Caring for Your Tan

At Be Golden, your results begin before your appointment and continue long after. Proper pre-care allows the solution to apply flawlessly, while post-care preserves color, hydration, and overall finish. Our care guidelines are designed to help you maintain a refined, natural glow for as long as possible.

Schedule all manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, laser hair removal, and hair appointments in advance. Blowouts should be done before your spray tan or after your first rinse, not in between.
For best results, hair removal allows time for pores to close properly. All waxing or shaving should be completed the day before your appointment. If done too close to your spray tan, solution can settle into open pores and create a spotty appearance.
Exfoliate 24 hours prior using an oil-free body scrub or exfoliant to ensure an even, long-lasting tan.

Shower the morning of your appointment using water only—no soaps, body washes, or scrubs.
Do not apply lotion, oils, creams, perfume, or makeup.
Avoid deodorant on the day of your appointment.
Wear dark, loose-fitting clothing and open-toed sandals or flip-flops if possible. Avoid sneakers or tight shoes.
While tanning solution typically washes out of most fabrics, it may stain nylon, lycra, or silk. Cotton is strongly recommended.
Avoid tight-fitting clothing or shoes immediately after your appointment to allow your tan to develop evenly.

If you plan on driving after your appointment, cover your car seat with a dark towel to prevent any transfer or streaking.
Avoid wearing bras, socks, or other restrictive clothing immediately after your spray tan. Loose-fitting, dark clothing is recommended to allow your tan to develop evenly without disruption.
Refrain from showering for a minimum of 6–8 hours.
If you plan to let your tan develop overnight, use older sheets as a precaution. Temporary bronzer may transfer, but it will wash out.
Your first shower should be a gentle rinse only—no soaps, oils, or scrubs. You’ll notice the temporary bronzer rinse away, revealing your signature golden glow underneath. Your tan will continue to develop for up to 24 hours after rinsing, so don’t worry if the color feels lighter at first. From this point forward, staying well-hydrated is essential.

After showering, pat skin dry—do not rub.
Moisturize twice daily using a water-based lotion to extend the life of your glow.
Use a soft, nourishing moisturizer. Avoid products containing AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), as they promote exfoliation. Also avoid any products containing DHA or self-tanner, which can alter your spray tan’s tone and cause yellowing.
The longevity of your tan depends on workouts, shower frequency, and exposure to chlorine or salt water. If swimming, apply a thick layer of sunscreen lotion beforehand to create a protective barrier between your skin and the water.
Avoid shaving until day three after your spray tan, as shaving acts as exfoliation.
After every five consecutive weeks of spray tanning, it’s recommended to allow your skin to reset for at least 10 days.
Healthy, hydrated skin holds color longer. Results may vary by individual.