BOOK NOW
Custom Airbrush Tanning
Custom Airbrush Tanning Chicago
312-787-8677

My Cart

Close
Image featuring a woman showcasing her perfect spray tan, wearing a vacation hat, while on holiday.

Top 5 Tips For Getting A Spray Tan For Your Vacation

Posted on By Casey

Planning for a vacation involves many aspects, from choosing the destination to packing the essentials. While you're busy getting ready for your trip, don't forget to plan out how you’re going to look your absolute best while you’re away. A spray tan can be a fantastic way to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. To ensure you achieve the best results, here are the top five tips for getting a spray tan for your vacation.

Top 5 Tips For Getting A Spray Tan For Your Vacation

1. Prepare Your Skin

Before getting a spray tan, it's crucial to prepare your skin properly. Start by exfoliating your body using a gentle scrub. This step removes dead skin cells and creates a smooth canvas for the spray tan application. Pay extra attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Additionally, shaving or waxing should be done at least 24 hours before your spray tan appointment to avoid any potential skin irritation or blotchy results. For more information, check out our Spray Tan Preparation & Care guide.

2. Choose a Suitable Shade

When getting a spray tan, it's important to choose a shade that suits your skin tone and desired outcome. Discuss your preferences with your airbrush artist and let them guide you in selecting the appropriate shade. If you're aiming for a natural-looking tan, opt for a shade that is only a few shades darker than your natural skin tone, and take into consideration if you plan on getting a natural suntan while you’re there (if so, most clients just want a little color so that they don’t feel quite so pale in a swimsuit on that first day). It's better to err on the side of caution and go with a lighter color to avoid an overly dark result.

3. Opt for a Trial Run

To avoid any surprises, consider scheduling a trial run before your vacation. This allows you to test the spray tan and see how it develops on your skin. By having a trial run, you can communicate your preferences to the artist and make any necessary adjustments for the final session before your vacation to ensure your color is just right when you take off.

4. Follow Aftercare Instructions

Once you've received your spray tan, it's crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your artist. These instructions are designed to help you maintain your tan and ensure it lasts as long as possible. They include things such as not showering for 8-12 hours, moisturizing daily after your first shower, and avoiding activities that may cause excessive sweating once your tan has developed. Another thing to keep in mind for your vacation - swimming with a spray tan is not recommended. Salt water and chlorine are incredibly drying on the skin and will cause the tan to fade quickly and can make the tan very blotchy. If you want to keep your spray tan looking fresh throughout your whole vacation, avoid swimming altogether. BUT if you plan on swimming we suggest going with a light spray tan shade to start (so the fading process isn’t too intense) and just keeping your spray tan expectations realistic while you enjoy your trip. The natural tan that you’ll get by being in the sun (while wearing SPF, of course) will slowly replace the spray tan as it fades away anyway so live your life, keep your skin moisturized, and don’t let your spray tan dictate the fun that you have. More questions? Shoot us a message through our Contact page.

5. Consider a Touch-Up Spray to Prolong Your Results

If you'll be on an extended vacation and want to maintain your spray tan color throughout, consider purchasing a Touch-Up Spray to add color as your tan lightens up and limit the number of showers you take. Every time you shower you lose a little bit of color as your skin gradually exfoliates off so only shower when you absolutely have to and opt for “bird baths” in between your showers to just freshen up. Once you’re home from your trip, consider scheduling a follow-up tan to keep that vacation glow going strong too!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will a spray tan protect my skin from the sun?

No, a spray tan does not provide any protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. It's important to continue using sunscreen with an appropriate SPF to shield your skin from sunburn and potential damage. While a spray tan may give the appearance of a sun-kissed glow, it does not offer any sun protection.

2. How long does a spray tan typically last?

The longevity of a spray tan can vary depending on several factors, including your skin type, and your aftercare routine. On average, a spray tan can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days. Proper aftercare such as moisturizing daily, swimming, and avoiding activities that may cause excessive sweating, can help prolong the lifespan of your tan.

3. Where can I find more information about spray tanning?

For more information about spray tanning, you can visit the Glamour Girl Airbrush Tan FAQ page on our website. We provide answers to common questions and offer some valuable insights into the spray tanning process.

4. How can I book a spray tan appointment?

To book a spray tan appointment, visit our Appointment Booking page. You can easily schedule your appointment online and choose a convenient date and time that works for you.

5. Are there any additional tips for maintaining a spray tan?

Absolutely! If you're looking for additional tips to make your spray tan last longer and achieve the best results, check out the following articles on our blog:

Book Your Spray Tan