The beautiful colour that develops on your skin isn’t magic. It’s the result of deeply researched processes, and you are a co-creator of that final effect. Read on to find out how to properly prepare your body before your spray tan Krakow-Zielonki appointment — step by step.
Exfoliation: The Step You Absolutely Cannot Skip
Why is it so important? Your tan develops in the outermost layer of your skin. To achieve the most natural and even result, it is crucial to remove dead skin cells beforehand. Without this step, even the best solution and my most precise application might not be enough to guarantee a perfectly natural look.
- When: Exfoliate 24 hours before your appointment.
- With what: Ensure your scrub is oil-free and sugar-free. An oily residue on the skin creates an unwanted barrier for the tanning solution.
- The safest bet: A standard, reliable exfoliating mitt.
Hair Removal: How to Prevent “Strawberry Legs”
Hair removal before a tan isn’t strictly necessary—I actually test all new solutions on my non-epilated guinea pig (my husband), and the results are perfectly even! However, if you do plan to remove body hair, keep in mind that hair removal (especially waxing or shaving) opens up your pores. If the tanning solution settles into these open pores, it creates unappealing dark spots commonly known as “strawberry legs.”
To avoid this, strictly follow this timeline:
- Shaving: Shave 24 hours before your session, and be sure to use a fresh razor to prevent irritation.
- Waxing / Sugaring: Do this 48 hours beforehand, as your skin needs more time to recover.
- Laser hair removal: Schedule this 7 to 14 days prior to your tan.
Shower Dilemmas: Gels and Soaps Under the Microscope
Choosing the right body wash is just as important as exfoliating.
What should you absolutely avoid before tanning?
- Creamy shower gels that might contain moisturising oils.
- Any oils or emollients.
- High-pH bar soaps, which can disrupt your skin’s natural pH and negatively impact how your tan develops.
What should you choose instead?
- A clear, transparent shower gel or micellar body wash.
- Intimate wash! Use it for your entire body—thanks to its pH level, it creates an absolutely perfect base for the tanning solution.
The Final Stretch: Become a “Blank Canvas”
Right before your appointment, your skin needs to be fresh and, most importantly, completely free of any cosmetic products.
- Rinse off: Take a quick shower 3 to 4 hours before your session. This gives your pores enough time to naturally close and your skin’s pH to fully stabilise.
- No products allowed: Once you step out of the shower, do not apply any lotions, antiperspirants, perfumes, or makeup.
- The goal: Make sure your skin is quite literally a “blank canvas” before our appointment.
What to Wear After Your Tan
After leaving the studio, your tan will continue to develop over the next few hours. For a beautiful and even result, you need to prioritise absolute comfort.
- Choose loose-fitting clothes: Long pants are best to completely prevent any skin-to-skin contact.
- Avoid tight, form-fitting clothing: They can physically rub the tanning solution off areas like your hips, thighs, or shoulders.
- Opt for dark colours: The initial bronzer can slightly stain fabrics before your first rinse.
- Skip the accessories: Do not wear watches or jewellery right after the session. Leather and metal bands can rub the solution away or cause an unwanted reaction with it.
Wrapping Up
Good preparation is the key to a beautiful, sun-kissed glow. If you live in the northern areas of Krakow (Prądnik Biały, Prądnik Czerwony, Nowa Huta, Bronowice, or Zielonki), getting to me takes just a moment. Forget about struggling to find parking in the crowded city centre.
Come get a touch of UV-free sunshine — book your spray tan Krakow-Zielonki visit at Afterglow! Click here to book your appointment.
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