The Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide to Spray Tanning

spray tan tipsclient guides
Written By Sarah Mills

Whether you're prepping for a special event or simply want to feel like the glowy, confident version of yourself, getting a spray tan is one of the quickest ways to level up your mood and your skin. But if you’re new to spray tanning, it’s normal to feel a little nervous — What color? What do I wear? Do I need to prep? Will I look orange?!

Take a deep breath, babe. I’ve got you.
Here’s everything you need to know before your first appointment at Blissfully Bronzed — stress-free, beginner-friendly, and glow-approved.

Do I Need to Choose a Color Before I Book?

Nope! I customize your tan for you.

I look at your:

  • Skin tone + undertones

  • Natural tanning habits

  • Lifestyle

  • Event (and the vibe you want!)

  • Depth of color you're comfortable with

This is something we decide together during your appointment. You don’t need to know any of this beforehand — choosing a shade is part of the service.

What Happens During Your Appointment

When you arrive, I walk you through everything:

1. A quick consultation

We talk about your goals:

  • Do you want to look freshly bronzed?

  • Or like you just got back from a week in Aruba?

  • Natural? Deep? Just a little glow?

This helps me pick the perfect solution and customize it for your skin.

2. Prepping in the room

I give you privacy to undress to your comfort level. Whatever you prefer — nude, swimsuit, sports bra, pasties — this is YOUR comfort zone.

3. The spray tan itself

It takes around 20 minutes. I’ll guide you through the poses and blend everything flawlessly. No weird lines, no orange, no splotches.

4. A finishing touch: Bliss Dust

I lightly dust you with my signature post-tan drying powder, Bliss Dust, to absorb stickiness, prevent creasing, and keep you comfortable while your tan develops.

Prep Before Your Appointment (Super Simple!)

You’ll get the best results if you:

  • Exfoliate 24 hours prior

  • Shave/wax at least 24 hours before

  • Come with clean skin (no makeup, lotion, oils, deodorant, or perfume)

  • Wear dark, loose clothing to your appointment

No need to overthink it — I’ll guide you through everything.

Aftercare: How to Make Your Tan Last

Your first rinse will be in 2–8 hours depending on the solution. After that:

  • Avoid hot showers for 24 hours

  • Moisturize twice daily with tan-safe lotions (CeraVe, Vanicream, Cetaphil, Hempz Pure & Simple)

  • Avoid mineral oil products

  • Skip Dove, Olay, EOS, Suave, and Eucerin until your tan fades

With the right care, your tan lasts 7–10 days, sometimes longer!

Is a Trial Tan a Good Idea?

If you're tanning for:

  • A wedding

  • A vacation

  • Photoshoot

  • Big event

I always recommend a trial tan to test depth and timing. Sometimes it takes one or two tans to find your perfect custom shade — that’s totally normal!

Final Thoughts: You’re in Good Hands

My favorite thing about first-timers is watching their confidence glow the second they look in the mirror. You deserve to feel comfortable, supported, and informed — and that’s exactly what you get here.

If you have questions before booking, message me anytime.
If you’re ready to uplift your mood… your spot is waiting.

Sarah Mills
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