1. Preparation (Before Your Appointment)
Q: How do I prepare for my spray tan? A: Proper preparation is key to a flawless, long-lasting tan!
A: The day before: Exfoliate your entire body to remove dead skin cells. Pay special attention to drier areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.
The day of (or night before): Shave or wax.
The day of (right before): Arrive with clean, dry skin. Do not apply any lotions, oils, perfumes, deodorants, or makeup, as they can create a barrier and cause the tan to be uneven or not develop properly.
Q: Can I get other beauty services done before my tan?
A: Yes, but time them correctly! Get all waxing, facials, manicures, and pedicures done at least 24 hours before your spray tan. This gives your pores time to close and ensures the tan doesn't get stripped or absorbed unevenly.
Q: What should I wear to my appointment?
A: Wear loose-fitting, dark clothing and flip-flops or open-toed shoes. The cosmetic bronzer in the solution may rub off on your clothes, and tight clothing can cause friction that streaks or rubs off the tan before it fully develops.
2. During Your Tan
Q: How long does the appointment take?
A: The entire process is quick! The spray tanning itself only takes about 15-20 minutes. Including a consultation and drying time, you'll typically be in and out in about 30 minutes.
Q: What do I wear while being sprayed?
A: That is completely up to your comfort level! Many clients go nude to avoid tan lines. You are also welcome to wear your own disposable underwear, a bathing suit, or a bra and panties. We always provide a safe, private, and comfortable environment.
Q: What is in your tanning solution?
A: As a licensed esthetician, I prioritize quality. Our solutions use skin-loving, organic ingredients and are formulated with DHA (Dihydroxyacetone), a sugar derivative approved by the FDA for sunless tanning. The solutions are packed with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamins, and plant extracts to ensure a beautiful tan that is also good for your skin.
3. Aftercare (Post-Tan)
Q: When can I shower after my spray tan?
A: This depends on the solution used, which we will discuss at your appointment.
Standard Tan: You will typically need to wait 8-12 hours before your first rinse.
Rapid/Express Tan: This solution allows you to rinse in as little as 2-4 hours.
Important: Your first rinse should be a quick, warm water rinse. Do not use soap, loofahs, or exfoliating washcloths. You will see the cosmetic bronzer wash off—don't worry, this is normal! Your tan has already set.
Q: How do I maintain my tan and make it last longer?
A: Moisturize twice daily with a paraben-free, oil-free, non-scented moisturizer. Hydrated skin is happy, long-lasting skin!
Avoid long, hot baths, steam rooms, saunas, and chlorinated pools, as these can strip your tan quickly.
Pat your skin dry after showering; do not rub.
Q: How long will my spray tan last?
A: With proper preparation and aftercare, your beautiful glow from Tans by Mak should last 7 to 10 days.
4. General Questions
Q: Will the spray tan protect me from the sun?
A: NO! Our spray tan solution offers no UV protection and does not prevent sunburn. You must still apply a quality broad-spectrum sunscreen if you are going to be exposed to the sun.
Q: Will I look orange?
A: Absolutely not! The dreaded orange color comes from cheap solutions or improper application. I am an expert in color theory and will select a customized solution based on your natural skin tone to give you a gorgeous, natural, bronze color.
Q: I'm getting married/going on vacation. When should I book my tan?
A: We recommend booking your tan 2 days before your event. This allows the tan to fully develop and settle into its most natural-looking color. For weddings, a trial tan is always a great idea!
