Prepare ahead
Before your spray tan
Preparation gives the colour a more even surface on which to develop. Exfoliate and shave before the appointment rather than leaving those jobs until after the tan has been applied. Pay attention to areas that can be dry, while avoiding aggressive last-minute exfoliation.
Exfoliate
Exfoliate in advance so old, dry surface skin is not left to create an uneven fade.
Shave
Complete shaving before the appointment so it does not disturb newly applied colour afterwards.
Plan clothing
Set out loose, dark clothing and comfortable footwear for after the appointment.
Share concerns
Tell Francesca in advance about sensitive skin, allergies, recent skin treatments, sunburn, open cuts or another concern that may affect the tan.
Keep the appointment day clear of product. Avoid moisturiser, perfume and deodorant before the tan. If Francesca gives you specific advice for a dry area, follow that individual guidance.
Clean, calm and ready
On appointment day
Have clean, product-free skin and enough clear space for the professional pop-up tent. A plug socket should be nearby if needed. Francesca brings the compact mobile kit and talks through your skin tone, preferred depth, occasion and available rinse time before choosing the colour.
Avoid
Moisturiser, perfume and deodorant before the appointment.
Wear afterwards
Loose, dark clothing that is less likely to rub while the tan develops.
Keep free
The confirmed development window before your first rinse.
Ask
Any questions about the finish, rinse timing or aftercare before Francesca leaves.
The colour immediately after application is still developing. Do not judge the finished depth before you have followed the confirmed rinse instructions and allowed the tan to settle.
Follow the agreed window
Your first rinse
The usual guidance is to rinse in 8 to 10 hours, or in 2 to 4 hours for a rapid tan. The correct window depends on the product and plan confirmed for your appointment, so use Francesca’s instructions rather than a generic time found elsewhere.
Use the exact time confirmed for your appointment.
Rapid does not mean one universal rinse time; follow the agreed plan.
- Rinse at the time Francesca confirms.
- Pat your skin dry rather than rubbing it.
- Keep the first rinse simple and avoid harsh exfoliation.
- Remember that final colour and wear vary with skin, preparation and aftercare.
Protect the finish
Daily spray tan aftercare
Moisturising daily helps the skin stay comfortable and supports a more even-looking fade. Long baths and harsh exfoliants can speed up uneven wear, so keep washing and drying gentle while you want to retain the colour.
Most tans last 5 to 10 days, depending on your skin, preparation and aftercare. That range is a guide rather than a guarantee. How the colour wears can also vary from one appointment to another.
Moisturise daily
Regular moisturising helps the colour fade more evenly.
Pat dry
Avoid vigorous towel rubbing after washing.
Keep baths shorter
Long baths can make the tan wear more quickly.
Save exfoliation
Avoid harsh exfoliants until you are ready to remove the remaining colour and prepare for another tan.
Planning a hotel, fitness shoot or bodybuilding competition appointment? The development window may need closer coordination. Read how custom timing is agreed in the photoshoot and competition tan guide.
Quick answers
Preparation and care questions
Should I moisturise before a spray tan?
Avoid moisturiser on appointment day unless Francesca has advised otherwise for a specific dry area. Skin should also be free from deodorant and perfume before the tan.
When should I rinse after a spray tan?
The usual guidance is 8 to 10 hours, or 2 to 4 hours for a rapid tan. Follow the rinse window Francesca confirms for your chosen product and appointment, then pat the skin dry.
How long does a spray tan last?
Most tans last 5 to 10 days depending on skin, preparation and aftercare. Moisturising daily and avoiding long baths or harsh exfoliants helps the colour fade more evenly.
What should I wear after a spray tan?
Wear loose, dark clothing after the appointment so tight fabric is less likely to rub against the developing tan.