Your guide
Spray Tan Preparation & Aftercare
A little preparation and some simple aftercare make a big difference to how your tan looks and how long it lasts. Here's everything I'd tell you in person. If you have any questions at all, just message me.
What To Expect
Your spray tan appointment, step by step
Choose studio or home
Decide whether you'd like to visit my private Kings Langley studio or have me come to you, then get in touch with your preferred date and time.
Preparation
The night before, exfoliate and remove any old tan so the new colour applies evenly (see the full preparation checklist below).
Arrival
Arrive at the studio, or I'll come to your home with a portable pop-up tent and everything needed. Either way, just a private, well-lit space is all that's required.
Spray tan
The application itself takes around 15–20 minutes, working carefully around hands, feet, and joints for a natural, streak-free finish.
Development time
The colour needs time to develop before your first rinse, anywhere from 1 to 8 hours depending on the shade you've chosen.
First shower
A quick rinse in lukewarm water to remove the cosmetic guide colour, no soap or shower gel at this stage.
Aftercare
From the next day, normal showering and daily moisturising will keep your tan looking even as it gradually fades (full guide below).
Get Ready
Spray Tan Preparation Checklist
Exfoliate
Exfoliate your whole body the night before, paying extra attention to elbows, knees, and ankles where skin is drier.
Shave or wax
Do any shaving or waxing at least 24 hours beforehand so your pores have time to close before the tan is applied.
Skip the moisturiser
Come to your appointment with bare, product-free skin. Moisturiser, deodorant, and perfume can act as a barrier and cause uneven patches.
Wear loose, dark clothing
Choose something loose-fitting to travel home or move around in afterwards, so nothing rubs against your skin while the tan develops.
Remove makeup
Arrive with a clean face and no makeup. This includes lipstick, foundation, and body makeup, which can all interfere with development.
Remove jewellery
Take off rings, watches, and jewellery beforehand so the solution can develop evenly underneath without leaving pale marks.
Aftercare
Aftercare Guide
First shower
Rinse with lukewarm water only, no soap or shower gel, once your chosen development time has passed. You'll see the guide colour wash away, this is normal.
Moisturise daily
From the day after your tan, apply a fragrance-free, oil-free moisturiser at least once a day to keep skin hydrated and help the colour fade evenly.
Swimming and hot tubs
Chlorine speeds up fading, so where possible, save the pool or hot tub for later in the week if you want your tan to last as long as possible.
Exercise and sweating
Heavy sweating within the first 8–12 hours can affect development, so it's best to plan workouts for the following day.
Longevity
A Sienna X spray tan typically lasts 5–7 days, fading gradually as skin naturally renews itself, rather than wearing off in patches.
Extending the tan
Gentle exfoliation before your next appointment, along with regular moisturising in between, is the easiest way to keep colour looking fresh for longer.
Ready to book your spray tan?
Choose a studio or home appointment, or just ask me a question first. I'd love to help.