By If you’ve ever asked yourself what to wear to spray tan, you’re not alone. Many people underestimate how much clothing can affect the outcome of their tan. From streaks to smudges, the wrong outfit can ruin that perfect sun-kissed finish.
A spray tan is an investment in your appearance — it enhances your glow, boosts your confidence, and gives your skin that healthy radiance. But to make it last, you need to prepare your skin and choose your outfit wisely.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to wear to spray tan before, during, and after your appointment to ensure a flawless and long-lasting result.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Outfit
Spray tanning solutions contain active ingredients like DHA (dihydroxyacetone) that react with your skin to create a bronzed color. During the first few hours after application, this solution is still developing — which means it can easily transfer onto clothing.
Wearing tight or rough fabrics can rub against your skin, causing uneven patches or streaks. That’s why knowing what to wear to spray tan can make the difference between a seamless glow and a splotchy mess.
Your goal is comfort, breathability, and minimal contact with your skin.
What to Wear Before Your Spray Tan Appointment
Before your appointment, your clothing choice should make your preparation routine easier.
Here’s what to consider:
- Loose-fitting clothing: Choose flowy dresses, oversized t-shirts, or soft joggers. Avoid anything tight, like leggings or jeans.
- Easy-to-remove footwear: Flip-flops or slides are best. Skip socks or sneakers that trap moisture.
- Dark colors: The tanning solution can stain clothing, so darker shades help hide any transfer.
- No jewelry: Remove necklaces, bracelets, or watches to prevent tan lines.
Wearing the right outfit beforehand ensures you’re relaxed, comfortable, and ready for the best tan possible.
What to Wear During Your Spray Tan
When you arrive for your appointment, your technician will give you options for what to wear during the spray tan itself.
Typically, you can wear:
- Disposable underwear or bikini bottoms (often provided by salons).
- Your own dark swimsuit if you’re comfortable with tan lines.
- Go nude if you want a completely even tan with no lines.
The choice depends on your comfort level. Many ask what to wear to spray tan sessions if they’re modest — and the answer is simple: wear as much or as little as you feel comfortable with, but remember that clothing or straps will leave lines.
Also, avoid tight undergarments that could leave marks on your skin immediately after the application.
What to Wear After a Spray Tan Appointment
This is where most people make mistakes. After your tan, your skin needs time to absorb and develop the solution evenly.
The best what to wear to spray tan advice post-session includes:
- Loose cotton clothing: Think maxi dresses, soft t-shirts, or relaxed loungewear.
- Avoid tight elastic bands: Skip bras, leggings, and waistbands that can rub off your tan.
- Open footwear: Sandals or slides let your feet breathe and prevent streaking.
- Dark colors only: DHA stains are tough to remove, so darker fabrics are your best friend.
Comfortable, breathable, and dark-colored outfits help your tan develop beautifully without interference.
The Best Fabrics to Wear After a Spray Tan
Knowing what to wear to spray tan is also about choosing the right fabrics. The ideal materials should be lightweight, natural, and gentle on the skin.
- Cotton: Soft, breathable, and absorbent. Perfect for minimizing friction.
- Bamboo: Hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking, keeping your skin cool.
- Silk or satin blends: While smooth, avoid real silk immediately post-tan since it can stain.
- Avoid synthetics: Polyester or spandex can trap heat and moisture, ruining your tan.
Opt for materials that let your skin breathe while protecting your new tan from smudging.
What Not to Wear After a Spray Tan
Just as important as what to wear is knowing what not to wear. The wrong choices can quickly undo your hard work.
Here’s what to avoid:
- Tight jeans or leggings: They can rub against your tan and cause uneven fading.
- Underwire bras or sports bras: These can leave marks across your back and chest.
- Closed shoes or socks: They trap moisture and cause streaky ankles or feet.
- Synthetic fabrics: These don’t allow airflow and can cause sweating or patchiness.
- Heavy perfumes or lotions: These can react with the tan and affect color development.
By avoiding these, you’re ensuring your tan remains flawless and lasts longer.
What to Wear to Bed After a Spray Tan
Your tan continues to develop for several hours after application, even while you sleep.
So, if you’re wondering what to wear to spray tan when going to bed, here’s the answer:
- Loose pajamas or a soft cotton nightgown: These reduce friction and let your skin breathe.
- Avoid tight waistbands: Choose sleepwear without elastic around the waist or cuffs.
- Dark sheets: Spray tan residue can transfer onto bedding, so use dark-colored linens.
If you must sleep before rinsing your tan, avoid heavy sweating and stay cool to prevent uneven development.
Extra Tips for Maintaining Your Tan Through Clothing Choices
Even after the first 24 hours, your clothing can continue to affect your tan.
Follow these ongoing what to wear to spray tan tips to extend your glow:
- Avoid tight collars or straps: They can cause friction and lighten certain areas.
- Moisturize daily: Hydrated skin helps your tan last longer.
- Pat dry after showering: Never rub your towel harshly.
- Choose soft fabrics: Rough materials can exfoliate your tan prematurely.
By being mindful of your clothing choices, you’ll keep that bronzed look glowing for days longer.
Common Mistakes People Make With Spray Tan Outfits
Even experienced tanners make simple mistakes that lead to uneven results.
Here’s what to avoid:
- Wearing tight clothes too soon: This is the most common mistake that ruins a perfect tan.
- Skipping loose underwear: Synthetic or tight lingerie can cause friction lines.
- Forgetting about accessories: Watch straps, jewelry, or handbags can rub off product.
- Putting on makeup too early: Let your tan settle before applying any products.
- Wearing perfume or deodorant: They can react with the tanning formula and cause discoloration.
Avoiding these pitfalls ensures your tan looks professional and smooth from head to toe.
Conclusion
Knowing what to wear to spray tan is more important than many realize. The right clothing can help your tan develop evenly, last longer, and look more natural — while the wrong outfit can cause streaks, smudges, and unwanted lines.
To recap:
- Wear loose, dark, and breathable fabrics before and after tanning.
- Avoid tight, synthetic, or light-colored clothing.
- Let your tan set properly before dressing up.
A flawless tan isn’t just about the product or technique — it’s about preparation and aftercare. By choosing the right outfit and treating your skin gently, you’ll achieve that enviable, glowing complexion every time.
FAQs
1. What should I wear to a spray tan appointment?
Wear loose, dark-colored clothing and open shoes. Avoid tight jeans, bras, or leggings that can rub your skin after tanning.
2. Can I wear a bra during a spray tan?
You can, but it may cause tan lines. Many prefer to go braless or wear a strapless top for even coverage.
3. How long after a spray tan can I wear regular clothes?
Wait at least 6–8 hours before wearing tight clothing. This gives your tan time to set and prevents streaks.
4. What should I wear to bed after a spray tan?
Choose loose cotton pajamas or a soft nightgown, and use dark sheets to avoid staining.
5. Why should I wear dark colors to my spray tan appointment?
Tanning solutions can stain clothing, and dark colors help hide any transfer marks.
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