What you wear to a spray tan session can completely determine how good your results look. A lot of people make the same mistake, especially the first time. They show up in new or tight clothes and end up with stained outfits or uneven results. That is why we put together a guide on what to wear before your spray tan, what to wear after, and how to handle different situations like rain or cold weather.
Quick Answer – What to Wear to a Spray Tan
- Top: Loose, dark T-shirt, oversized sweatshirt, or flowy dress.
- Bottoms: Baggy sweatpants, joggers, maxi skirt, or loose lounge pants.
- Shoes: Flip flops or loose slides. Try to avoid socks and tight sneakers.
- Underwear or Bra: Old and dark pieces.
- Extras: Don’t wear any jewelry or accessories.
Key Takeaways
- Loose, dark, breathable clothing is your safest choice before and after a spray tan. Tight fabrics can rub the solution and leave streaks or pressure lines.
- Avoid leggings, skinny jeans, sports bras, and socks until after your first rinse, when the bronzer has washed off, and your tan has had time to set.
- During your appointment, you can go nude or keep your own underwear or swimwear on.
- The first 8 to 24 hours matter most. Plan your outfit ahead of time, especially in cold or rainy weather, to protect your results and avoid unnecessary friction.
What to Wear Before Your Spray Tan (Arriving at the Salon)
When you are on your way to a spray tan appointment, keep it as simple as possible. As we mentioned earlier, loose and dark clothing is your safest choice, and here is exactly why.
- Tight clothes can ruin your results. While the solution is still developing, friction from snug fabrics can cause streaks, rubbing, and uneven fading. That pressure against your skin can leave you with a patchy finish instead of a smooth glow.
- Dark clothing helps prevent visible stains. A small amount of solution can transfer to the fabric before your first rinse. If you are worried about staining, high-quality organic solutions, like the ones used at SunsUp Tan & Wellness Spa, are designed not to stain clothes. That is why you should choose organic spray tan solutions.
When it comes to fabric, stick with breathable materials like cotton. Silk, satin, and synthetic fabrics can trap heat, make you sweat more, and increase the chances of streaky tan.
What Not to Wear to a Spray Tan
Here is what you definitely want to avoid:
- Skinny jeans, leggings, or compression shorts
- Tight bras, such as sports bras or firm underwire styles
- White clothing, silky blouses, or expensive outfits you care about
- Socks and closed-toe shoes (if possible)
What to Wear to a Spray Tan in Winter or Rain
Following these clothing rules is easy when the weather is nice and sunny. But what do you do when it is raining or freezing outside?
Cold Weather / Winter
Cold weather is easy to handle when you layer the right way. Here is what works best:
- Loose, dark sweatpants or joggers
- An oversized hoodie or zip-up
- A big T-shirt under a hoodie
- A long, roomy coat that fits over everything without squeezing your arms or shoulders
- Loose footwear like slides, roomy boots, or slip-on shoes without tight socks
Rainy Weather
Rainy weather is trickier than cold weather. If your tan gets wet before it fully develops, it can turn streaky fast. Even a few raindrops on your arms or legs can cause uneven spots.
Here is what you should do:
- Bring an umbrella
- Wear a hooded coat for extra protection
- Choose closed but roomy outer layers that do not cling to your skin
- Be extra careful getting in and out of the car so raindrops do not hit your arms or legs
What to Wear During Your Spray Tan
What you wear during a spray tan session comes down to your comfort and personal preference.
- Go nude: This option gives you the most even coverage possible. The main advantage is that you will not have any tan lines. However, if you are not comfortable going nude, you can choose the other option.
- Your own underwear or swimwear: Just make sure to wear darker pieces that you do not mind staining. If you want visible bikini lines, this is the right approach for you.
No Jewelry, Makeup, or Deodorant
When you step into the spray tanning booth, you should not have anything on your skin that could block the solution.
So don’t wear:
- Makeup, deodorant, or perfume, since these can create a barrier and lead to patchy areas
- Watches, jewelry, or accessories, since they directly block the tanning solution and can leave lines
Clean and properly prepared skin always gives the best results. Here you can find the must-do preparation steps.
What to Wear After a Spray Tan While It Develops
After you get a spray tan, you can think about it in two phases:
- While your tan is developing, which is the most sensitive time
- After it has developed
First 8-24 Hours: Developing Time
This is the most important window for your results. During the first 8 to 24 hours, your tan is still developing, and what you wear matters just as much as the appointment itself.
Here is what you should do during the first 24 hours:
- Stick with loose and dark clothing
- Skip tight waistbands, bras, leggings, or socks
- Avoid anything that squeezes, rubs, or leaves marks
Best Footwear Options
In the first 24 hours, you should avoid socks, closed-toe shoes, and snug straps that dig into your skin. Instead, choose flip flops or loose slides. Make sure the straps are not tight enough to leave marks while your tan sets.
After the First Rinse
Once you rinse at the time recommended by your salon, whether you chose a rapid or classic formula, most of the cosmetic bronzer is washed away. Your color will continue to settle, but it will become much more stable.
As a general rule, after the first 24 hours, you can gradually return to your normal clothing.
FAQ
What should I wear to a spray tan appointment?
Wear loose, dark, and breathable clothes. Choose a relaxed top and bottoms made from soft fabric like cotton. Wear open-toe shoes such as flip flops or slides, and remove all jewelry.
What do I wear during a spray tan?
You have a few options. You can go nude, wear disposable garments if the salon provides them, or choose old, dark underwear or swimwear. It comes down to whether you want visible tan lines.
Can I wear leggings or skinny jeans after a spray tan?
It is best to wait until after your first rinse, and ideally 24 hours before wearing very tight items.
Can I wear a bra after a spray tan?
If possible, skip the bra for the first few hours. If not, wear a very loose and soft style like a bralette. Tight straps and firm bands can press into the skin and leave marks in your developing color.
What shoes should I wear to and after a spray tan?
Flip flops or loose slides are the best choice. Try to avoid socks, tight sneakers, or snug straps that can leave marks on your feet while the tan sets.
Can I sleep in my regular pajamas after a spray tan?
It may be best to go with loose and dark sleepwear the first night. There may be light transfer onto sheets, especially before your first rinse, so darker fabrics are safer.
What should I wear to a spray tan in winter?
Stick with the same loose and dark rule, just add layers. You can wear relaxed joggers, an oversized hoodie, and a roomy coat. You should be warm, but never dress too tightly.
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