Deciding what to wear during a spray tan session is crucial—not only for your comfort but also to ensure the best results for your newly acquired tan. As you prepare for your appointment, understanding the impact of different types of clothing on the tanning solution and your skin is key. This blog post offers comprehensive advice on what to wear during and after your spray tan to maximize the life of your tan and avoid common pitfalls like visible tan lines or uneven coloring.
Pre-Tan: Preparing for Your Appointment
Day of Your Appointment: On the day of your spray tan, choosing the right clothing to wear to the tanning salon is vital. Loose-fitting clothing made from dark-colored fabrics is the best choice. Dark colors help to avoid visible stains from the cosmetic bronzers used in many tanning solutions, while loose garments ensure that the tan solution does not rub off immediately after application.
Options include a loose-fitting dress or a baggy shirt paired with long pants or yoga pants. Tight clothing, such as tight jeans or sports bras, should be avoided as they can rub against the tanning solution and lead to uneven tan lines. For footwear, flip flops or loose shoes are recommended to prevent any marks on your feet.
During the Tan: What to Wear in the Booth
Comfort and Coverage: The type of clothing you wear during your spray tan depends largely on your comfort level and the policy of the tanning salon. Many people opt to tan nude to avoid any visible tan lines, especially if they have a special event like wearing a strapless dress. However, if you’re not comfortable being completely nude, there are other options.
Disposable thongs, which are often provided by tanning salons, offer minimal coverage while avoiding lines. Women may choose to wear a strapless bra or bikini bottoms, depending on their preference and the areas they want tanned. For men, boxer shorts or swim trunks are common choices.
It’s a good idea to consult with your tan artist before your session to discuss what works best for your skin type and tan expectations. This color consultation ensures that you are both on the same page about the areas you want to tan and any concerns you might have.
Accessories to Avoid: During the spray tan session, avoid wearing jewelry, watches, or anything that might leave a mark on your skin. Hair nets are typically provided to protect your hair from the spray, and you might want to use lip balm to cover your lips.
Post-Tan: Aftercare and Clothing
First Hours After Your Tan: The first 8-12 hours after your tan are the most crucial for its development. During this time, it’s important to wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid smudging the developing tan. Avoid bras or any tight clothing that could leave marks. It’s best to continue wearing dark clothing during this period to avoid any stains from the initial bronzer used in the tanning solution.
First Shower: Your first shower, typically recommended after 8-12 hours (or as advised by your tanning professional), should be with warm water only—hot water can prematurely fade your tan. Use gentle body washes without harsh soaps or exfoliants that can strip the tan. After showering, pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, which can wear away the tan.
Ongoing Care: To extend the life of your spray tan, continue to wear loose-fitting clothes as much as possible over the next few days. Tight-fitting clothing can cause the tan to fade unevenly and reduce the life of your spray tan. Keeping the skin moisturized with a lotion that does not contain mineral oil or other ingredients that might break down the tan can also help prolong its appearance.
Long-Term Considerations
Repeat Sessions: For those who plan on regular spray tanning, investing in a few key pieces of clothing specifically for tanning can be beneficial. Choose items that are easy to put on and remove, and that you won’t mind getting a little bit of tanning solution on. Planning your clothing around your tanning sessions becomes easier with experience, and you’ll quickly learn what provides the best results for your lifestyle and your skin.
Conclusion
Choosing what to wear during and after your spray tan session can significantly impact the quality and longevity of your tan. By opting for loose-fitting, dark clothing, ensuring you have the right coverage during your tan, and taking care with your first shower and clothing choices afterwards, you can enjoy a beautiful, even, and long-lasting bronze glow. Remember, each tan session is a chance to perfect your approach, ensuring that each visit leaves you looking and feeling fantastic, ready to show off your perfect tan at your next big event or during your everyday activities.