Do You Put Lotion On Before A Spray Tan

Ever found yourself standing in your bathroom, staring at that bottle of self-tanner, wondering if you should be a lotion-ator or a spray-tan ninja? I mean, who hasn't, right? It's like the eternal question of whether to put on deodorant before or after you get dressed. You don't want to end up looking like a streaky, orange mess, but you also don't want to be walking around with white patches like you've got some weird, pasty disease.

So, what's the deal with lotion and spray tans?

Well, let's dive in like we're jumping into a pool of sunless tanner (but please, don't actually do that. It's not a good idea.).

First things first, lotion can be your best friend or your worst enemy when it comes to spray tans. It all depends on what kind of lotion we're talking about. If you're using a moisturizer that's thick and creamy, you're basically asking for trouble. It's like trying to paint a wall with peanut butter. It's just not gonna work out.

On the other hand, if you're using a lightweight, fast-absorbing lotion, you're in business. It's like applying a base coat before you paint your nails. It helps the tanner stick to your skin and gives you an even, gorgeous glow. Plus, it helps prevent that dreaded 'tiger stripe' effect that can happen when your skin is dry.

But when should you apply this magical, skin-saving lotion?

Well, here's where things get a bit tricky. You want your skin to be clean and dry before you get your spray tan, but you also don't want it to be so dry that it's flaking off like a snake shedding its skin. So, what's a girl (or guy) to do?

Here's a little trick I like to use: shower, shave, and exfoliate the night before your spray tan. This gives your skin time to calm down and stop being all 'OMG, you just scrubbed me like a pot!' about it. Then, about 15-30 minutes before your spray tan, apply a thin layer of that lightweight lotion I was talking about. It's like giving your skin a little hug before it gets its tan on.

Learn Should You Put Lotion on Before a Spray Tan? — Let's Glow

But what about those pesky, dry bits? You know, the ones that make you look like you've got some sort of weird, tan-related disease? Well, those are best tackled with a targeted approach. Use a little bit of lotion on those areas, but not so much that it's like a slip 'n slide down there. You want to moisturize, not create a tan-resistant barrier.

Now, let's talk about the big no-no's

First off, don't use any kind of lotion, cream, or moisturizer right before your spray tan. It's like trying to paint a wall that's already got a fresh coat of wax on it. It's just not gonna work out.

And please, for the love of all that is holy, don't use any kind of lotion, cream, or moisturizer that contains oil. It's like trying to tan through a layer of sunscreen. It's just not gonna happen. You'll end up with patchy, uneven tan that'll make you want to cry into your fake-bake.

Lotion Before Spray Tan? Prep Tips for a Flawless Glow Skin

And while we're at it, let's talk about deodorant. Yes, you read that right. Deodorant. It's like the forgotten stepchild of the self-tanning world. But it's important! So, don't put on deodorant right before your spray tan. It's like trying to tan through a layer of... well, you get the picture. Just wait until after your tan has developed before you apply your deodorant.

So, what's the final word on lotion and spray tans?

Well, my friends, the moral of the story is this: lotion can be your best friend when it comes to spray tans, but you've got to use it wisely. It's all about timing, application, and knowing your skin. And remember, if all else fails, you can always rock the pasty look. It's in fashion, right? (No, it's not. Please, don't do that.)

Now go forth, spray tan warriors, and conquer the world with your gorgeous, even glow. And remember, if you've got any questions, your spray tan technician is always there to help. They're like the fairy godmother of fake tans, after all.