What to Wear to Your Spray Tan

Checklist of ideal clothing items for spray tan appointment

Baggy Clothes are Best

Examples of clothing to avoid before and after spray tanning
Example outfit for spray tan appointment including loose top and slides

Don’t Wear this Outfit to your Spray Tan

 FAQs

  • To achieve the best results, we recommend tanning 2–3 days before your event or vacation. This allows time for the color to fully develop, bronzer to rinse off, and your glow to settle. For full prep and aftercare tips, visit our Spray Tan Preparation & Aftercare Guide.

    • Complete all waxing or sugaring at least 48 hours prior

    • Exfoliate using a non-oil-based scrub (we love our Get Ready to GLW soaps + scrubs)

    • Shave 24 hours before using a fresh razor (avoid moisturizing strips)

    • Schedule nail appointments at least 24 hours before

    • Stop using salicylic acid and retinols one week prior

    • Arrive with clean, bare skin — no oils, perfumes, or deodorant (we provide wipes if needed)

  • YES! As a natural, freckly redhead, this is Amy's specialty. We customize every solution to complement your skin tone for a glow that looks 100% natural.

  • Tan longevity varies, but with good care, expect 7–14 days. Moisturize daily to maintain your spray tan's longevity. Our clients from Tacoma and surrounding areas like Gig Harbor and Puyallup love our recommended products for keeping their glow intact.

  • A spray tan won’t hide peeling and can actually make it worse. Even if your skin looks healed, you may end up with dark patches where the skin is uneven.

  • Many of our glowing mamas-to-be spray with us! That said, we always recommend checking with your doctor first.

  • We carry tan-safe, exclusive products from The Bubblery:

    • Glw on the Go

    • Tan Me BB

    • GLW Mousse

    Each one is made to extend or refresh your tan between sessions.

    • We recommend a trial tan 4 weeks before your big day

    • Avoid tan lines leading up to your wedding

    Our tans wear beautifully, and a trial gives us time to perfect your glow Learn more on our Bridal Spray Tan Guide

    • Women: wear as little or as much as you like — disposable G-strings are provided

    • Men: state regulations require boxers or briefs

    • Note: If you wear your own undergarments, we’re not responsible for staining

    • Loose, dark clothing — like joggers, oversized tees, or maxi dresses

    • Skip socks + sneakers; opt for slides or flip-flops

    • Avoid anything tight or elastic like leggings or sports bras
      → Want to see the space? Take a peek inside The GLW Studio

  • Your face is exposed to more cleansing, product use, and sweat. Keep your skincare routine gentle and hydrating to extend your glow.

  • Nope. Always wear SPF. We recommend Coola, SunBum, Elta MD, or Supergoop for tan-safe protection.

  • Yes — dry skin causes uneven fading.

    • Moisturize daily (especially after showering)

    • Our NW GLW Body Butters are made for this exact reason

    • No peeing in the shower while bronzer is still on (seriously — it streaks!)

    • Use warm water only, no soap for the first rinse

    • Rinse with hands, not washcloths

    • Pat dry with a towel and moisturize immediately

  • The bronzer is a temporary guide to help your technician see where they’ve applied solution. It rinses off during your first shower, leaving your real glow underneath.

  • Yes! We regularly serve clients from Gig Harbor, Puyallup, and Lakewood — and our bridal clients are always happy they made the drive to my studio in Tacoma.

  • Not yet. You’ll need to wait until your skin has fully healed and new, healthy skin has returned. Spray tanning over a burn or peeling skin can lead to uneven color, dark patches, and even irritation. Trust us — it’s worth waiting to protect your skin and get the flawless results you deserve.