FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Getting your first spray tan can feel a little intimidating. You might have questions about what to wear, what the process actually looks like, whether it’s awkward, or whether you’ll end up looking orange. All of those concerns are completely normal — and completely addressable.
Here’s an honest, detailed walkthrough of what to expect before, during, and after your first professional spray tan, so you can walk in feeling confident and walk out looking great.
Here’s an honest, detailed walkthrough of what to expect before, during, and after your first professional spray tan, so you can walk in feeling confident and walk out looking great.
Your spray tan appointment is only half the equation. What you do in the hours and days after your session determines how long your tan lasts, how evenly it fades, and how natural it continues to look throughout its lifespan.Good aftercare isn’t complicated, but it does require some intention.
Before Your Appointment: How to PrepareGood preparation makes the biggest difference in your results. Here’s the timeline to follow:
48 hours before: If you need to wax, get a facial, or have any other skin treatment, schedule it now — at least two full days before your spray tan. These treatments can leave residues or sensitise the skin.
24 hours before: Exfoliate your entire body with a gentle, non-oil-based scrub. This removes the dead, flaky skin that causes patchiness and uneven colour. Also shave any areas you plan to shave — doing it the day before (instead of the morning of) lets your pores close and your skin settle.
The morning of: Shower early if needed, but avoid soaps or conditioners that leave residue. Then the big rule — don’t apply anything to your skin. No lotion, no deodorant, no perfume, no makeup, no sunscreen. Come to your appointment with completely bare, clean skin from head to toe.
What to WearWear dark, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. Think long cotton pants, a loose tank or t-shirt, and flip-flops or sandals. After your spray tan, you’ll need to avoid tight clothing that presses against the skin — no tight bras, fitted jeans, socks, or closed-toe shoes for the rest of the day. The solution needs space to develop without friction disturbing it.
Many clients bring a separate outfit to change into after their spray tan — a loose maxi dress or oversized clothes work great.
What Happens When You ArriveEvery studio is a little different, but the general flow is the same. Your spray tan artist will greet you, ask about your goals (subtle glow vs deep bronze), discuss your skin type and any concerns, and recommend a solution shade and undertone based on your complexion.
If this is your first time, a good artist will walk you through the entire process before starting. Don’t hesitate to ask questions — experienced technicians expect first-time clients to have them.
What to Wear During the Spray TanThis is the question most first-timers are nervous about. The answer: whatever you’re comfortable with.
Most spray tan studios provide disposable undergarments. Some clients wear those. Some wear their own dark swimsuit or underwear. Some go fully undressed. There’s no wrong choice — it’s entirely about your comfort level. Your artist is a professional who does this all day, every day, and they’re focused on technique and even application, not judging your body.
If you’re wearing any undergarments, just know that any fabric creates a tan line. The solution can’t get through material, so the covered area will remain your natural colour. For the most seamless result, less coverage means fewer lines — but again, it’s your call. Your artist will also provide a hair net to keep your hair protected during the session.
The Actual Spray Tan ProcessThe application itself typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Here’s what it looks like:
Your artist may first apply a pH Balancing Spray to your skin. This product cleanses the surface and optimizes your skin’s pH for even DHA absorption. Next, they’ll apply Barrier Cream to areas prone to over-darkening — palms, tops of the feet, cuticles, elbows, and knees. This creates a protective layer that prevents those dry or calloused areas from absorbing too much color.
Then the actual spray tan begins. The artist uses an HVLP (high volume, low pressure) system or airbrush machine to apply a fine mist of tanning solution across your body. They’ll guide you through a series of positions — arms up, turn around, legs apart — to ensure full, even coverage.
The mist feels cool and light, similar to a fine water spray. It doesn’t hurt, sting, or feel uncomfortable. The artist works section by section, drying each area with the machine’s airflow between passes. The whole body application is quick and efficient.
What You Look Like Immediately AfterRight after your spray tan, you’ll see an immediate change. The cosmetic bronzers in the solution give you an instant tan look. This is not your final colour — it’s the temporary bronzer acting as a visual guide. Your real DHA tan develops over the next 8 to 24 hours underneath.
The initial colour will look darker than your final result. Don’t be alarmed if it seems intense at first — the bronzer exaggerates the colour and washes off completely during your first shower. What’s left underneath is your natural-looking DHA tan.
After Your Appointment: The Development PhaseFor the next 8 hours (or 2–5 hours if you got a rapid solution), the DHA is actively developing. During this time:
Don’t get wet — no showers, no rain, no sweatingDon’t apply any products — no lotion, deodorant, or perfumeWear your dark, loose clothingAvoid sitting in one position for too long (it can create pressure marks)Don’t exercise or do anything that makes you sweatMany people schedule their spray tans in the late afternoon or evening so they can sleep through the development phase and shower the next morning.
Your First ShowerWhen the development time is up, take a quick, lukewarm shower — no soap, no scrubbing, just water. You’ll see bronzer washing off in the water, which is completely normal. Pat dry with a towel (don’t rub) and wait about 30 minutes before applying any moisturiser.
Your tan may look lighter right after showering than it did before. Don’t panic — DHA continues to develop for up to 24 hours. Check your colour the next morning for the true result. Your first shower after a spray tan is a rinse, not a scrub. Here’s what to expect:
When the water hits your body, you’ll see coloured water running off. This is the cosmetic bronzer washing away — not your actual tan. The bronzer was doing its job as a colour guide during application and development, and now that the DHA has had time to react with your skin, the bronzer’s job is done.
It’s completely normal for the rinse water to be brown, golden, or even slightly dark. Some people see a lot of color coming off and panic, thinking their tan is disappearing. It’s not. Your DHA-developed colour is in your skin cells, not sitting on top of them. The bronzer was always going to wash off.
48 hours before: If you need to wax, get a facial, or have any other skin treatment, schedule it now — at least two full days before your spray tan. These treatments can leave residues or sensitise the skin.
24 hours before: Exfoliate your entire body with a gentle, non-oil-based scrub. This removes the dead, flaky skin that causes patchiness and uneven colour. Also shave any areas you plan to shave — doing it the day before (instead of the morning of) lets your pores close and your skin settle.
The morning of: Shower early if needed, but avoid soaps or conditioners that leave residue. Then the big rule — don’t apply anything to your skin. No lotion, no deodorant, no perfume, no makeup, no sunscreen. Come to your appointment with completely bare, clean skin from head to toe.
What to WearWear dark, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. Think long cotton pants, a loose tank or t-shirt, and flip-flops or sandals. After your spray tan, you’ll need to avoid tight clothing that presses against the skin — no tight bras, fitted jeans, socks, or closed-toe shoes for the rest of the day. The solution needs space to develop without friction disturbing it.
Many clients bring a separate outfit to change into after their spray tan — a loose maxi dress or oversized clothes work great.
What Happens When You ArriveEvery studio is a little different, but the general flow is the same. Your spray tan artist will greet you, ask about your goals (subtle glow vs deep bronze), discuss your skin type and any concerns, and recommend a solution shade and undertone based on your complexion.
If this is your first time, a good artist will walk you through the entire process before starting. Don’t hesitate to ask questions — experienced technicians expect first-time clients to have them.
What to Wear During the Spray TanThis is the question most first-timers are nervous about. The answer: whatever you’re comfortable with.
Most spray tan studios provide disposable undergarments. Some clients wear those. Some wear their own dark swimsuit or underwear. Some go fully undressed. There’s no wrong choice — it’s entirely about your comfort level. Your artist is a professional who does this all day, every day, and they’re focused on technique and even application, not judging your body.
If you’re wearing any undergarments, just know that any fabric creates a tan line. The solution can’t get through material, so the covered area will remain your natural colour. For the most seamless result, less coverage means fewer lines — but again, it’s your call. Your artist will also provide a hair net to keep your hair protected during the session.
The Actual Spray Tan ProcessThe application itself typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Here’s what it looks like:
Your artist may first apply a pH Balancing Spray to your skin. This product cleanses the surface and optimizes your skin’s pH for even DHA absorption. Next, they’ll apply Barrier Cream to areas prone to over-darkening — palms, tops of the feet, cuticles, elbows, and knees. This creates a protective layer that prevents those dry or calloused areas from absorbing too much color.
Then the actual spray tan begins. The artist uses an HVLP (high volume, low pressure) system or airbrush machine to apply a fine mist of tanning solution across your body. They’ll guide you through a series of positions — arms up, turn around, legs apart — to ensure full, even coverage.
The mist feels cool and light, similar to a fine water spray. It doesn’t hurt, sting, or feel uncomfortable. The artist works section by section, drying each area with the machine’s airflow between passes. The whole body application is quick and efficient.
What You Look Like Immediately AfterRight after your spray tan, you’ll see an immediate change. The cosmetic bronzers in the solution give you an instant tan look. This is not your final colour — it’s the temporary bronzer acting as a visual guide. Your real DHA tan develops over the next 8 to 24 hours underneath.
The initial colour will look darker than your final result. Don’t be alarmed if it seems intense at first — the bronzer exaggerates the colour and washes off completely during your first shower. What’s left underneath is your natural-looking DHA tan.
After Your Appointment: The Development PhaseFor the next 8 hours (or 2–5 hours if you got a rapid solution), the DHA is actively developing. During this time:
Don’t get wet — no showers, no rain, no sweatingDon’t apply any products — no lotion, deodorant, or perfumeWear your dark, loose clothingAvoid sitting in one position for too long (it can create pressure marks)Don’t exercise or do anything that makes you sweatMany people schedule their spray tans in the late afternoon or evening so they can sleep through the development phase and shower the next morning.
Your First ShowerWhen the development time is up, take a quick, lukewarm shower — no soap, no scrubbing, just water. You’ll see bronzer washing off in the water, which is completely normal. Pat dry with a towel (don’t rub) and wait about 30 minutes before applying any moisturiser.
Your tan may look lighter right after showering than it did before. Don’t panic — DHA continues to develop for up to 24 hours. Check your colour the next morning for the true result. Your first shower after a spray tan is a rinse, not a scrub. Here’s what to expect:
When the water hits your body, you’ll see coloured water running off. This is the cosmetic bronzer washing away — not your actual tan. The bronzer was doing its job as a colour guide during application and development, and now that the DHA has had time to react with your skin, the bronzer’s job is done.
It’s completely normal for the rinse water to be brown, golden, or even slightly dark. Some people see a lot of color coming off and panic, thinking their tan is disappearing. It’s not. Your DHA-developed colour is in your skin cells, not sitting on top of them. The bronzer was always going to wash off.
Rapid/Express Spray Tans
Rapid solutions are made by blending and preparing the ingredients so that the amino acids in your skin interact with the DHA faster than with a standard tan. Does this mean that you will tan quicker? No, it means that you do not need as long of an exposure to become tanned. Think of it as the same way that we tan naturally. We need to stay out for less time in strong sunlight (rapid tans) to get the same tan that we achieve by staying out all day in weaker sunlight (standard tans).
Will my rapid tan last as long as a standard tan?A rapid tan should last just as long as a standard tan. There should not be anything that you have to do to prepare for a rapid tan that you did not have to do to prepare for a standard tan.
Will my rapid tan last as long as a standard tan?A rapid tan should last just as long as a standard tan. There should not be anything that you have to do to prepare for a rapid tan that you did not have to do to prepare for a standard tan.
Common first timer concerns
Will I look orange?
Not with a professional spray tan using quality solution. The orange tans of the past were caused by low-quality DHA and poor formulation. Modern professional solutions use high-grade DHA with colour-correcting undertones (olive or violet) that produce natural golden, bronzy, or chocolate-brown results — never orange.
Will it look fake?
A professionally applied spray tan matched to your skin type and undertones looks natural. The key is having an artist who takes the time to assess your skin and choose the right solution rather than applying a one-size-fits-all formula.
Will it stain my sheets?
During the development phase, cosmetic bronzer can transfer to light-coloured fabrics. This is temporary and washes out, but using dark sheets or laying a dark towel on your pillow on the first night is a smart precaution.
How long will it last?
A professional spray tan lasts 7 to 10 days with proper aftercare. Moisturising daily, using sulfate-free body wash, and avoiding chlorine, hot tubs, and exfoliating products will maximise your tan’s lifespan. Your skin naturally sheds its outermost layer about every 28 days, and the tan fades gradually as those cells turn over.
Avoid These Tan KillersSome activities and products will fade your spray tan faster than anything else:
Chlorinated pools and spas: Chlorine is a powerful oxidizer that breaks down DHA-stained cells rapidly. Even one long pool session can fade your tan significantly.Long, hot baths: Extended soaking softens and lifts the top layer of skin. Showers only for the first week. Exfoliating products: Scrubs, loofahs, AHA/BHA products, retinol — anything designed to remove dead skin cells will remove your tan along with them. Tight, rubbing clothing: Areas where clothing creates constant friction (waistbands, bra straps, sock lines) will fade faster. Loose-fitting clothes help the tan last evenly. Heavy exercise: Sweat and friction from workouts fade specific areas — underarms, waistline, inner thighs — faster than the rest of your body. If you work out regularly, expect those areas to need touch-up or to fade first.
Chlorinated pools and spas: Chlorine is a powerful oxidizer that breaks down DHA-stained cells rapidly. Even one long pool session can fade your tan significantly.Long, hot baths: Extended soaking softens and lifts the top layer of skin. Showers only for the first week. Exfoliating products: Scrubs, loofahs, AHA/BHA products, retinol — anything designed to remove dead skin cells will remove your tan along with them. Tight, rubbing clothing: Areas where clothing creates constant friction (waistbands, bra straps, sock lines) will fade faster. Loose-fitting clothes help the tan last evenly. Heavy exercise: Sweat and friction from workouts fade specific areas — underarms, waistline, inner thighs — faster than the rest of your body. If you work out regularly, expect those areas to need touch-up or to fade first.
Special Aftercare Situations
Working Out with a Spray TanYou can work out with a spray tan — just not during the development window (the first 8–24 hours). After that, exercise is fine, but understand that sweat and friction will accelerate fading in certain areas. Consider wearing moisture-wicking fabrics that reduce skin-on-skin friction, showering promptly after exercise, and moisturising after your post-workout shower.
Swimming with a Spray TanIf you must swim, know that chlorine and saltwater will both fade your tan faster. Apply a water-resistant moisturiser before swimming to create a partial barrier, and rinse off promptly afterward. But honestly, if your spray tan is for a specific event or occasion, try to avoid swimming until after the event.
Shaving with a Spray TanWait at least 24 hours after your spray tan to shave. When you do shave, use a sharp razor, shave with the grain, use a gentle shaving cream, and moisturise immediately after. Shaving is a form of exfoliation, so it will remove some colour — but careful technique minimises the impact.
Products That Help vs Products That HurtProducts that help: Sulfate-free body wash, spray-tan-safe moisturiser, gentle hydrating lotion, water-based gradual tanner (for extending colour in the final days).
Products that hurt: Sulfate-based soaps and body washes, exfoliating scrubs, AHA/BHA acids, retinol or retinoid products, rubbing alcohol or astringents, chemical hair removal creams, products with mineral oil.
The Bottom LineSpray tan aftercare comes down to three principles: keep your skin hydrated, avoid anything that exfoliates or strips, and be gentle. Follow those guidelines, and you’ll get a solid 7 to 10 days of beautiful, even colour from every spray tan session. The effort is minimal — a few small habit changes — but the impact on your results is dramatic.
Swimming with a Spray TanIf you must swim, know that chlorine and saltwater will both fade your tan faster. Apply a water-resistant moisturiser before swimming to create a partial barrier, and rinse off promptly afterward. But honestly, if your spray tan is for a specific event or occasion, try to avoid swimming until after the event.
Shaving with a Spray TanWait at least 24 hours after your spray tan to shave. When you do shave, use a sharp razor, shave with the grain, use a gentle shaving cream, and moisturise immediately after. Shaving is a form of exfoliation, so it will remove some colour — but careful technique minimises the impact.
Products That Help vs Products That HurtProducts that help: Sulfate-free body wash, spray-tan-safe moisturiser, gentle hydrating lotion, water-based gradual tanner (for extending colour in the final days).
Products that hurt: Sulfate-based soaps and body washes, exfoliating scrubs, AHA/BHA acids, retinol or retinoid products, rubbing alcohol or astringents, chemical hair removal creams, products with mineral oil.
The Bottom LineSpray tan aftercare comes down to three principles: keep your skin hydrated, avoid anything that exfoliates or strips, and be gentle. Follow those guidelines, and you’ll get a solid 7 to 10 days of beautiful, even colour from every spray tan session. The effort is minimal — a few small habit changes — but the impact on your results is dramatic.
Brisbane Spray Tans
Choose from Bronzer Free, 1 Hour Rapid, 2 Hour Express, 8 Hr Classic or one of our fabulous Organic Tans
Over 20 Years spray tanning experience