Booking your first custom airbrush tan? The secret to a flawless, natural glow isn’t just the application — it’s the prep. A little planning the day before makes the difference between a streaky, short-lived tan and a smooth, even color that fades beautifully. Here’s exactly how we tell our Scottsdale clients to get ready.

Why prep matters

Sunless tanner reacts with the very top layer of your skin. If that layer is uneven, dry, or coated in product, your color develops unevenly and fades in patches. Good prep gives us a clean, smooth canvas — which is how you get that believable, sun-kissed finish.

The night before your appointment

• Shave and exfoliate. Do both the night before (not the morning of) so your pores have time to close. Use an oil-free exfoliating scrub or an exfoliating mitt to lift away dead skin.
• Skip the Dove and heavy soaps. Many bar soaps leave a film that blocks the solution. Cetaphil or CeraVe rinse clean and work great.
• Moisturize lightly — once. Only the night before, and only on naturally dry spots like elbows, knees, hands, and feet.

The morning of your tan

• Arrive with clean, bare skin. No lotion, no deodorant, no makeup, no perfume or oils. These create a barrier and cause uneven absorption.
• Don’t shower right before. Let your skin settle so it can absorb the solution evenly.
• Wear dark, loose clothing and bring flip-flops. Tight clothes and straps can rub the cosmetic bronzer before it sets.

A quick note on timing

If you’re tanning for a specific event, book 1–2 days ahead so your color has time to fully develop. Planning a wedding? Read our bridal spray tan timeline for the full schedule.

When you arrive, your artist will walk you through everything and custom-mix a shade for your skin tone — no orange, no guesswork. Ready to glow? Book your appointment or take a look at our prep and aftercare guide for the full details.