A little preparation can help your sunless tan look more even and develop smoothly. The goal is to start with clean, dry skin that is free of leftover products and loose, flaky patches. Plan exfoliation and showering ahead of your appointment, and keep your routine simple on the day of your session. Follow any specific instructions from your tanning professional, since products and application methods can vary.
Exfoliate Before Your Appointment
Gently exfoliate about a day before your appointment to help lift dry, flaky skin. Pay attention to areas that tend to feel rough, such as elbows, knees, ankles, and feet. Use a soft washcloth or a gentle exfoliating product, and avoid scrubbing hard enough to leave your skin irritated or red.
Skip exfoliating oils and heavy scrubs that leave a coating on the skin. Avoid waxing or shaving immediately before your session if those routines tend to irritate you; ask your studio how much time to leave between hair removal and tanning. On appointment day, smooth skin is helpful, but calm, comfortable skin matters too.
Time Your Shower Carefully
Shower before your appointment so your skin is clean and free of sweat, deodorant, and body products. If you exfoliate in the shower, do it the day before when possible. Give your skin time to settle and dry fully before your session rather than arriving with damp skin.
Avoid showering right before your appointment if you can, especially with very hot water, which may leave skin flushed or uncomfortable. If you need to rinse on the same day, use lukewarm water, dry thoroughly, and leave enough time for your skin to return to its usual temperature. Your tanning professional can advise you if your appointment instructions differ.
Keep Skin Product-Free
On the day of your appointment, avoid applying moisturizer, body oil, perfume, or makeup to the areas being tanned. These products can create a barrier or affect how the solution sits on your skin. Deodorant can also interfere with application, so leave it off if practical and follow the studio’s guidance.
Wear loose, dark clothing that is easy to change in and out of. Tight straps, snug waistbands, and rough fabrics can rub against freshly tanned skin after your session. Bring simple footwear, such as sandals, if appropriate, and avoid accessories that may leave marks where the solution is applied.
Avoid Last-Minute Skin Stress
Do not try a new exfoliant, hair-removal product, or skin treatment just before your appointment. A reaction can leave skin sensitive, patchy, or uncomfortable. If you have a sunburn, rash, open cut, or significant irritation, contact the studio before coming in and ask whether you should reschedule.
Keep your pre-appointment routine straightforward: exfoliate gently in advance, shower with enough time to dry, and arrive with clean skin and minimal products. Glow House in Providence can share preparation instructions for your appointment, including any details specific to its tanning service.
For a more even-looking sunless tan, prepare your skin gently rather than trying to fix dry patches at the last minute. Exfoliate ahead, shower with time to dry, and skip products that may sit on the skin. Check with your tanning studio if you have questions about your routine or skin condition before booking.