A perfect vacation deserves perfect skin. Whether you’re heading to Brazil’s beaches or an island escape, nothing boosts confidence like a flawless glow. But getting a spray tan before vacation takes more than just a quick appointment — it’s about timing, preparation, and aftercare to keep that radiant color fresh from takeoff to touchdown.

Here’s your complete, practical guide to making your glow last throughout your trip.

1. Time Your Tan Right

The ideal time to schedule your spray tan before vacation is 1–2 days before your flight. This allows your tan to fully develop (typically 8–12 hours after application) and gives you one full day to shower and let the color settle evenly.

Avoid getting a spray tan on the same day as your flight — changes in humidity, tight clothes, and long hours sitting can cause uneven patches or transfer.

2. Exfoliate Like a Pro

Smooth, clean skin equals an even tan. Exfoliate 24 hours before your appointment using a natural scrub — sugar, sea salt, or coffee grounds mixed with coconut oil. Focus on elbows, knees, ankles, and wrists to remove dry skin.

A gentle exfoliation creates the perfect base for your Brazilian tan, helping the formula absorb evenly and last longer.

3. Skip Lotions, Perfumes, and Deodorant

On tanning day, show up with bare, clean skin. Moisturizers, perfumes, or deodorants can interfere with the tanning solution and lead to patchy results.

If you have dry areas, use a light, oil-free moisturizer only on elbows, knees, and ankles.

4. Choose the Right Shade

Going too dark before a sunny trip can look unnatural once your skin starts catching real sun. For a tropical glow that blends perfectly, ask your artist for a medium-to-deep Brazilian tan that matches your undertones.

Your goal is to look radiant — not overly bronzed on day one.

5. Dress for Success

After your tan, wear loose, dark clothing to the airport. Avoid tight straps, shoes, or fabrics that could rub against freshly tanned skin. For flights longer than 3 hours, bring a soft shawl or scarf to prevent friction from seat belts or armrests.

6. Hydrate Before You Fly

Hydration is your tan’s best friend — especially when flying. Cabin air is notoriously dry, and dehydration can cause your tan to fade faster.

Drink plenty of water before and during your flight, and pack a small travel-sized moisturizer to keep your skin smooth. Avoid alcohol and caffeine if possible — they can accelerate fading.

7. Moisturize Daily During Vacation

To make your tan last longer, apply oil-free moisturizer twice daily. Avoid products with mineral oil, alcohol, or fragrances — these can strip color and dry out your skin.

After swimming, pat dry instead of rubbing, and apply aloe vera or lotion to lock in moisture.

8. Shower Smart

After your spray tan Brazil session, wait 8–12 hours before your first rinse — and use lukewarm water, not hot. When showering on vacation, avoid harsh soaps and scrubbing. Gently wash with sulfate-free products to preserve your glow.

9. Sun Smart: SPF Always

Even though you look bronzed, your Brazilian tan doesn’t protect against UV rays. Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen before stepping out — it not only prevents sunburn but also protects your spray tan from fading prematurely.

10. Touch Up Naturally

If your tan starts to fade mid-trip, revive it with a gradual tanning lotion or bronzing mist. Products enriched with aloe or coconut water can even out tone and enhance color naturally without streaking.

Travel-Proof Glow Checklist

Exfoliate 24 hours before your tan
Shave or wax the day before
Avoid lotion and deodorant on tanning day
Wear loose, dark clothes
Stay hydrated during flights
Moisturize daily with oil-free products
Use SPF outdoors

FAQs

1. How soon before a flight should I get my spray tan?
Ideally, 1–2 days before your trip, allowing time for full development and settling.

2. Can I swim after getting a spray tan?
Yes, but wait at least 24 hours. Rinse off saltwater or chlorine and reapply moisturizer afterward.

3. How long does a spray tan last?
Typically 7–10 days, depending on skin prep, hydration, and aftercare.

4. Will my tan fade faster in the sun?
Without hydration and sunscreen, yes. Protect it with SPF and moisturizing after every swim.

5. Can I wear makeup after a spray tan?
Wait until after your first rinse (8–12 hours), then use gentle, hydrating products.