Sugar Sugar™ Blog

Hi, I’m Aimee Blake, founder of Sugar Sugar.  I’ve learned A LOT from years in the beauty industry.  Amongst many things, I've learned that perfect spray tans don’t happen by accident. It took years of trial and error, testing products, tweaking techniques, and—most importantly—listening to my clients to create what I believe is the ultimate spray tan experience. I didn’t just want to offer any spray tan; I wanted it to be flawless. That meant developing a perfect, proprietary solution.  But also a process that not only delivers beautiful results but is also kind to the skin.

Let me walk you through what I’ve come to know about getting the perfect spray tan—because it’s not just about the application; it’s about proper preparation and making the right choices at every step.

Exfoliate: A Smooth Start

Before you even think about getting that golden glow, you’ve got to start with a clean slate. The key is to exfoliate thoroughly, removing dead skin cells that can cause uneven absorption. I always tell clients to use a gentle scrub to create a smooth base. Trust me, a great tan begins with great prep—it’s the foundation for preventing streaks and ensuring an even glow.

Shower: Clean Skin, Clean Results

Another essential step is a good shower before your appointment. You need to wash away any dirt, oil, or sweat so that your skin is ready to fully absorb the tanning solution. A fresh, clean canvas is crucial for ensuring the spray tan adheres smoothly to your skin. Skip the soap or oils that could leave a residue—just clean, fresh skin!

Moisturize (But Not Right Before)

Moisturizing is key to keeping your skin soft and hydrated, but timing is everything. I recommend using an oil-free moisturizer the day before your appointment to keep your skin balanced, but avoid it on the day of your tan. Moisturizer right before your tan can create a barrier, leading to uneven results.

Shave or Wax: Timing Matters

Shaving or waxing at the wrong time can affect how your tan turns out. Always remove unwanted hair at least 24 hours before your appointment. This gives your skin time to settle and avoids those irritating little bumps that can mess with the finish of your tan.

Choose the Right Color for You

Here’s something I’m passionate about: your tan should enhance your natural beauty, not overwhelm it. That’s why I always emphasize choosing a base color that complements your natural skin tone. The goal is to look sun-kissed, not orange or overdone. Whether you’re fair, medium, or deep-toned, picking the right shade is crucial for getting that perfect, believable tan.

Choose the Right Product for Your Skin Type

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, the last thing you want is a product that clogs your pores or causes breakouts. Look for a tanning solution that contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E—these help nourish your skin while giving you that radiant glow. I’ve carefully selected products that not only deliver a stunning tan but also take care of your skin.

Wear Loose, Dark Clothing

After your tan, the last thing you want is anything rubbing against your fresh glow. I always recommend loose clothing and avoiding a bra right after your appointment to prevent unwanted tan lines. Go for darker colors since bronzer can transfer to your clothes before your first shower.

Nail Polish: A Simple Trick for Protection

One of the easiest tips I give my clients is to wear a clear coat of nail polish before your appointment. This simple step can protect your nails from any discoloration, especially if you’re getting a darker shade of tan.

Skip the Makeup, Deodorant, and Perfume

These might seem like small details, but they can make a big difference in how your tan turns out. Makeup, deodorant, and perfume can all create barriers that prevent the tanning solution from absorbing properly. It’s best to come to your appointment fresh-faced and fragrance-free.

Plan Ahead: Timing Is Everything

Finally, always plan ahead. If you’re getting ready for a big event, I recommend getting your spray tan at least two days before. This gives the color time to develop naturally and ensures your tan looks even more flawless when it matters most.

What started as a quest for a flawless tan became a passion to create an experience where every client walks out feeling more confident. Through patience, a lot of testing, and listening to what people really want, I’m proud of the system we’ve built at Sugar Sugar. The perfect spray tan is not just about looking good—it’s about making you feel good, inside and out.

Book your next spray tan with is in {location} and experience it for yourself. You’ll see that it’s the attention to detail and the care we take in each step that makes all the difference.