Bridal Spray Tan Prep & Aftercare Guide for the Perfect Wedding Glow

Written By Cassidy Hand

Your wedding glow should be flawless, natural, and completely stress-free. This guide walks you through exactly how to prepare for your bridal spray tan, when to book it, and how to make your color last beautifully through your wedding day and beyond. Whether you’re coming in for your trial tan or your wedding tan, follow these steps for the smoothest, most radiant results.

We have carefully curated the perfect bridal package for your wedding day called our Prenuptials Package.

💍 Your Bridal Spray Tan Timeline

Trial Tan: Schedule 3–8 weeks before your wedding
Wedding Tan: Book 2–3 days before the big day

Your trial lets us customize your perfect shade, and your wedding tan follows the same formula so there are zero surprises. That said, we love fine-tuning — brides are encouraged to request any changes after their trial, whether you want a softer glow, a deeper bronze, or a different undertone.

STEP 1: How to Prep for Your Bridal Spray Tan

Proper skin prep is the #1 factor in how your tan looks and how long it lasts.

✅ 24 Hours Before Your Appointment

1. Exfoliate thoroughly
Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin. Focus on:

  • Elbows

  • Knees

  • Ankles

  • Heels

  • Wrists

This creates a smooth canvas so your tan develops evenly.

2. Shave or wax
Do all hair removal at least 24 hours before your appointment. This allows pores to close and prevents irritation or dark spots.

❌ The Day of Your Appointment — Avoid These

Come to your appointment with clean, dry skin only.

Do NOT wear:

  • Lotion or body oil

  • Perfume

  • Deodorant

  • Makeup

These products can act as barriers and affect how your tan develops.

💅 Schedule Other Beauty Services First

Plan manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, and massages at least 12 hours BEFORE your spray tan.
Getting them afterward can fade, streak, or strip your color.

👗 What to Wear to Your Appointment

  • Loose, dark clothing

  • No tight bras, leggings, or socks

  • Flip-flops or slides

Tight clothing can rub against your developing tan and cause marks.

STEP 2: What Happens During Your Appointment

Your bridal tan is custom airbrushed to enhance your natural skin tone — never orange, never overdone. We create a soft, luminous glow that looks amazing in photos and in person.

✔ Your bridal package also includes complimentary tan line blending for a seamless finish.

STEP 3: After Your Spray Tan (CRUCIAL)

This is where the magic sets in ✨

🚿 When Do I Shower?

Your artist will tell you your exact rinse time:

  • Rapid Tan: Rinse in 1–5 hours

  • Classic Tan: Rinse in 8–12 hours

Your First Shower

  • Use lukewarm water only

  • No soap

  • No scrubbing

  • No shaving

You’ll see bronzer washing off — that’s normal. Your real tan continues developing over the next 12–24 hours.

STEP 4: How to Make Your Bridal Tan Last

Want your glow to last through the honeymoon? Follow these rules:

💧 Moisturize Daily (Morning & Night)

Use a gentle, fragrance-free lotion to keep skin hydrated. Dry skin fades faster.

🧴 Use Gentle Body Wash

Avoid:

  • Exfoliating scrubs

  • Loofahs

  • Acne washes

  • Retinol or anti-aging body products

🛁 Skip Long Hot Baths & Saunas

Heat and soaking fade your tan more quickly.

🏖 Be Careful with Pools & Hot Tubs

Chlorine can lighten your tan, so rinse off and moisturize after swimming.

Your bridal aftercare product is designed to help extend your glow — use it!

👰 Wedding Day Questions Brides Always Ask

Will my tan rub off on my dress?

After your first rinse and full development, transfer is minimal. Just avoid tight white clothing before that first shower.

Can I wear makeup, lotion, or perfume?

Yes — after your first rinse. Apply lightly and let products fully dry before dressing.

What if I cry, sweat, or get caught in the rain?

No stress. Once developed, your tan is set. A little moisture won’t ruin your glow.

🤍 If You Notice Anything Unusual

Dryness = faster fading. Increase moisturizing and avoid exfoliating. If you ever have questions or concerns, reach out — bridal clients are always our priority.

Your bridal glow is part of your full wedding look, and we’re honored to help you feel radiant, confident, and photo-ready on your big day. ✨

Cassidy Hand