What to Wear to a Spray Tan (and How to Prep for the Best Glow)

With summer here, it’s time to break out the shorts and swimsuits—and if you want to look bronzed without sun damage, spray tans are your best friend. Whether you’re a first-timer or a spray tan regular, knowing how to dress and prep makes all the difference for a long-lasting, even glow.

What Should You Wear to a Spray Tan?

Getting dressed for your spray tan is simple: loose, dark, and breathable clothing is key.

• Ideal picks: a roomy maxi dress, loose joggers, or an oversized T-shirt.

• If it’s chilly, go with a black oversized sweater and sweatpants.

• Skip a bra if possible—tight straps can rub and create uneven patches.

• On your feet, choose slides or sandals (bonus if they’re dark-colored and loose-fitting).

What Do You Wear During the Spray Tan?

This part is all about your comfort level. Some clients go nude to avoid tan lines, while others keep on underwear or swimsuit bottoms to see the contrast.

At Sugared + Bronzed, disposable garments are always available for guests who prefer them, and you’re welcome to wear your own underwear too.

No matter what you choose, arrive with clean, dry skin—no lotions, oils, deodorants, or perfumes. These act as barriers and can affect absorption.

What to Wear After a Spray Tan

After your appointment, keep rocking loose, dark clothing. Avoid bras, leggings, sports bras, or jeans—anything snug can smudge your tan while it develops.

You can rinse off as soon as one hour post-spray or wait up to 24 hours, depending on your spray tan artist’s recommendation. Once you’ve rinsed, you can return to your normal wardrobe.

Pro tip: For the longest-lasting glow, avoid chlorinated pools, saunas, and harsh scrubs for several days.

How to Prep for a Spray Tan

Prepping your skin is the most important step for flawless results.

• 24 hours before: Exfoliate your entire body with an oil-free scrub or mitt to remove dead skin, leftover product, or old tan.

• The day before: Shave or wax to prevent irritation and streaks. Avoid shaving the same day of your tan.

• Day of your tan: Skip lotions, oils, perfumes, and deodorants. Showering is fine, but no exfoliation right before.

After your tan, stay dry and avoid sweating or swimming until your first rinse. And remember—the bronzer you see right away isn’t the final color. Your fully developed tan will show the next day.