One of the most important steps in achieving an even, streak-free tan is proper skin preparation, and that includes shaving or waxing. But here’s where things get tricky: When should you do it? Before or after? How soon is too soon?
Many people are unsure about the right timing, leading to common mistakes that can leave them with patchy, uneven results. But don’t worry, we’re here to clear up all the confusion so you can get that perfect glow without any mishaps. Let’s dive in!
Can You Shave After a Spray Tan?
Shaving after a spray tan is not ideal, especially if your tan is fresh. Shaving acts as a mild exfoliant, meaning every time you glide that razor over your skin, you’re removing layers of your tan along with the hair. The result? Uneven fading, blotchy patches, and a tan that won’t last as long.
If you absolutely must shave, try to wait at least seven days after your spray tan session. By this time, your tan will have started to fade naturally, so you’ll reduce the risk of ruining your results.
Can You Wax After a Spray Tan?
Waxing after a spray tan? Big mistake! Similar to shaving, waxing can remove dead skin, which means it’ll strip away your tan. If you wax post tan, don’t be surprised if you’re left with lighter patches or an overall uneven look.
So what’s the solution? Wax before your spray tan, not after. This gives your skin time to recover and allows your pores to close, preventing the spray solution from settling into open follicles (which can cause a flecked look).
Can I Shave 2 Hours Before Instant Tan?
What if you’re in a rush and just realized you forgot to shave? Should you grab a razor right before your session?
The answer is no, and here’s why:
- Shaving right before a spray tan can cause irritation, leading to redness or sensitivity when the spray solution is applied.
- Freshly shaved skin has open pores, which can cause the spray tan to settle unevenly, creating a dotty effect.
- Your skin needs time to rebalance its natural oils, which helps the tan develop smoothly.
How Long Before a Spray Tan Should You Shave?
For the best results, shave 24 hours before your spray tan session. This window gives your skin time to recover while still ensuring a smooth surface to which the spray solution can adhere.
I Forgot to Shave Before a Spray Tan. What Should I Do?
If you forgot to shave, don’t panic! You can still get a spray tan even with a little bit of hair. There’s no rule against it, but be aware that your results may not be as smooth or flawless as they could be. If you’re aiming for the best possible tan, it’s best to postpone your session to another day to prep your skin properly.
Is it Better to Shave or Wax for Spray Tanning?
The choice between shaving and waxing comes down to personal preference. Both methods work fine as long as they’re done at least 24 hours before your tanning session.
Tips to Prepare Like a Pro for a Spray Tanning Session
As you’ve seen, preparation is key to getting the best possible spray tan results. While there aren’t too many steps involved, they need to be done correctly. To help you out, we’ve put together a detailed spray tan preparation guide so you can achieve that perfect glow with ease.
And remember, your spray tan is most sensitive right after application. What you wear after your session can impact how long your tan lasts and how evenly it develops. Be sure to check out our tips on choosing the right clothing for a spray tan session!
What Happens If You Get a Spray Tan with Stubble?
So, you forgot to shave or wax before your spray tan. Now what? Will your tan still turn out okay, or will stubble ruin your results? A little stubble won’t completely sabotage your tan, but it can cause a few issues:
- Uneven Absorption: The spray solution may adhere more to the skin than the hair, which can make stubbly areas appear darker or slightly patchy.
- Speckled or Dotted Appearance: Freshly shaved pores can trap spray solution, leading to a dotted effect, especially on the legs. Stubble can sometimes create a similar issue if the hair is coarse.
- Shorter Longevity: If you shave too soon after your spray tan, you may remove the top layer of color along with the stubble, causing the tan to fade faster.
Final Thoughts
Achieving a flawless, long-lasting spray tan isn’t just about the application. It starts with proper skin prep. Whether you prefer shaving or waxing, timing is everything. Shaving too soon before or after your session can lead to irritation and uneven fading, while waxing post-tan is a surefire way to strip away your glow. The golden rule? Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your spray tan for the best results.
