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.

Your Ultimate Spray Tan Care Guide: Essential Aftercare Tips for Spray Tanning

Jan 13
4 min read

You just stepped out of your spray tan session, glowing like a golden goddess. But wait! The magic doesn’t stop there. How you care for your tan afterward can make all the difference between a streaky, patchy mess and a flawless, sun-kissed glow that lasts. I’m here to walk you through the spray tan care guide you need to keep that bronze beauty shining bright.

Let’s dive into the secrets that will keep your tan looking fresh, natural, and radiant for days. Ready? Let’s glow!

Why Spray Tan Care Guide Matters More Than You Think

Spray tanning is an art. But like any masterpiece, it needs the right care to stay perfect. Your skin is like a canvas, and the tan is the paint. Without proper aftercare, that paint can fade unevenly or peel off too soon.

Here’s the deal: spray tans don’t actually color your skin. They react with the amino acids in your skin’s surface to create that gorgeous bronze. So, your skin’s condition and how you treat it afterward directly affect the outcome.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t wash a freshly painted wall with harsh chemicals, right? Same goes for your tan. You want to nurture it, protect it, and let it develop fully.

Pro tip: Avoid anything that strips your skin’s natural oils or causes excessive exfoliation right after your session. Your tan needs time to set and settle.

Close-up view of a spray tanning booth with mist in the air — Spray tanning booth in action

How to Prep Before Your Spray Tan Session

Before we get into aftercare, let’s talk prep. The better you prep, the better your tan will look and last. Here’s what you should do:

Exfoliate thoroughly the day before. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells. This creates a smooth surface for the tan to cling to.
Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your appointment. Freshly shaved skin can be sensitive and cause uneven color.
Avoid heavy lotions or oils on the day of your tan. These create a barrier that can block the spray.
Wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment. Tight clothes can rub off the tan, and dark colors hide any potential transfer.

Prepping right sets the stage for a flawless finish. It’s like laying the foundation for a skyscraper - solid and smooth.

What is the Best Aftercare for a Spray Tan?

Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for - the best aftercare for a spray tan. This is where you lock in that glow and keep it looking fresh.

1. Wait Before You Shower

Patience is your best friend here. Most spray tans need at least 6-8 hours to fully develop. If you shower too soon, you risk washing away the color before it sets.

2. Use Lukewarm Water

When you do shower, keep the water temperature moderate. Hot water can dry out your skin and cause your tan to fade faster.

3. Skip the Soap (or Use Gentle Ones)

Harsh soaps and body washes strip your skin of oils and color. Opt for sulfate-free, moisturizing cleansers instead.

4. Pat Dry, Don’t Rub

After your shower, gently pat your skin dry with a towel. Rubbing can cause your tan to flake or fade unevenly.

5. Moisturize Religiously

Hydration is key. Use a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer daily to keep your skin soft and your tan vibrant. Dry skin = patchy tan.

6. Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater

Swimming pools and the ocean are fun, but chlorine and salt can be brutal on your tan. If you’re planning a dip, try to wait until your tan has fully developed and start to fade naturally.

7. Wear Loose Clothing

Tight clothes can rub off your tan, especially in the first 24 hours. Choose loose, breathable fabrics to protect your glow.

8. Avoid Exfoliating

No scrubs, loofahs, or harsh exfoliants until your tan fades naturally. Let your skin shed the color gently.

Following these steps will help you maintain a flawless, streak-free tan that turns heads.

Eye-level view of a bottle of moisturizer on a bathroom counter — Moisturizer bottle ready for spray tan aftercare

Common Mistakes to Avoid After Your Spray Tan

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common pitfalls to dodge:

Jumping in the shower too soon. I get it, you want to rinse off. But hold tight! Let the tan develop.
Using harsh soaps or exfoliants. These are tan killers.
Skipping moisturizer. Dry skin is the enemy of a long-lasting tan.
Wearing tight or dark clothing immediately after. This can cause streaks or transfer.
Sweating excessively. Intense workouts or hot environments can cause your tan to fade unevenly.

Avoid these traps, and your tan will thank you.

How to Extend Your Spray Tan Glow

Want your tan to last longer? Here’s how to stretch that golden glow:

Moisturize twice a day. Keep your skin hydrated morning and night.
Use a tan extender lotion. These products are designed to nourish your skin and prolong your color.
Avoid long, hot baths or showers. Stick to quick, lukewarm rinses.
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing. Gentle care preserves your tan.
Limit exposure to chlorine and saltwater. When you do swim, rinse off immediately afterward.

With these tips, you can enjoy your sunless tan for up to 10 days or more.

Why Choose Professional Spray Tanning in State College?

If you’re in State College, you deserve the best. That’s where Let’s Glow Girls PSU comes in. We specialize in delivering flawless, natural-looking tans that make you feel confident and radiant. Whether you visit our studio or book a mobile session, we bring the glow to you.

Our expert technicians use top-quality products and tailor each tan to your skin tone and preferences. Plus, we provide personalized aftercare advice to keep your tan looking perfect.

Ready to glow like never before? Check out our spray tan aftercare tips and book your session today!

Keep That Glow Going Strong

Your spray tan is your secret weapon for a radiant, sun-kissed look without the sun damage. Treat it right, and it will reward you with a flawless finish that turns heads and boosts your confidence.

Remember, the key is in the care - from prepping your skin to moisturizing daily and avoiding harsh treatments. Follow this spray tan care guide, and you’ll be glowing long after your session ends.

So go ahead - flaunt that bronze beauty. You earned it!

Ready to shine? Your perfect tan awaits.

Let's Glow Girls