How To Prep For a Spray Tan In Florida ✧ AKA The ONLY Guide That Actually Works Is Here!
Preparing for a spray tan in Florida isn’t the same as prepping anywhere else.
The humidity, the heat, the sweat…all of it affects how your skin holds color.
And if you’ve ever followed generic online prep tips that feel like a mile long (not to be too dramatic) and still ended up streaky or patchy, it’s not your fault.
Most advice is written for dry climates or controlled environments, not Port St. Lucie, where your skin behaves differently the second you step outside.
At The Glow Haven, I prep you based on your skin barrier, your routine, and the Florida weather, because that’s what creates a tan that actually lasts.
Here’s the real prep routine that works in PSL: backed by skin science, technique, and hundreds of results to prove it.
1. Start Hydrating Days Before (Not the Day Of)
Hydration isn’t a quick fix.
If the skin is dry or “tight” feeling, your tan can cling to those certain areas and fade faster.
Florida humidity tricks people into thinking their skin is hydrated when it’s actually dehydrated underneath.
The routine that works:
• hydrate consistently 48-72 hours before
• use a lightweight, spray tan safe moisturizer (Aqua based lotions are usually golden for this, no pun intended)
• avoid heavy oils and butters
• drink water throughout the day, cheers
A balanced skin barrier holds color longer…period.
2. Exfoliate Correctly (Most People Don’t)
Over exfoliating creates uneven absorption.
Under exfoliating leaves patchy spots that no one wants.
The Florida approved method:
• exfoliate 24 hours before
• use an oil-free scrub or exfoliating mitt
• leave behind no (zero!!) residue
• focus on elbows, ankles, chest, and arms
Your skin should feel smooth and even…not stripped!
3. Keep Your pH Balanced
Your pH determines how DHA (the tanning ingredient) reacts on your skin.
Florida’s heat and sweat can throw your pH off quickly.
To avoid uneven results:
• no bar soap
• no Dove
• no heavy fragrance washes
• no fresh shaving right before
Use a sulfate-free cleanser for your rinse before your appointment. my fav pro tip is to use an exfoliating mitt with nothing on it as the last step before you hop out of the shower. this helps remove any lingering barriers from soap, razors, etc and gives your skin a stable foundation for the tan.
4. Skip Lotion, Makeup, Oils, and Deodorant Before Your Tan
Anything on the skin becomes a barrier.
In Florida humidity, barriers become even more unpredictable.
Right before your appointment:
• no lotion
• no makeup
• no deodorant
• no perfume
• no oils
Come with clean, product free skin for the best absorption and smoothest development. if you have any leftover makeup or deodorant on, no worries. I come with prep wipes that are ready to remove anything you need before we start.
5. Choose Clothing That Helps Your Tan Set Properly
Humidity slows down dry time.
The right outfit helps your tan settle.
Wear:
• loose cotton shorts or joggers
• a flowy tee or oversized crew
• slides or flip-flops
Avoid:
• sports bras
• leggings
• tight waistbands
• fabrics that trap sweat
Let your skin breathe while your tan develops. Our fave rule of thumb is the comfier the outfit is, the better.
6. Plan Your Schedule Around Sweat & Showers
Florida sweat hits different, especially after a fresh tan.
For best results:
• avoid workouts for 24 hours
• avoid outdoor heat right after your appointment (good thing we come to you)
• avoid skin-to-skin contact while developing
• follow your assigned rinse window and trust the process
If you run warm, I’ll choose a formula that resists sweat.
Prep + formula + technique = long-lasting color.
7. Trust a Custom Formula, Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution
At The Glow Haven, your prep is only half the magic.
The other half is that no two clients ever receive the same blend. does everyone use the same makeup brand? i didnt think so. If different skin types need different foundations to look their best, why would I (or anyone) use the same spray tan solution for everyone?
I adjust your solution based on:
• your current skin’s needs
• dryness vs. oiliness
• pore visibility
• sweat patterns
• undertone
• the current weather
• your event timeline
Florida requires a completely different approach than most states, and that’s exactly why your tan lasts longer when it’s customized intentionally.
THE BOTTOM LINE
A long-lasting tan in Florida isn’t random.
It’s the result of proper prep, your skin’s needs being complimented, and humidity proof technique.
Follow this routine and you’ll see smoother development, longer wear, and an even fade…hether it’s january, hurricane season, or a PSL heat wave.
When your prep matches your climate, your glow finally lasts.
Serving Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Jensen Beach, Stuart, palm city & surrounding Treasure Coast areas.
✧ Book $15 off your first glow: theglowhaventan.com ✧ call/Text: (772) 342-8222 if assistance is needed.