top of page

SPRAY TAN PREP & POST CARE

To ensure the best possible results, please review the preparation and after-care information below. 

 

HELPFUL VIDEOS

HOW SPRAY TANNING

WORKS

Our VersaSpa Norvell Glow System uses DHA (dihydroxyacetone) and Erythrulose, naturally derived tanning ingredients that react with the outermost layer of your skin to create a beautiful, sun-kissed glow.​

  • Color begins developing within 2–3 hours

  • Most color develops within 12–24 hours

  • Erythrulose continues developing for up to 48 hours, helping your tan last longer and fade more evenly

  • Results typically last 5–7 days, and often longer with proper aftercare​

 

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Your cosmetic bronzer provides immediate color after your session

  • During your first rinse, much of this cosmetic bronzer will wash away

  • It is completely normal to look lighter after your first rinse than when you left the salon

  • Your tan will continue developing for 12–24 hours after application

  • Erythrulose continues developing for up to 48 hours, helping create a longer-lasting, more natural fade

  • Some areas (hands, feet, elbows, knees, and underarms) may appear darker initially due to dry skin and will soften as the tan develops

  • Your tan will gradually fade through natural skin exfoliation

  • Well-hydrated skin typically produces the most even, longest-lasting results

 BEFORE YOUR SPRAY TAN​

​24 HOURS BEFORE

• Exfoliate thoroughly using a non-oil-based exfoliant

• Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your appointment

• Avoid oil-based products that may create a barrier on the skin

DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT

  • Arrive with clean, dry skin

  • No lotion, oils, deodorant, perfume, makeup, or sunscreen

  • Wear loose, dark clothing and open-toe shoes

  • Remove all jewelry

AFTER YOUR SPRAY TAN

Rinse Time Based on Solution Selected

 Malibu (Gradual Development)

  • Leave on skin for 8–12 hours before rinsing

  • Ideal for a natural, buildable glow

 

​​​​​Venetian Rapid (Rapid Development)

Choose your color depth:

  • 1–2 hours = Light, natural glow

  • 2–3 hours = Medium tan

  • 3–4+ hours = Deeper, darker result

BEFORE YOUR FIRST RINSE

Your tan is still developing during this time. To ensure the most even results, avoid

  • ​Sweating or strenuous exercise

  • Swimming, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms

  • Rain, excessive humidity, and prolonged water exposure

  • Tight clothing, leggings, sports bras, socks, boots, or anything that may rub the skin

  • Applying lotions, oils, deodorant, makeup, or perfume

  • Touching, rubbing, scratching, or exfoliating the skin

  • Household chores or activities that may cause sweating

​

Pro Tip: If possible, save workouts, beach trips, yard work, and other sweat-inducing activities for after your first rinse.

FIRST RINSE

  • ​Rinse with lukewarm water only

  • No soap, body wash, shampoo, or exfoliants

  • The cosmetic bronzer will rinse away during your shower — this is completely normal

  • You may see a significant amount of brown color wash down the drain and notice tinted water

  • This does not mean your spray tan is washing off

  • Your developed tan remains underneath and will continue developing over the next 12–24 hours

  • Gently pat skin dry

MAXIMIZE & EXTEND YOUR GLOW

TIPS TO EXTEND YOUR TAN

  • Moisturize daily

  • Use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash

  • Stay hydrated

  • Limit long, hot showers

  • Avoid excessive chlorine exposure

  • Avoid exfoliating product

​

For best results, avoid Dove soap, oil-based body washes, and heavily exfoliating products, as they may cause your tan to fade more quickly or unevenly.

MAXIMIZING PRODUCTS

A beautiful spray tan starts with healthy, hydrated skin. We offer several products specifically designed to help you achieve the most even application, longest wear, and best fade possible. ​​

​

  • ExMitt Body Buff — Preps the skin by removing dead skin cells and creating the ideal canvas for your spray tan.

  • Enhancing Primer — Applied before your session to help balance skin pH and optimize solution absorption for more even results.

  • Shower Cleanser — A spray tan-friendly cleanser formulated to gently cleanse without stripping or prematurely fading your color.

  • Prolong Extending Lotion — Helps maintain hydration while extending the life of your tan and promoting a more even fade.

  • Skin Renewing Body Butter — Deeply nourishes dry skin, helping prevent patchy fading and keeping your glow looking fresh longer.

  • Post-Tan Face Lotion — Designed specifically for the face, where tans often fade first due to cleansing and skincare routines.​

 

Most of these products are available in both sample and full sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your routine.

​

For the ultimate glow, ask about our add-on Hydrate WellFit Treatment during your appointment. This skin-conditioning treatment helps boost hydration, supports a more even fade, and can help extend the life of your tan.

SUNSCREEN & YOUR SPRAY TAN

A spray tan provides a beautiful color, but it does not provide UV protection.​

​

  • To protect both your skin and your results:

  • Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher

  • Look for spray tan-friendly, oil-free formulas

  • Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often the gentlest option

  • Avoid high-alcohol aerosol sprays when possible

​

Apply sunscreen after your first rinse and once your tan has fully developed.

Important
The color you leave with is primarily cosmetic bronzer. After your first rinse, you may appear significantly lighter than you did immediately after your session. This is completely normal. Your tan will continue developing over the next 12–24 hours, with final results visible the following day.

Connect with us on Facebook & Instagram!

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
bottom of page