FAQ | madeintheshade

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I book my tan?

Book your spray tan for about 24-48 hours before your special occasion. Timing is important, having a day between getting a spray tan and getting ready for a function will give you enough time to take care of any unlikely problems that might arise.

What should I do to get ready for my tan?

The most crucial step – exfoliate! If you skip this step or do not exfoliate well, you might not get a good tan and when it starts to fade it is likely to come off in patches. Be very, very thorough in places where there is a buildup of dead skin like elbows, knees and ankles.
If you plan on shaving or waxing (eyebrows included), be sure to do this prior to getting your spray tan. When you shave or wax it can remove a layer of your skin which will make your spray tan lighten faster.
On the day of your spray tan take a shower using a soap or body wash that does not contain a lot of moisturizers. Do not apply anything to your skin like moisturizers, body butters or even deodorant or makeup. Those things have a tendency to block spray tanning solution from reaching your skin and you can finish with lighter patches. Some deodorants can also react with spray tanning solution and turn your underarms green! If you need to – carry some wet towelettes and wipe your underarms prior to your tan. That can also work for make up if you truly, positively have to wear some before you get your tan.

What should I wear to get a tan?

Be sure to wear or bring loose fitting clothing to wear after your appointment. Baggy t shirt, loose shorts, sweat pants or loose dresses work best. Be sure to bring some flip flops too! Women- No bra is preferred or something strapless (like a bandeau).
Do not wear any jewelry the day of your tan or to your appointment.
While being sprayed wear what you feel comfortable in, while keeping in mind your style choices for the next week. I.E if you are wearing something strapless you will want to wear something strapless while being sprayed. The technicians have seen it all so don’t worry about us, most people just wear some type of bottom!
Have your hair pulled up and out of your face. A pony tail holder and headband works great!
Please note that the solution will be sprayed onto whatever you are wearing, dark colors are recommended. The solution should wash out but we cannot make any guarantees.

What do I do after my tan?

•Allow your tan to sit for 9-12 hours. It must be given time to activate your skins pigment creating the brown color. During This Time Do Not: moisturize, shower, take a bath, sweat heavily, go swimming, or wear tight clothes.
•Wait 9-12 hours to take your first shower, for best results wait until the next day. By doing so you will allow the tan to fully develop, when you wake up the next morning you will be much darker. This is completely normal!
•When you take your first shower allow all of the bronzer to rinse off completely or until the water runs clear. “Spot clean” rather than lathering up your entire body. Also try to minimize your time standing in the water. When drying pat dry DO NOT RUB!
•MOISTURIZE!! Before your spray on tan, you exfoliated, so the layer of dead skin cells is flat and shallow. Then you had your tan, which was developed in the dead skin layer. After your tan you have to guard it from becoming dry and rubbing off. The best way to do it is to moisturize it morning and night. (You start after you take your first shower.) It means, dead skin cells will be moist, and stay “plastered” to your body. Moisturizing also helps the tan fade evenly. Drugstore moisturizers are not the best or even ones from stores in the mall. You really need to check ALL the ingredients. I recommend using a lotion made specifically for spray tanning. These will not have drying alcohols as the store brands do and they contain many hydrating properties. However lotion is better than no lotion!
•Avoid things that will exfoliate your skin excessively. How about a hot, luxurious bath after your spray on tan? I don’t think so! That will make your skin exfoliate faster, as will rolling in the sand on the beach. A short swim in the sea will not take much off however, but a swim in the chlorinated pool will. (Chlorine will not exfoliate the tan, it will bleach it).
•Try to minimize time of shaving as this is also a form of exfoliation. If you must use a new, sharp razor.
•Use gentle shower products. Some soaps are too harsh, using them can take tan off in patches. If you have to use the soap, use good quality ones that moisturize. Better still; a gentle shower gel will be much better for your spray tanned skin.

How long will my tan last?

It will last anywhere from 5-9 days. Depending on how diligently you follow post tan instructions and moisturizing. Remember a spray tan is on the outer layer of the skin, so anything you do to cause exfoliation will fade the tan quicker. It is imperative that you moisturize at least 2x a day and avoid hot baths, pools and hot tubs.

Will it protect me from getting a sunburn?

If you go out in the sun be sure to wear sunscreen, a spray tan does not protect you against UV rays and you will still burn!