A spray tan is a professional sunless tanning service that gives your skin a natural-looking bronze glow without UV exposure. At Let’s Glow Girls PSU in State College, PA, we custom-match solutions to your skin tone for flawless, streak-free results.

How do I prepare for my spray tan?

For best results, exfoliate and shave 24 hours before your appointment. Arrive with clean, dry skin—no lotion, makeup, deodorant, or oils. Proper spray tan prep helps your tan apply evenly and last longer.

What should I wear to my spray tan appointment?

Wear loose, dark clothing such as sweatpants, oversized t-shirts, or flowy dresses. Avoid tight clothing or bras immediately after your spray tan to prevent rubbing or streaking.

How long does a spray tan last?

A professional spray tan typically lasts 7–10 days, depending on skin prep, aftercare, and lifestyle. Moisturizing daily and avoiding exfoliation helps extend the life of your glow.

How soon can I shower after a spray tan?

Shower timing depends on the solution used. Standard spray tans typically rinse after 8–12 hours, while rapid tans rinse after 1–4 hours. Your technician will tell you the best rinse time for your specific tan.

Will a spray tan turn me orange?

No. We use professional spray tan solutions and custom color matching to create a natural, photo-safe glow—never orange or streaky.

Is spray tanning safe?

Yes. Spray tanning is a safe alternative to UV tanning. Our solutions are professionally formulated and skin-safe. If you have sensitive skin or concerns, we can customize your service.

Is a spray tan safe for brides and wedding photos?

Yes! We specialize in bridal spray tans in State College and Central PA with photo-safe, even results. With the right prep and aftercare, your glow will look flawless in photos.

Do you offer mobile spray tanning?

Yes! We offer mobile spray tanning in State College, near Penn State, and throughout Central PA for bridal parties, sororities, events, and group bookings.

Will my spray tan rub off on clothes or sheets?

Before your first rinse, some cosmetic bronzer may transfer (this is normal and washes out). After you rinse, your spray tan is set and is less likely to transfer when aftercare instructions are followed.

How do I book a spray tan in State College, PA?

You can book online through our scheduling link. We offer in-studio spray tanning and mobile spray tanning near Penn State University and throughout Central Pennsylvania.

Do you offer spray tans for Penn State students?

Yes! We proudly serve Penn State students with quick, convenient spray tanning for formals, game days, recruitment, vacations, and special events.

Still have questions about spray tanning?

We’re happy to help! Contact us anytime with questions about spray tanning, prep, aftercare, or booking in State College, PA.

5 Steps How to Prepare for Your Spray Tan and Keep Your Glow (Easy Guide for First-Timers)

info5868038
Jul 4
4 min read

Hey there, Glow Girl! ✨

So, you’ve finally decided to ditch the "Ghost of Christmas Past" look and level up to a sun-kissed queen? We love that for you! Whether you’re getting ready for a Penn State formal, a downtown birthday bash, or just want that "I just spent a week in Tulum" vibe without the UV damage, a custom spray tan is your new best friend.

But listen, babe, if you want that ridiculously flawless, airbrushed finish, you can’t just walk in off the street with three layers of deodorant and yesterday’s moisturizer on. A perfect glow is 50% our magic and 50% your prep! 💅

If you’re wondering how to prepare for spray tan sessions like a pro, don’t stress. Your BFFs at Let’s Glow Girls PSU have put together the ultimate "Glow-Up Blueprint" so you can walk out of our State College studio feeling like a literal masterpiece. 🎨✨

🚫 The "Why" Behind the Prep

Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk logic. Why does prep matter? Your skin is like a canvas. If the canvas is bumpy, oily, or covered in old "art" (aka old tan), the new masterpiece isn't going to stick. Proper prep ensures the DHA (the active tanning ingredient) absorbs evenly and stays put for 7-10 days instead of flaking off by Tuesday.

Now, let’s get into the ritual! 👇

Step 1: The "Clean Slate" Exfoliation 🧼

This is the most important step in your how to prepare for spray tan journey. Period.

You need to shed those dead skin cells to reveal a fresh, smooth surface. ✨ The Ritual: 24 to 48 hours before your appointment, give your body a deep scrub. Focus on the "thirsty" spots: elbows, knees, ankles, and the tops of your feet.

💖 Pro Tip: Use an exfoliating mitt or a grit-based scrub that doesn't leave an oily residue. If your skin feels "greasy" after your shower, the tan won't soak in!

Cozy, sunlit beauty treatment room featuring a padded bed with white linens, the perfect place for your glow-up at Let’s Glow Girls PSU.

Step 2: Handle Your Hair Removal 🪒

We want those legs smooth, but timing is everything, queen.

If you shave or wax right before your appointment, the tanning solution can settle into your open pores, leading to what we call "strawberry legs" (tiny dark dots). Not the vibe.

✨ The Rule:

Waxing: Do this at least 48 hours before.
Shaving: Do this 24 hours before.

This gives your pores time to close and your skin time to calm down from any irritation. 🚫 No last-minute shaving in the shower an hour before you see us!

Step 3: The "Birthday Suit" Shower 🚿

On the day of your appointment, you need to be as "clean girl" as possible. This means no barriers between your skin and our premium tanning solution.

The "BIG NO" List (Do NOT apply these on the day of):

🚫 Lotion/Body Oil: These act as a shield and will make your tan look patchy.
🚫 Deodorant: This is the #1 cause of "green armpits." The aluminum reacts with the tan!
🚫 Perfume: Alcohol in perfume can dry out the tan instantly.
🚫 Makeup: If you’re getting your face tanned, come with a fresh, bare face.

Wait, what if I'm coming straight from class at PSU? We totally get it! If you’re rushing from the Hub to our studio, just ask us for a pH-balancing wipe when you arrive. We've got you covered, babe. 💖

Step 4: Choose Your "Tan-Friendly" Outfit 👗

What you wear after the appointment is just as important as the tan itself.

Since your tan needs time to develop (and the bronzer can transfer), you want to avoid anything tight. ❌ Forget: Leggings, jeans, sports bras, or tight socks. ✅ Think: Oversized dark tees, baggy joggers, and flip-flops.

Basically, dress like you’re ready for a cozy movie night on the couch. The looser, the better! This prevents the solution from rubbing off in weird places (like under your bra straps or around your waist).

A beauty technician expertly applies a customized sunless spray tan to a client at Let’s Glow Girls PSU, ensuring even, natural color.

Step 5: The "Wait & Hydrate" Aftercare 💦

You’ve done the work, you’ve got the glow, now let’s make it last!

Depending on the solution we pick for you (Standard or Express), you’ll need to wait anywhere from 2 to 12 hours before your first rinse.

The Aftercare Ritual:

The First Rinse: Use lukewarm water ONLY. No soap, no loofahs. You’ll see some brown water, don't panic! That’s just the cosmetic bronzer washing off. Your real tan is tucked safely underneath.
Pat, Don't Rub: When you get out of the shower, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Rubbing is essentially exfoliation, and we want to keep that color locked in!
Moisturize Like a Boss: Starting the day after your tan, moisturize twice a day. Use an oil-free, scent-free lotion. Hydrated skin holds onto color way longer than dry skin.

State College FAQ: The "First-Timer" Edition 🎓

"Will I turn orange?" Chef’s kiss absolutely not! We use high-quality, professional-grade solutions that are customized to your specific skin tone. You'll look sun-kissed, not carrot-kissed.

"Can I go to the gym after?" 🚫 BIG NO. You need to avoid sweating for at least 8-12 hours (unless you got our Express tan). Sweat is liquid, and liquid creates streaks. Take a rest day, queen!

"How long will it last?" If you follow our prep and aftercare steps, your glow should stay luminous for 7-10 days.

Two women with glowing, sun-kissed skin relax poolside in swimsuits, radiating confidence and carefree summer vibes.

Ready to Get Your Glow On? ✨

Knowing how to prepare for spray tan appointments is the secret sauce to looking like a golden goddess. At Let’s Glow Girls PSU, we’re obsessed with making sure you leave our studio feeling like the most confident version of yourself.

Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we’ll walk you through every step of the process. Ready to book your transformation?

👉 Click here to Book Your Custom Glow Now!

We can’t wait to see you at the studio, babe! Stay glowing! 💖💅✨

LET'S GLOW GIRLS PSU