Spray Tan Prep + Aftercare Tips: How to Make Your Tan Last All Weekend at Gull Lake
- Kelsey LaVergne
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
Planning a weekend at Gull Lake? Whether you’re heading to a wedding, bachelorette party, or just soaking up the summer vibes, nothing completes your look like a flawless, long-lasting spray tan.
At Bronze Allure Spray Tan, we specialize in luxury airbrush tanning for clients in Gull Lake, Kalamazoo, and the surrounding Michigan area. One of the most common questions we get: “How do I make my spray tan last all weekend?”
The secret comes down to proper spray tan prep and aftercare. Below, we’re sharing expert tips to help you get the most out of your bronze glow:

Why Spray Tan Prep Matters for a Lasting Glow
Your spray tan is only as good as your skin prep. Smooth, clean skin ensures the solution applies evenly and lasts longer. Here’s how to prepare before your appointment:
1. Exfoliate 24–48 Hours Before
Gently exfoliate your entire body using a non-oil-based scrub or exfoliating mitt. Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. This removes dead skin cells and creates the perfect canvas.
2. Avoid Lotion, Oils, and Makeup
On the day of your spray tan, skin should be free of lotions, oils, deodorants, and makeup. These can act as barriers, preventing the tanning solution from absorbing properly.
3. Shave or Wax 24 Hours Prior
Shaving or waxing too close to your appointment can leave skin sensitive or create unevenness. Aim to complete hair removal at least 24 hours in advance.
What to Wear to Your Spray Tan Appointment
When visiting Bronze Allure Spray Tan near Gull Lake, we recommend:
Loose, dark clothing
Open-toed sandals
Avoiding tight bras or leggings right after your session
This minimizes the risk of rubbing off your fresh tan.
Aftercare Tips: How to Make Your Spray Tan Last Through the Weekend
Once you’ve gotten your signature airbrush tan at Bronze Allure, here’s how to keep it looking flawless:
1. Wait Before Showering
Follow the specific rinse time your spray tan artist recommends. For express tans, this is usually 2–4 hours. For standard tans, it’s 8–12 hours. Avoid getting wet before rinsing!
2. First Shower: Lukewarm Water Only
Skip soaps, scrubs, and hot water during your first shower. Rinse gently until the bronzer washes away, pat dry with a towel (no rubbing).
3. Moisturize Daily with Oil-Free Lotion
Hydrated skin helps lock in your tan. Opt for a high-quality, oil-free moisturizer twice a day. Avoid lotions with mineral oil, alcohol, or fragrance, as these can fade your color.
4. Avoid Pools, Hot Tubs, and Lake Water
We get it—it’s tempting to jump into Gull Lake. But chlorine and lake water can strip your spray tan early. If you do swim, rinse off right away and moisturize immediately after.
5. Use a Gentle, Tan-Safe Body Wash
Harsh soaps and exfoliators will fade your spray tan faster. Choose sulfate-free, moisturizing cleansers to extend the life of your glow.
Bonus Pro Tip: Book a Hydration Add-On
At Bronze Allure Spray Tan, we offer hydrating finishing sprays and luxury service upgrades designed to seal in your color. This extra moisture layer helps your tan stay smooth and streak-free, especially during hot Michigan summers. This is the ultimate spray tan tip for keeping your glow during your gull lake summer!
Ready for Your Best Gull Lake Glow?
A little preparation goes a long way! By following these spray tan prep and aftercare tips, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting bronze from Friday through Sunday (and beyond).
👉 Book your luxury spray tan in Gull Lake or Kalamazoo today at www.bronzeallurespraytan.com.







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