When planning a wedding, achieving that flawless, radiant glow is often high on the priority list. Brides want to feel confident and stunning on their big day, and a spray tan can be the perfect way to give them that extra boost. But how can you ensure your tan looks natural and flawless? What should you avoid, and when should you book your tan for the best results? That’s where a bridal spray tan comes into play, helping you get a gorgeous, sun-kissed look without the risk of UV damage.
A Spray of Rays, a seasoned expert in designing bridal spray tan services for weddings, has curated this guide to answer all your questions and set you up for success. Here’s everything you need to know about perfecting your wedding spray tan so that you walk down the aisle glowing inside and out.
Timing Your Bridal Spray Tan Right
Wondering when to book your spray tan session? Timing is everything, and scheduling it too early or too late can affect how fresh and even your tan appears on your wedding day. The general rule of thumb for brides is to get their spray tan two to three days before the wedding. This gives the tan time to settle and develop into a natural-looking shade while avoiding the risk of any fresh product rubbing off on your dress.
If you’re booking your first-ever bridal spray tan, it’s wise to schedule a trial run a few weeks before the wedding. This allows you to test the color and ensure it’s the right match for your skin tone. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing how the tan fades over time.
Choosing The Right Shade for Your Wedding Spray Tan
One size does not fit all when it comes to spray tans, especially for your wedding. You don’t want to look too orange or too dark in photos—your goal is a healthy, radiant glow that complements your natural skin tone. A Spray of Rays recommends working with a professional who understands bridal spray tans and can help choose the perfect shade. You’ll want a color that enhances your complexion, not one that overwhelms it.
When selecting the right tone, it’s essential to keep in mind the lighting at your venue and whether your wedding will be indoors or outdoors. Indoor weddings might benefit from a slightly deeper tone since artificial light can wash out color, while outdoor weddings look best with a more natural, sun-kissed hue.
Pre-Tan Skin Prep: The Secret to a Smooth Finish
Prepping your skin before a bridal spray tan is key to achieving a smooth, even finish. Exfoliating your skin helps remove any dead skin cells, ensuring that the tanning solution goes on evenly. This step should be done 24 hours before your appointment, as exfoliating on the day of the tan might irritate the skin.
Moisturizing is also a crucial part of pre-tan prep. However, avoid lotions, perfumes, and deodorants on the day of the tan itself, as these can create barriers on the skin and cause uneven results. Make sure you shave or wax at least a day before your spray tan to avoid streaks or patchy areas where hair removal has just occurred. And remember, when it comes to your bridal spray tan, clean skin is the canvas that yields the best results.
Clothing Matters: What to Wear Before and After Your Spray Tan
Choosing the right outfit for your bridal spray tan appointment is more important than you might think. You’ll want to avoid any tight or restrictive clothing, as these can cause streaks or rub the tan off before it sets. Loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabric like cotton are your best bet.
After your session, make sure to stay in loose, dark clothing for at least six to eight hours while the tan develops. Some brides may even choose to sleep in their post-tan attire if their appointment is in the evening. The last thing you want is a gorgeous wedding spray tan marred by tight clothing lines or smudges!
Aftercare Tips: Keeping Your Bridal Spray Tan Fresh
Once your spray tan has been applied, proper aftercare is essential to maintaining its vibrancy for the big day. After the recommended development time (usually six to eight hours), rinse off the initial bronzer with lukewarm water—no soap or scrubbing, please! This first rinse might seem light, but it’s just the surface color coming off.
To keep your wedding spray tan fresh and long-lasting, moisturize your skin daily, using a lotion that’s free of oils and alcohol. Avoid long hot baths or any excessive scrubbing, which can cause your tan to fade unevenly. If your wedding is a few days away, consider using a gradual tanning lotion to keep the glow going without having to book another full spray tan session.
Bridal Spray Tan Trials: Why They’re Non-Negotiable
Thinking about skipping the trial spray tan to save time? Think again. Having a trial is the only way to guarantee that you’ll love your tan on your wedding day. Even if you’ve had spray tan before, a bridal spray tan is different—it needs to be perfect, not just passable.
At your trial, discuss any specific concerns or preferences with your technician. Do you want a subtle glow or a deeper bronze? Will your wedding dress show off your legs, arms, or back? Knowing these details helps the technician focus on the areas that will be most visible. Don’t be afraid to speak up during your trial—this is your opportunity to make sure everything is exactly how you want it for the big day.
The Importance of Hydrated Skin for a Perfect Wedding Spray Tan
Dry skin is one of the biggest culprits behind patchy or uneven spray tans. Hydration is key before and after the tanning process to achieve that flawless finish. Drink plenty of water leading up to your wedding day and incorporate a hydrating skincare routine in the weeks prior to your tan.
Make sure to moisturize your skin regularly, but as mentioned earlier, avoid using any lotions or oils on the day of your bridal spray tan. Afterward, lock in the color by keeping your skin moisturized and supple. A well-hydrated tan looks smoother, more even, and lasts longer.
The No-No List: What to Avoid Before and After Your Tan
To make sure your bridal spray tan stays picture-perfect, there are a few things you’ll want to avoid. For starters, don’t apply any makeup, deodorant, or lotion before your appointment, as these can create patches and uneven color. Once your tan is applied, skip the gym or any activity that causes sweating for at least 24 hours.
Swimming, long showers, and hot tubs should also be avoided, as prolonged exposure to water can make your wedding spray tan fade faster. It’s also best to steer clear of exfoliants and harsh soaps until after the wedding, as these can wear away your tan unevenly.
Getting The Glow Without the Hassle
Spray tans have come a long way from their early days of streaks and orange hues. Modern bridal spray tans are customizable, easy to maintain, and the ideal way to achieve that perfect glow for your wedding day. By following these tips and working with a trusted professional, you can be sure that your tan will look natural and beautiful in photos while making you feel confident as you say “I do.”
With the right preparation, you can enjoy the benefits of a gorgeous wedding spray tan without any of the typical worries. And remember, A Spray of Rays has made it their mission to design spray tans that cater specifically to brides, ensuring you get that flawless finish.
