The S+B Glow Guide: Find Your Perfect Spray Tan Shade

From a subtle sun-kissed glow to a deeper bronze, discover your ideal SUGARED + BRONZED spray tan shade, plus everything you need to know before and after your appointment.

Your perfect glow isn't one-size-fits-all.

Whether you're looking for a little extra color before the weekend or a deeper, just-back-from-vacation bronze, S+B custom airbrush spray tans are designed to complement your natural skin tone and desired results.

With four customizable Elixirs and our signature FlexExpress® formula, you can create a glow that feels completely your own.

Not sure where to start? Consider this your guide to finding your shade, prepping your skin, and keeping your tan looking its best.

Which SUGARED + BRONZED Spray Tan Shade Is Right for You?

At S+B, we offer four customizable Elixirs, ranging from a subtle, natural-looking glow to a rich, deeper bronze.

Elixir 1: Day of Play

Think light, fresh, and naturally sun-kissed. Elixir 1 is our lightest shade, perfect for first-time spray tan clients or anyone who wants a subtle boost of color without a dramatic change.

Elixir 2: Weekend Away

A light-to-medium bronze that adds noticeable warmth while still looking natural. Elixir 2 is a great everyday option when you want that fresh-from-the-weekend glow.

Elixir 3: Weeklong Vacation

Looking for a little more color? Elixir 3 delivers a medium-to-deep bronze that's ideal for vacations, special occasions, or whenever you're in the mood for a more noticeable tan.

Elixir 4: End of Summer

Our deepest Elixir is all about a rich, more dramatic bronze. Perfect for clients who love a darker tan and want that end-of-summer color year-round.

Not sure which Elixir is right for you? Your S+B sprayer will help you select a shade based on your natural skin tone, desired depth of color, and previous spray tanning experience.

How Does FlexExpress® Work?

One of the best things about an S+B spray tan? You can customize more than just your shade.

Our proprietary FlexExpress® formula combines skincare-focused ingredients with flexible rinse times ranging from 1–8 hours, depending on your Elixir and recommended development time.

In general, a longer rinse time allows for a deeper result, but the ideal timing depends on your selected shade and skin.

And here's something every first-time client should know: the color you see immediately after your appointment isn't your final tan.

The bronzer provides an instant color guide for your sprayer and rinses away during your first shower. Meanwhile, DHA—the ingredient responsible for your sunless tan—continues developing color on the outermost layer of your skin.

So if you notice some bronze washing away during your first rinse, don't worry. That's completely normal!

How Should You Prep for a Spray Tan?

A smooth, even-looking tan starts before you arrive at the store.

Here's your quick S+B spray tan prep checklist:

• Exfoliate ahead of time. Use the S+B Exfoliating Mitt and S+B Exfoliating Scrub to remove dead skin cells and help create an even canvas.

• Schedule hair removal beforehand. If you're planning on sugaring or shaving, complete it before your spray tan rather than afterward.

• Arrive with clean, product-free skin. Avoid lotions, oils, deodorant, and perfume immediately before your appointment.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Choose an outfit that won't rub against your freshly applied tan.

Forgot to exfoliate? You can use a S+B Sunless Tanning Prep Wipe in-store before your appointment to help remove product residue and prep your skin.

A little preparation makes a difference in how your color develops and fades.

How Do You Make Your Spray Tan Last Longer?

Once you've found your perfect shade, the next step is keeping your glow looking fresh.

1. Follow your rinse instructions. Your sprayer will recommend the appropriate rinse time based on your Elixir and desired color. For your first rinse, follow the specific instructions provided at your appointment.

2. Keep your skin hydrated. Once your initial rinse and development instructions are complete, incorporate S+B Hocoba Oil into your routine to help keep skin moisturized and support an even-looking fade.

3. Avoid unnecessary exfoliation. Exfoliating can remove your tan faster, so save your S+B Exfoliating Mitt for when you're ready to prep for your next appointment.

4. Be mindful of hot showers. Long, hot showers can dry out your skin and contribute to faster fading. Keep showers gentle when possible.

5. Maintain your bronze at home. As your color gradually fades, S+B Sunless Tanning Lotion can help refresh your glow between professional appointments.

With the right aftercare, your tan can fade more evenly and keep looking natural throughout its wear.

Can Every Skin Tone Get a Spray Tan?

Absolutely! Spray tanning isn't limited to one skin tone or complexion.

Our customizable Elixirs are designed to work across a range of natural skin tones, from fair to deep. Whether you're looking for a subtle enhancement or a more noticeable bronze, your sprayer can help select a formula that complements your skin.

The goal isn't to look like someone else. It's to find the shade that makes you feel your best.

Your Shade, Your Glow

From Elixir 1's subtle glow to Elixir 4's deeper bronze, there's an S+B shade for every glow goal.

Whether it's your first appointment or you've already found your go-to Elixir, a little prep, the right rinse time, and consistent aftercare can make all the difference.

Ready to find your perfect shade? Book your next SUGARED + BRONZED custom airbrush spray tan and let our team help you customize your glow.

Your glow, your way.