The guide
Prep + aftercare
Good tans start before the appointment. Here's everything to do before, during and after for an even, natural-looking glow.
Before
Spray tan prep
24+ hours before
The day before
Exfoliate
Exfoliate your whole body, focusing on knees, elbows, ankles and hands. Use an oil-free scrub so nothing sits between your skin and your tan.
Shave or wax
Do any hair removal at least 24 hours before. This gives your pores time to close so your tan develops evenly.
Finish other beauty appointments
Get nails, facials and waxing done before your tan, not after.
Day of
Appointment day
Arrive with clean, bare skin
Skip lotion, deodorant, perfume and makeup. Clean skin takes color best.
Wear loose, dark clothes
Bring or wear loose, dark clothing and loose shoes like slides. Avoid anything tight, including leggings, jeans and bras with elastic bands.
Plan around water and sweat
Skip workouts and plan to stay dry until your rinse time.
After
Spray tan aftercare
Until you rinse
While it develops
Stay dry
Avoid water, sweat and heavy activity until your rinse time.
Keep it loose
Stick to loose, dark clothing. Tight fabric can rub or leave marks.
Hands off
Try not to touch your skin, and wash only your palms if needed.
First rinse
Your first rinse
Cocoa Rapid
Rinse after 1–4 hours. Sooner for a lighter glow, later for a deeper one.
Cocoa Classic
Rinse after about 8–12 hours.
Keep it simple
Lukewarm water only, no soap. The bronzer washing away is normal. Pat dry gently with a dark towel.
Make it last
Making it last
Moisturize daily
Hydrated skin holds color longer and fades more evenly.
Shower quick and warm
Keep showers short and avoid long hot baths, hot tubs and chlorine when you can.
Go gentle
Skip exfoliants, scrubs and harsh cleansers until you are ready for your tan to fade.