☀️ First Time Getting a Spray Tan Before Homecoming? Here’s What You Really Need to Know

You’ve got the dress. The heels. The hair and nails booked. But now you’re thinking... “Should I get a spray tan?” Totally fair — a golden glow can boost your confidence and make your skin pop in photos.

If it’s your first time, don’t stress! Spray tans are totally safe (no sun damage here), and when done right, they give you that perfect “I-just-got-back-from-vacation” look. But there are a few things you should know before you step into that booth.

Here’s your ultimate guide to first-time spray tans before Homecoming — what to do, what to avoid, and how to make it last through the big night!

🧖♀️ Step 1: Prep Like a Pro (aka The Day Before)

Spray tans stick to your top layer of skin, so you want that layer to be clean, smooth, and free of any products that might block the tan.

✅ DO:

• Exfoliate the night before with a loofah or scrub to remove dead skin.

• Shave or wax at least 24 hours before to avoid irritation.

• Moisturize rough areas like knees, elbows, ankles, and hands.

❌ DON’T:

• Don’t get a spray tan right after shaving (open pores = splotchy results).

• Don’t apply lotion, perfume, deodorant, or makeup on the day of your tan — it can create a barrier.

🏃♀️ Step 2: What to Wear to Your Appointment

Spray tans can rub off while developing, so choose your clothes wisely.

Best outfit = loose, dark clothing:

• Baggy t-shirt or sweatshirt

• Loose joggers or shorts

• Flip flops or slides

Bring a hair tie (but don’t leave a crease!) and avoid anything tight like bras, socks, or leggings right after your tan.

Pro tip: If you're nervous about undressing, most places offer disposable bras and underwear — or you can wear your own (just know it might get stained).

⏰ Step 3: Aftercare = Major Key

This is where a lot of first-timers mess up. Spray tans don’t look perfect the moment you walk out — they develop over time.

Right after your tan:

• Wait 6–8 hours (or whatever your technician recommends) before rinsing.

• During that time: No sweating, no getting wet. This includes rain, working out, or washing your hands too much.

• Your tan might look darker or orange before rinsing — don’t panic! That’s just the bronzer. It will even out after your first shower.

Your first rinse:

• Use lukewarm water only — no soap, scrubs, or loofahs.

• Don’t freak if brown water runs down the drain — that’s the excess color, not your tan fading.

• Pat dry with a towel instead of rubbing.

🌟 Step 4: Make It Last for Homecoming (and After!)

Spray tans usually last 5–7 days, but they fade faster if your skin gets dry or exfoliated.

Keep your glow with:

• Moisturizer every day (fragrance-free is best)

• Gentle soap and no scrubs or exfoliants

• Avoid long hot showers, pools, or hot tubs (they break down the tan)

Optional but helpful: Use a tan extender lotion (they're usually tinted) to boost your color before Homecoming night.

📸 Extra Tips for Picture-Perfect Results

• Get your spray tan 1–2 days before Homecoming, so it settles and looks natural.

• Don’t wait until the day of — you want time for it to develop and rinse off properly.

• If you're fair-skinned, ask for a light or medium shade — you can always go darker next time!

• Book with a salon that offers a custom tan, not just a machine, if possible — they can match the tone better to your skin.

🚨 Real Talk: Spray Tan Myths (Busted)

"Will I turn orange?"
Not if you prep right and choose a good salon. Ask for a natural finish, and avoid cheap places that overdo it.

"Can I wear deodorant?"
Not before your tan. It can turn green. Seriously.

"Will it rub off on my dress?"
A fully developed and rinsed tan shouldn’t transfer, but avoid tight white dresses just in case. Powder your skin lightly before getting dressed to help.

💁 Final Glow-Up Thoughts

Your first spray tan doesn’t have to be stressful — it’s all about prep, patience, and maintenance. If you follow the steps above, you’ll be glowing, confident, and camera-ready for Homecoming!

Glow get 'em, babe! ✨