The Ultimate Guide on What to Wear While Getting a Spray Tan: Achieve Your Glow with Confidence

Getting a spray tan can be a fantastic way to achieve that sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of sun exposure or tanning beds. However, one often overlooked aspect of the spray tanning process is what to wear during your appointment. The right clothing can greatly influence both your tanning results and the overall experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through what to wear while getting a spray tan, including essential tips and tricks. We’ll cover everything from fabrics to fit, as well as the best practices before, during, and after your appointment. Whether you’re a first-time tanner or a seasoned pro, this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need for a successful spray tanning experience.

Why Your Clothing Matters

Choosing the right clothing for your spray tan appointment is crucial for multiple reasons:
1. Avoiding Stains: Spray tans can stain clothing. Selecting the right materials and styles can help avoid this issue.
2. Ensuring Even Application: Your outfit choices can help the technician achieve an even and flawless tan all over your body.
3. Comfort and Confidence: Wearing comfortable attire can make you feel more relaxed during the process, leading to a better experience overall.

Pre-Tan Preparations

Before we dive into what to wear, let’s touch on some important pre-tan preparations.

1. Exfoliate

In the days leading up to your spray tan, make sure to exfoliate your skin. This helps remove dead skin cells, ensuring a smooth canvas. Ideal options for exfoliation include body scrubs or exfoliating gloves.

2. Shave or Wax

If you’re planning to shave or wax, do it at least 24 hours before your appointment. This allows your skin to calm down and helps avoid irritation.

3. Hydration

Keep your skin moisturized leading up to your tan, but avoid applying lotions, oils, or deodorants on the day of the appointment as these can create a barrier between your skin and the tanning solution.

The Best Outfits for a Spray Tan

Now that we’re prepped and ready to go, let’s discuss what to wear. The key is to choose clothing that won’t interfere with your tanning experience and will keep you comfortable.

1. Loose-Fitting Clothing

Opt for loose-fitting clothing to ensure you won’t rub against your tan. Tight clothing can cause friction and lead to uneven areas. Here are a few options:
Tank Tops: A loose tank top will keep your upper body free while still providing some coverage.
Baggy Pants or Shorts: Choose bottoms that are a size larger than you typically wear. This ensures they won’t stick or rub against your skin.
Dresses: A loose sundress can be a great option for women. It offers coverage without being too tight.

2. Dark Colors

Choose darker colors to minimize the risk of stains from the tanning solution. Dark clothing will also minimize the visibility of any potential drips.
Black or Navy: Black is usually the safest bet due to its ability to hide stains and its timeless style.
Avoid White: Stay away from white and light-colored clothing as these can easily get stained.

3. Material Matters

Your choice of fabric is crucial. Certain materials can absorb the tanning solution and leave you with unwanted marks. Here’s what to look for:
Cotton: Breathable and easy to clean, cotton is a great option.
Synthetic Fabrics: Materials like polyester can also work but ensure they are loose and allow air circulation.

4. Swimwear or Underwear Options

Some individuals prefer to wear a bathing suit or designated tanning underwear to their appointments:
Bikini or Swimsuit: If you’re comfortable, wearing a bikini can mean more skin exposure for an even tan.
Specialty Tanning Underwear: There are options available specifically designed for tanning that minimize tan lines.

5. Footwear Tips

Your choice of footwear can also influence your spray tan experience:
Flip-flops or Sandals: These will keep your feet free and avoid any marks from shoes.
Avoid Closed-Toe Shoes: Steer clear of sneakers or boots as these may rub against your freshly tanned skin.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Here’s a checklist of essentials to bring along to ensure a smooth tanning session:
1. Old Towels: Bring an old towel to sit on in the salon to protect furniture and ensure you don’t transfer any tan to your car seats.
2. Change of Clothes: Pack an outfit that you can wear after the session, preferably loose and dark, so you won’t disturb your tan.
3. Water or Refreshments: Staying hydrated is important, and having a drink on hand can help ease any pre-tan anxieties.
4. Plastic Hair Cap: If you have longer hair, a plastic hair cap can prevent the tanning solution from sticking to your hair.

Aftercare Tips for Your Spray Tan

Once your appointment is done, proper care is essential for maintaining that beautiful glow. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Wait to Shower

Follow your technician’s instructions, but generally, it’s advised to wait at least 8-12 hours before showering. This ensures the tan has fully developed.

2. Moisturize Daily

After your first shower, keeping your skin hydrated is crucial. Look for paraben-free moisturizers that won’t strip the color.

3. Avoid Exfoliation

For the first week after your tan, avoid exfoliating products. This protects your tan and helps it last longer.

4. Use Mild Soap

Choose gentle, pH-balanced soaps that won’t disrupt your tan.

5. Limit Pool and Ocean Exposure

Chlorine and saltwater can fade your tan. Try to minimize exposure to these elements for the best results.

Final Thoughts: Wear Confidence

In summary, what you wear while getting a spray tan significantly impacts the outcome of your tanning experience. By opting for loose, dark clothing made of breathable fabrics, choosing appropriate footwear, and properly preparing and caring for your skin, you can ensure a successful tan that leaves you glowing and confident.
With the tips and guidelines outlined in this blog post, you’ll not only look fantastic but feel incredible as well. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your tanning technician with any specific questions regarding attire or the tanning process to ensure you achieve that enviable sun-kissed glow!
Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge you need, it’s time to step into that tanning booth and embrace your beautifully bronzed self! Happy tanning!