What To Wear For A Spray Tan: Complete Guide & Key Details
So, you're ready to get that sun-kissed glow without the actual sun. Smart move! But then the dreaded question pops up: What on earth do I wear to a spray tan appointment? It’s a surprisingly big deal. Let's dive in, shall we?
This isn't rocket science, but it feels like it sometimes, right? We've all been there, staring into our closets. The fear of a messy tan or an awkward appointment looms. But fear not, fellow sun-seekers! I’m here to guide you.
Think of it as preparing for a spa day. You want to be comfortable. You want to be practical. And maybe, just maybe, you want to look a little bit cute, even if no one will see you for long. That last part might be an unpopular opinion, but I’m sticking to it.
The Golden Rule: Loose and Dark
This is the mantra. Repeat it. Tattoo it on your brain. Loose clothing is your best friend. Dark colors are your guardian angels.
Why loose? Because the tan is still wet, technically. It’s like a magical bronzing paint. You don’t want that paint sticking to tight fabrics. This can lead to streaks. And nobody wants streaky tan lines. Especially not the accidental kind.
Why dark? Because there’s a chance, however small, of some bronzer transferring. It's usually washable, but why risk it? You’re going for glow, not a tie-dye experiment with your favorite white tee. Trust me on this one.
The Perfect Pre-Tan Outfit
So, what does this golden rule translate to? Think comfy pants. Think baggy shirts. Think flowy dresses.
For the ladies, a loose-fitting sundress is a winner. Or a pair of wide-leg linen pants with a relaxed t-shirt. The key is zero constriction. You want air to circulate. This helps the tan set properly.
For the gents, it’s pretty straightforward. Basketball shorts? Perfect. A loose graphic tee? Absolutely. Think weekend vibes. You’re about to get a vacation-ready tan, so dress the part.
What to Absolutely Avoid
Now, let’s talk about the villains. The things that will sabotage your tan dreams. First up: tight jeans. Unless they’re made of the stretchiest material known to humankind, steer clear.
Stiff fabrics are also a no-go. Think starched collars or anything that feels restrictive. You’re not going to a job interview; you’re getting bronzed. Let loose!
And please, for the love of all that is golden, avoid light colors. White, beige, pastels. They are the enemy. They are a magnet for bronzer. You’ll regret it. Your therapist might even mention it later.
Footwear Follies
Don’t forget your feet! They deserve a tan too. This means open-toed shoes are your best bet. Think flip-flops or sandals.
Why? Because you don’t want the spray tan solution to get smushed into weird lines on your toes. Those little tan lines between your toes are not a good look. It’s a surprisingly common mistake.
Avoid sneakers. Avoid boots. Basically, anything that covers your whole foot and ankle. You’re essentially trying to let your feet breathe and tan freely. Like tiny little sunbathing tootsies.
My personal go-to? A ridiculously oversized t-shirt and my comfiest pair of pajama pants. Yes, I look like I’m about to raid the fridge at 3 AM. But my tan is always flawless. It’s a trade-off I’m willing to make.
The Post-Tan Journey Home
The appointment is done. You’re glowing. Now comes the crucial part: getting home without messing it up. This is where your chosen outfit really shines.
Remember that loose, dark clothing? It’s essential for this phase. You’ll likely be told not to shower for several hours. So, you’ll be wearing your tan out and about.
Imagine wearing a white linen shirt home. Now imagine a faint bronzer transfer. Not ideal. Stick to your dark, comfy choices. They are your shield against accidental tanning mishaps.
Undergarments: To Wear or Not to Wear?
This is a frequently asked question. And the answer is: it depends. Most salons will provide you with disposable thongs. These are usually a good option.
They are designed to minimize tan lines. And they are, well, disposable. So, no need to worry about ruining your favorite undies. This is a win-win situation.
If you’re not comfortable with the disposable option, or if you have a specific tan line you want to avoid, you can wear your own dark, seamless underwear. Just make sure it’s not too tight.
Some people opt for going commando. This is perfectly fine too, especially if you’re wearing a dress or a skirt. Just be prepared for the tan technician to ask about your preference. They’ve seen it all.
Hair Ties and Accessories: Keep it Simple
What about your hair? You don’t want tan spray in your locks. Most salons will offer a shower cap or hairnet. Use it!
Keep your hair tied up and out of the way. A loose bun or ponytail works well. Again, think about keeping it contained. You want the tan on your skin, not your hair.
As for accessories, keep them to a minimum. Jewelry can create tan lines. Remove any rings, bracelets, or necklaces before your session. You can always put them back on afterward.
The Unspoken Agreement with the Tan Tech
Your spray tan technician is a professional. They are there to make you look amazing. They have a routine. You have a role to play.
Your role is to show up in the right attire. This makes their job easier. And it ensures you get the best possible tan. It’s a team effort, really.
So, be ready. Be comfortable. And embrace the slightly disheveled, but ultimately glowing, look you’ll have on your way home. It’s all part of the process.
I once saw someone show up in a white sundress. The poor technician looked like they were about to have a minor heart attack. Please, for the sake of everyone involved, wear dark. It’s not a fashion show, it’s a tan-ification ceremony.
The Takeaway: Comfort is King (or Queen!)
Ultimately, the most important thing is your comfort. If you’re stressed and uncomfortable in what you’re wearing, it can affect your experience.
Choose something that makes you feel at ease. Something that allows you to relax and enjoy the pampering. A good spray tan is a treat. It should feel like one.
So, ditch the tight clothes. Embrace the bagginess. And get ready to glow. You’ve got this. Now go forth and get your bronze on!