How to Prep for a Flawless, Long-Lasting Glow
A beautiful spray tan doesn’t start in the studio—it starts with the way you prepare your skin beforehand. At Model Behavior, our custom coffee-based DHA solution is designed to give you a smooth, natural-looking bronze, but your results depend heavily on how well your skin is prepped. Follow these steps to ensure your tan develops evenly, lasts longer, and fades beautifully.
1. Exfoliate 24–48 Hours Before Your Appointment
Exfoliating removes dead skin cells and old product buildup so the tanning solution applies evenly. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt, paying extra attention to dry areas like:
• elbows
• knees
• ankles
• handsAvoid harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliants the same day as your appointment—this can make the skin too sensitive and uneven.
2. Complete Hair Removal Ahead of Time
Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your spray tan. This gives your skin time to calm and prevents open pores from holding extra pigment.
Avoid shaving on the same day as your appointment, which can create dark “dotting” or uneven absorption.
3. Keep Skin Clean and Product-Free
Arrive with clean, dry skin—no lotions, oils, deodorant, perfume, or heavy skincare.
These products create a barrier and prevent the tanning solution from binding properly to your skin.
If you’re coming from work or the gym, do a quick rinse before arriving. Skip bar soaps with moisturizing films (especially Dove), as they leave residue behind.
4. Avoid Heavy Skincare the Week Before
To protect your tan’s longevity and evenness, avoid:
• retinol
• AHAs/BHAs
• oil-based lotions
• resurfacing masks
• body oils
These ingredients thin the skin’s surface layer and cause uneven fading after your tan.
5. Choose the Right Outfit for Your Appointment
Wear loose, dark clothing and sandals or slides.
Avoid:
• leggings
• sports bras
• tight waistbands
• long sleeves that may rub your arms
Anything that touches or compresses the skin can affect how the tan develops in the first few hours.
6. Schedule Other Appointments First
If you plan to do any of the following, book them before your spray tan:
• sugaring or waxing
• pedicures
• manicures
• massages
• brows or lash appointments
• facials
Spray tans should be your final appointment of the day so the skin remains undisturbed.
7. Hydrate Smartly
Well-hydrated skin holds color longer—but lotion the day of your appointment is a no-go.
Hydrate consistently in the days leading up, then stop applying moisturizers the morning of your tan.
Ready for Your Glow?
Once you’re fully prepped, head to your appointment at Model Behavior for a flawless, natural bronze.
Looking for what to do after your tan? The Post-Tan Guide is coming next.
