Spray Tanning for Special Events: How to Time Your Tan for the Perfect Glow
As the team at BlushTan San Diego, we understand how important it is to look your best for special events like weddings, photoshoots, or vacations. One of the most effective ways to achieve a flawless look is with a spray tan. However, timing your tan is crucial to ensure you achieve the perfect glow. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best strategies for scheduling your spray tan before any major event, so your color looks its absolute best.
Why Timing Matters for Special Event Tans
One of the key benefits of spray tanning is the instant enhancement it gives to your appearance. But to get the most out of your tan, it’s essential to consider the timing. Spray tans are not a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to special events, as everyone’s skin responds to the tanning solution differently. Additionally, factors such as exfoliation, moisturizing, and how the tan fades over time can affect the longevity and look of your color.
At BlushTan San Diego, we recommend giving yourself enough time for the tan to fully develop, settle, ensuring a seamless look for your event.
The Importance of a Bridal Spray Tan Trial
Understanding How Spray Tans Develop
Regardless of when the tan is rinsed off, a tan typically reaches its peak color 24 hours after application. We offer a variety of rinse time options for our clients’ convenience such as our blushtan® CLEAR super express - rinse after 2-4 hours.
The tanning solution contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin to produce the bronzed effect. This process doesn’t happen immediately, which is why your tan will continue to deepen over the following 24 hours. By planning for this development time, you’ll give your skin the chance to achieve the most natural-looking color.
It’s important to note that your tan will gradually fade over the course of 5 to 10 days as your skin naturally exfoliates. By timing your tan well before the event, you’ll ensure the color is even, settled, and at its optimal shade.
When to Schedule Your Tan for Weddings
Weddings are among the most important events where timing your spray tan can make all the difference. We recommend scheduling your spray tan two to three days before the big day. This timeframe allows the color to develop fully while still looking fresh.
Why two to three days? The first day after your tan can be a bit tricky, as the color may still be darkening. By day two or three, the tan has typically reached its ideal hue. Moreover, you’ll want to avoid applying the tan too far in advance to prevent any fading or patchiness. Also, consider scheduling a trial tan a few weeks before the wedding to ensure the shade complements your dress, makeup, and overall aesthetic.
The Importance of a Bridal Spray Tan Trial
Pre-Wedding Tan Care
For brides, it’s especially important to take extra care of your skin before and after your spray tan. Here are some tips for maintaining that wedding-day glow:
Exfoliate the day before your tan to remove dead skin cells.
Moisturize daily leading up to the event but avoid oil-based lotions on the day of your appointment, as they can interfere with the spray tan.
Opt for loose-fitting clothing after your spray tan to avoid rubbing and smudging.
Timing Your Tan for Photoshoots
Whether it’s a professional photoshoot or an engagement session, the camera captures every detail, so it’s essential to have your spray tan at its peak. For photoshoots, we recommend booking your tan two days before the session.
This allows your tan to develop fully, and any initial bronzer that might have been applied during the tanning session will have washed away, leaving you with a natural, even tone. By day two, your skin should have a healthy glow that photographs beautifully without appearing too dark or unnatural.
Preparing for a Photoshoot: How to Get the Perfect Spray Tan
Consider Your Wardrobe
One of the benefits of spray tanning before a photoshoot is how it enhances your skin tone in photographs. However, keep in mind what you’ll be wearing. For example, if you plan to wear white or light-colored clothing, a lighter tan may be preferable to avoid any stark contrast between your skin and outfit. Discuss your options with us during your appointment at BlushTan San Diego to ensure the shade is perfect for your wardrobe and the overall mood of the photoshoot.
Spray Tanning Tips for Frequent Travelers: Maintaining Your Tan on the Go
Planning Your Tan for Vacations
Vacations are all about relaxation and enjoying the sun, and a spray tan can give you that sun-kissed look before you even set foot on the beach. For vacations, we suggest getting your spray tan one to two days before you depart.
This will ensure you start your trip with a fresh tan, and by the time you’re ready to relax by the pool or on the beach, your skin will have fully absorbed the color. Spray tans also offer an added benefit: they allow you to minimize sun exposure during your vacation while still maintaining a golden glow.
Protecting Your Tan While Traveling
Vacations, especially beach trips, come with their own set of challenges when it comes to maintaining your tan. To keep your spray tan looking its best throughout your trip:
Moisturize daily with a sunless-safe moisturizer like our BlushTan Hydrating Moisturizer. This will keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from peeling or fading unevenly.
Avoid long soaks in the pool or ocean, as extended water exposure can cause your tan to fade faster.
Don’t forget to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen. Even though you have a tan, your skin still needs protection from UV rays.
The Perfect Spray Tan for Other Special Events
Special events like galas, proms, or corporate events also call for careful tan timing. For these occasions, scheduling your spray tan one to two days prior is ideal. This allows enough time for the tan to develop into a rich, even color, while also giving you the opportunity to make adjustments if needed.
Whether you're attending an evening affair or an outdoor daytime event, our spray tan specialists at BlushTan San Diego can recommend the perfect shade to match the mood of your event.
Aftercare for Your Spray Tan
To prolong your spray tan, follow these key steps in the days leading up to and after your event:
Moisturize daily with products that are designed to extend the life of your tan, like our BlushTan Gradual Tanning Moisturizer.
Use a sunless-safe body wash like BlushTan Body Wash to keep your skin clean without stripping away the tan.
Avoid exfoliating for the first few days after your tan. Once your event has passed, you can gently exfoliate with our BlushTan Body Polish to help the tan fade evenly.
At BlushTan San Diego, we are committed to helping you look your best for any special event. By timing your spray tan just right, you can ensure that your skin has the perfect glow—whether it’s for a wedding, photoshoot, or vacation. Remember to follow our expert tips for tan maintenance to keep your color looking fresh and flawless for days after your event. For more personalized advice, feel free to consult with our team during your next visit!
Book your appointment today:
bankers hill
239 laurel st #102, san diego, ca 92101
phone: (619) 944-6472
encinitas
317 n el camino real #101, encinitas, ca 92024
phone: (760) 704-8422
la jolla
7863 girard ave #305, la jolla, ca 92037
phone: (858) 412-4029
We look forward to helping you achieve your bronzed best!