The holidays are all about feeling your best—who doesn’t want a little extra confidence when the parties start rolling in? Family dinners, office shindigs, New Year’s countdowns… It’s nice to show up with that healthy, sun-kissed glow. Spray tans make it easy to achieve that look without sun damage, but keeping your tan fresh through all the festivities requires a bit of know-how.
Let’s start before you even walk into the clinic.
Pre-Tan Preparation: Setting the Stage
Prepping your skin makes all the difference. Exfoliate in the shower with a gentle scrub or loofah to sweep away dead skin cells—just skip anything rough that might leave your skin red or irritated. If you plan to shave or wax, be cautious. Do it at least a day before your appointment so your skin has time to settle. And on tanning day, skip the lotion and oils. They’ll just block the tan from soaking in.
During the Tan: Let the Color Set
During your spray tan session, listen to your beautician and follow their timing advice. Every formula’s a little different. Afterward, throw on loose, dark clothes—tight or light things can rub off your color or stain. And for the next several hours, keep your skin dry. No showers, no sweating, no rain-dancing. Water messes with the color while it’s settling.
Post-Tan Care: Maintaining That Holiday Glow
Now, once your tan has developed, daily care is what keeps that glow going. Moisturize your skin every day with a gentle, fragrance-free product. Hydrated skin holds onto color better and fades evenly. When you shower, keep it short and lukewarm—hot water fades the tan faster. And when you towel off, just pat, don’t rub.
Other Tips to Extend the Life of Your Spray Tan
If you’re planning to hit the gym or sneak in a beach trip, keep a few things in mind. Always wear sunscreen before you step outside the door—your spray tan won’t protect you from UV rays. Hold off on exfoliating until your tan starts to fade, and even then, use gentle exfoliation to avoid blotches. And if you want to stretch your glow a little longer, grab a tan extender. These lotions help keep your color vibrant and your skin hydrated.
A little extra effort and your tan will survive every dinner, party, and photo op the holidays throw at you. Prep well, take care of your skin, and don’t be afraid to use a few tricks to lock in that color. Don’t let your tan fade before the ball drops—treat your skin well and keep that golden glow all season.
Ready to glow? Book your spray tan at Aesthetica Beauty & Wellness in Springdale, AR, and step into the holidays shining.
FAQs
- How long should I wait to shower after a spray tan?
It’s recommended to wait 4-8 hours before showering after a spray tan to allow the color to develop properly. - Can I exercise after getting a spray tan?
It’s best to avoid heavy sweating for at least 24 hours after your tan to ensure it sets evenly. - How can I make my spray tan last longer?
Regular moisturizing and avoiding long, hot showers can help extend the life of your spray tan.
Is it safe to get a spray tan during the holidays?
Yes, spray tanning is a safe alternative to tanning beds, providing a beautiful, natural-looking glow without UV exposure.
