Your First Spray Tan Should Feel Exciting. Not Intimidating.
From choosing your shade to knowing when to rinse, we’ll guide you through every step of your ATX Tans experience.
What to Expect
1. Before Your Appointment
You will receive prep instructions and a recommended appointment time based on your event.
2. Custom Shade Consultation
We will discuss your skin tone, undertone, glow goal, occasion and anything you want to avoid.
3. Your Spray Tan
The application typically takes approximately 15–20 minutes, with additional time for setup, consultation and finishing touches.
4. Your Rinse and Aftercare
You will receive personalized rinse instructions based on the formula used and the result you want.
First-Time Tanner Prep Checklist
24–48 Hours Before
Exfoliate your entire body using an exfoliating mitt.
Shave or wax before the day of your appointment when possible.
Complete manicures, pedicures, massages and spa services beforehand.
Avoid heavily moisturizing soaps, oil-based scrubs and products that leave residue.
Let us know about eczema, dry patches, recent sunburn, cuts or skin sensitivities.
The Day of Your Appointment
Shower several hours before your appointment.
Arrive with clean, dry skin.
Do not apply lotion, deodorant, perfume, body oil or makeup.
Wear loose, dark clothing and open footwear.
Remove jewelry before the appointment.
Bring or wear whatever you feel comfortable tanning in.
NOTE: Certain dry areas may need a small amount of barrier lotion. Your artist will apply it where
What to Wear During the Tan
Dark underwear
A swimsuit
Disposable undergarments provided by ATX Tans
Nothing, based on their comfort level and applicable service policies
You can also explain tan lines:
Wear the same style you expect to wear for your event if visible tan lines are a concern.
What to Wear Afterward
Loose, dark clothing
Oversized T-shirt or sweatshirt
Loose joggers or pajama pants
Dark, loose dress
Slides or flip-flops
Avoid:
Leggings
Sports bras
Tight jeans
Socks
Closed shoes
Tight waistbands
Common First-Time Questions
Will I Look Orange?
No shade should be selected using a one-formula-fits-all approach. ATX Tans considers your natural skin tone, undertone, desired depth, event and rinse timing to create a more natural-looking result.
Avoid promising that orange is impossible. Instead, emphasize customization.
How Long Does the Appointment Take?
The spray portion usually takes approximately 15–20 minutes. Mobile appointments also include consultation, setup, drying, finishing and cleanup.
When Should I Book Before an Event?
For most events, schedule your tan approximately two days beforehand. First-time bridal clients and anyone preparing for a major event should consider a trial tan in advance.
When Can I Shower?
Your artist will give you a specific rinse time. Rapid formulas may be rinsed after several hours, while traditional formulas remain on longer.
Will the Color Be Fully Developed After I Rinse?
Not immediately. Your cosmetic bronzer may rinse away first, while the final tan continues developing over the following hours.
Can I Sleep in My Spray Tan?
Only when your artist recommends a formula and rinse schedule designed for an overnight tan. Rapid formulas should usually be rinsed at the assigned time.
Can I Exercise Afterward?
Avoid sweating, swimming, rain and activities that expose the tan to moisture before your first rinse. Afterward, limit prolonged water exposure when you want the tan to last.
How Long Will It Last?
Most spray tans last approximately five to ten days depending on preparation, skin type, activity level, products and aftercare.
Is It Safe for Sensitive Skin?
Tell your artist about allergies, eczema, dermatitis, recent reactions or open skin before booking. Spray tanning may not be appropriate over irritated or actively inflamed areas.
Does a Spray Tan Protect Me From the Sun?
No. A spray tan does not replace sunscreen and does not provide meaningful UV protection.
What Happens if I Make a Mistake During Development?
Do not scrub or attempt to repair the area immediately. Take a photo and contact ATX Tans for instructions.
Aftercare Section
After Your First Rinse
Rinse using lukewarm water.
Avoid scrubbing during the first rinse.
Pat the skin dry instead of rubbing.
Apply a spray-tan-friendly moisturizer.
Moisturize every day.
Avoid exfoliating until you are ready for the tan to fade.
Limit long baths, hot tubs, chlorine and prolonged swimming.
Use sunscreen every day.
Nervous About Your Shade?
You do not need to know which formula or color to choose. Tell us how you want to look, what you are wearing, when your event is and what you want to avoid. We will take it from there.
Ready for Your First Glow?
Book your appointment and receive personalized preparation, rinse and aftercare instructions.