing, our Bondi Babe Pyjamas are full length and ultra soft for the most comfortable post tanning experience.

What not to do when tanning?

Avoid wearing make-up, perfume or deodorant on the day of the tanning bed session. That's because these chemicals can negatively impact the even result of the final tan. For the same reason, please don't wear watches or jewellery.

Is it better to fake tan in the morning or afternoon?

Immediately after tanning, let it dry completely before putting on some loose, dark clothing to prevent your tan transferring. Either apply your self tan in the morning for daytime development, or apply before you go to bed to wake up looking bronzed and beautiful.

How do you prepare yourself for self-tanning?

Here's the ultimate five-step skin prep routine that will majorly improve your fake tan game.
  1. STEP ONE: EXFOLIATE. We all want our fake tan to look believable, but the most tell-tale sign of an at-home job is patchiness. ...
  2. STEP TWO: MOISTURISE. ...
  3. STEP THREE: CLEANSE. ...
  4. STEP FOUR: MOISTURISE AGAIN. ...
  5. STEP FIVE: REFRESH.

Can you wear a bra while self-tanning?

When deciding what to wear to a spray tan session, always choose loose clothing that won't rub on your skin. Flowy dresses and skirts, or loose-fitting jumpsuits without elastic are ideal. If you're comfortable, avoid wearing a bra or underwear, which tends to cling to skin and may cause discoloration.

What to wear while fake tanning?

Tight clothes may cause lines or create friction, which can make tan turn patchy in the areas that rub. Light fabrics are also prone to staining, so loose, dark, comfy clothes are the perfect choice while you're waiting for your tan to develop.

Should I shave my legs before or after self-tanning?

This seems easy enough, but a lot of people forget to shave before applying self tanner. However, you prefer to remove hair (waxing, shaving, laser, etc.) please do yourself a favor and do it before you apply product. Hair removal after-the-fact can remove your tan, leaving splotchy marks on your legs.

How do you not smell after self-tanning?

Odor neutralisers or perfumes.

If you're in a rush or don't have the opportunity to shower, a little perfume, cream, or body butter goes a long way. Choose a scent that harmonises with the scent of the tanner for best results.

What do you wear when you go tanning?

Generally, tanning bed clients can wear a swimsuit, undergarments to tan or go nude if they prefer. No matter how much you choose to disrobe, your tanning room will be secure and private for your comfort.

How to avoid bunny tail in tanning bed?

☀️Tanning Tip Tuesday☀️ How to avoid the “bunny tail” or white spots on lower back or under your arms or sides: ✅ when using a lay down bed always reposition your body every few minutes to achieve an even tan. Switch from side to side and rest your arms behind your head .

Is it better to sleep in shorts or pants after self tanning?

When you perspire, tanning solution will transfer to your hand, and cause staining. If you know you'll be sleeping with your hand between your knees, it's best to wear loose pajama pants and an oversized t-shirt. We also recommend laying a towel over your pillow to prevent any bronzer transfer from your neck.

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.

Is it awkward getting a spray tan?

“It's normal to feel weird,” says Von Hep. “You're about to get completely butt-naked in front of a stranger who hasn't bought you dinner—WTF! But don't panic, it's just a spray tan.” If you're not wanting to get buck naked, no worries at all.

Will sunless tanners protect me from sunburn?

While self-tanners can be a safer alternative than the sun, it won't protect you from the sun's rays, and you should take extra care when using spray formulas.

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