Prep & Aftercare
When to Shave or Wax Before a Spray Tan
Hair removal and spray tanning are best friends only when they're scheduled properly. The studio's rule: shave or wax at least 24 hours before your appointment. Here's the reasoning and how to plan around it.
Why 24 hours matters
- Shaving and waxing lightly irritate the skin and open the pores; spraying too soon after can cause stinging and speckled color.
- Freshly shaved skin can grab solution unevenly, showing as tiny dark dots where follicles sit.
- Waiting at least 24 hours lets skin calm down so application is smooth and even.
Planning your timeline
- Waxing? Book it at least 24–48 hours before your tan — waxing needs a little more recovery time than shaving.
- Shaving? The day before your appointment is ideal.
- After your tan, hold off on shaving until after your first rinse, and use a fresh, sharp razor with light pressure to avoid stripping color.
If you shave after your tan
Shaving exfoliates lightly, so frequent shaving will fade your tan faster — especially on the legs. Keep strokes gentle, use a rich shave gel, and moisturize afterward to stretch your color further.
Common questions
Can I shave the same day as my spray tan?
It's best not to. Shave at least 24 hours prior to prevent irritation and ensure smooth application.
Should I wax instead of shave before a tan?
Either works — both should be finished at least 24 hours before your appointment. Waxing is best done 24–48 hours ahead.
Related service
Specialists' Signature
$50+ · 20+ min
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