The Complete Guide to Spray Tanning at Mad Wax: What to Expect, How to Prep, and How to Maintain Your Glow

Madison Messer
Jun 3
3 min read

Spray tanning has become one of the safest and most effective ways to achieve a sun-kissed glow—without exposure to harmful UV rays. At Mad Wax, our custom airbrush spray tans are applied by hand to ensure an even, streak-free finish tailored to your individual skin tone and preferences.

Whether you’re prepping for a special occasion or simply want a confidence boost, our spray tan services combine cosmetic enhancement with skin health benefits. Here's everything you need to know.

What Makes Our Spray Tan Different?

Not all spray tans are created equal. At Mad Wax, we use a high-quality, organic, vegan, and cruelty-free solution formulated with the Natural Color Complex™—a proprietary blend of skin-loving ingredients designed to enhance both your glow and your skin's health.

Key Benefits of Our Tanning Solution:

Anti-Aging Properties: Infused with Vitamin E and Tomato Fruit Extract, the formula helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and supports a youthful complexion.
Firming & Tightening: Vitamin C encourages collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness.
Hydrating & Soothing: Aloe Vera deeply moisturizes and calms the skin, ensuring a smooth, comfortable finish.

Who Should Consider a Spray Tan?

Spray tans are ideal for anyone looking to safely enhance their skin tone. They’re especially popular for:

Weddings and special events
Vacations and beach trips
Photoshoots or professional headshots
Everyday confidence and self-care

Because our tans are customized for each client, they’re suitable for all skin types and tones.

Spray Tan Prep: How to Prepare for the Best Results

Proper preparation ensures even application and longer-lasting results. Follow these steps leading up to your appointment:

24–48 Hours Before:

Exfoliate your entire body, with extra focus on dry areas like knees, elbows, ankles, and hands. This removes dead skin cells that can interfere with the tan.
Shave or wax at least 24 hours in advance to avoid skin irritation and ensure a smooth base.

Day of Appointment:

Arrive with clean, dry skin—free from lotion, makeup, deodorant, or perfume.
Wear loose, dark clothing and open-toed sandals to avoid smudging or transferring the solution.
Avoid tight items like leggings, underwire bras, or socks that may rub against your skin post-tan.

Aftercare: How to Extend the Life of Your Tan

A high-quality spray tan can last 7–10 days with proper aftercare. To maximize your results:

Wait 8–12 hours before your first shower (unless given specific instructions).
For the first rinse, use warm water only—no soap, scrubs, or body wash.
Gently pat your skin dry after showering; avoid rubbing with a towel.
Moisturize daily with a fragrance-free lotion to maintain hydration and even fading.
Avoid:
- Long, hot showers or baths
- Saunas and steam rooms
- Chlorinated pools
Refrain from exfoliating or using harsh skincare products (retinols, AHAs, acne treatments) on tanned areas.
Minimize shaving. If necessary, use a clean, gentle razor.
Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen when going outdoors—your spray tan won’t protect you from UV rays.

Rebooking & Maintenance

To maintain a consistent glow, we recommend rebooking your spray tan every 7–10 days. Our team can guide you on the right frequency based on your skin type, lifestyle, and desired color depth.

Final Thoughts

At Mad Wax, we’re committed to providing a spray tan experience that is not only safe and comfortable but also nourishing for your skin. From special events to everyday radiance, our custom tans are designed to help you feel confident, fresh, and naturally glowing.

Ready to book your appointment or have more questions? Contact us or book online today.