Who doesn't want to make the most of their spray tan? ✨

Whether you're prepping for a vacation, wedding, special event, or just want that perfectly bronzed glow, a little preparation can make a huge difference in how your spray tan develops, looks and lasts.

Take notes on these 10 tips for the most flawless spray tan possible.

1. Exfoliate — and do it properly
A flawless spray tan starts with a clean, smooth canvas. Exfoliate your entire body the day or two before your appointment, paying extra attention to dry areas like your elbows, knees, ankles, neck and hands. Avoid heavily oil-based scrubs, as oils can leave a barrier on the skin. We recommend our Exfoliating Mitt.

2. Do All Hair Removal 24–48 Hours Before
Shaving, waxing and other hair-removal methods should be done at least 24 hours before your spray tan. Doing it immediately before your appointment can irritate the skin and cause your tan to develop unevenly.

3. Arrive With Nothing on Your Skin
On the day of your appointment, keep your skin completely clean and product-free. Skip deodorant, perfume, lotion, body creams and makeup on areas being sprayed. These products can create a barrier between your skin and the solution.

4. Moisturize Leading Up to Your Appointment
Hydrated skin holds a spray tan beautifully. Moisturize regularly in the days leading up to your appointment, but skip moisturizer on the day of your tan. Your goal is hydrated skin without any product sitting on the surface when you get sprayed.

5. Get Your Nails Done BEFORE Your Tan
Planning a manicure or pedicure? Do it before your spray tan whenever possible. Nail polish remover, acetone and other products used during a nail appointment can interfere with or even worse, remove your fresh tan.

6. Skip the Body Oils
Body oils can create a barrier on the skin and prevent your spray tan from developing evenly. If you're a body-oil lover, pause the oils before your appointment and save them for later on.

7. Avoid Dove Products Before Your Tan
Some Dove body washes and moisturizers can leave a moisturizing film on the skin. For the best spray-tan results, use a simple, gentle cleanser before your appointment and avoid heavily moisturizing products immediately beforehand.

8. Have Loose, Dark Clothing Ready
After your spray tan, comfort is key. Have loose-fitting, dark clothing ready to wear after your appointment. Think oversized sweats, loose dresses, baggy pajamas and easy slip-on shoes. Avoid tight waistbands, bras, socks and anything that could rub against your developing tan.

9. Pause Your Retinol & Active Skincare Products
Retinol and other exfoliating/active skincare ingredients can speed up skin cell turnover and cause your tan to fade unevenly. If you're using retinol, AHAs, BHAs or other exfoliating treatments, give your skin a break before your spray tan. Follow your skincare professional's recommendations for how long to pause your specific products.

10. Plan Accordingly 
Make your spray tan the last step of your beauty routine. Going on vacation? Getting ready for a wedding? Have a big event coming up? Schedule your: Hair → Nails → Waxing/Shaving → Massage → Spray Tan. Your spray tan should be the finishing touch.