Spring Break Spray Tan Dos & Don’ts
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Pre-Vacation Glow
Spring break means beach trips, cruises, destination weddings, and plenty of photos. If you’re planning to get a spray tan before spring break, a little preparation can help your color develop evenly and last longer while you’re on vacation.
At Shades Atelier in Bryan–College Station, we spray clients heading on trips all the time. Here are a few simple tips to help you get the most out of your spray tan.
When Should You Get a Spray Tan Before Spring Break?
Most people like to schedule their spray tan 1–2 days before leaving for their trip.
This gives your tan plenty of time to develop and for you to complete your first rinse before heading to the beach or pool.
For example, if you leave Friday, a Wednesday or Thursday appointment is usually perfect depending on whether you choose a rapid or regular solution.
Helpful Spray Tan Tips Before Your Trip
Exfoliate Before Your Appointment
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells so the spray tan solution can develop smoothly and evenly.
Try to exfoliate about 24 hours before your appointment using:
• An exfoliating mitt
• An oil-free scrub
Loofahs don’t typically exfoliate well enough and can leave texture on the skin.
Shave or Wax Ahead of Time
If you plan to shave or wax, doing so the day before your spray tan usually works best.
This helps your skin settle before the spray tan is applied and contributes to smoother results.
Wear Loose Clothing After Your Spray
After your appointment, loose clothing tends to be the most comfortable while your tan develops. Think:
• Oversized t-shirts
• Loose dresses
• Relaxed pants
This simply helps avoid pressure marks while the color is setting.
Keep Skin Hydrated While Traveling
Moisturized skin helps your spray tan last longer. On vacation, daily moisturizing can make a big difference in how evenly your tan fades.
At Shades Atelier, we carry spray tan-friendly sunscreen, tan extenders, and moisturizers that work well with spray tans. Many clients like to pick these up during their appointment before heading out of town.
And remember — while spray tans give beautiful color, sunscreen is still essential for protecting your skin. You can read more about choosing spray tan-friendly sunscreen in our blog here.
A Few Things That Can Shorten a Spray Tan
There’s nothing you need to stress about, but a few things can cause spray tans to fade a little faster:
• Swimming immediately after your appointment
• Heavy oils or oil-based products
• Very long hot baths or aggressive exfoliation
How Long Will a Spray Tan Last on Vacation?
Most spray tans last about 7 days, sometimes longer depending on skin type and aftercare.
Swimming, sun exposure, and sweating are all part of vacation life, so some gradual fading is completely normal. Keeping your skin moisturized and using a tan extender helps maintain your glow as long as possible.
Spray Tanning in Bryan–College Station Before Spring Break
Spring is one of the busiest times for spray tans in Bryan–College Station, especially with Texas A&M students preparing for spring break travel.
If you’re planning a trip, it’s always a good idea to schedule your appointment a little ahead of time so you can get the day and time you prefer.
✨ Ready for your spring break glow?
Book your spray tan at Shades Atelier and head into your trip bronzed, confident, and vacation-ready.
