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Frequently Asked Questions
At Afterglow, we specialize in natural-looking, customized spray tans designed to enhance your skin tone — never mask it. Our signature formula is clean, lightweight, and carefully chosen to work beautifully across a wide range of skin tones without looking orange, heavy, or streaky.
We use a minimalist formula free from:
fragrance
dyes
alcohol
unnecessary additives
The result is a healthy, believable glow that fades evenly and feels as good as it looks.
Most tans last approximately 7–10 days with proper preparation and aftercare.
Longevity depends on:
skin type
skincare products
workouts/sweating
swimming
exfoliation habits
Hydrated skin typically holds a tan longer and fades more evenly.
For best results:
24 hours before:
shave or wax
exfoliate thoroughly
avoid heavy lotions or oils afterward (light lotion is ok)
Day of appointment:
arrive with completely clean skin
no heavy lotion/oil. Lightly moisturized is ok for dry skin
wear loose dark clothing and sandals if possible
No. Our approach is designed specifically to avoid the overly dark, orange, or unnatural look commonly associated with spray tans.
Every tan is customized based on:
skin tone
undertones
desired depth of color
event timing
Our goal is healthy, believable skin — just elevated.
Rinse in approximately 2–8 hours depending on desired depth
You will receive personalized rinse instructions during your appointment.
Until your first rinse:
avoid sweating
avoid water exposure
avoid tight clothing
avoid friction
After rinsing:
moisturize 2x daily
avoid harsh exfoliants
pat skin dry after showers instead of rubbing
We recommend waiting until after your first rinse before exercising or sweating heavily.
Sweat can interfere with development and may cause uneven results before the tan fully sets.
Loose, comfortable clothing is best.
Popular choices include:
oversized button-downs
loose sweats
flowy dresses
sandals
Avoid tight leggings, sports bras, socks, or anything that may rub against freshly sprayed skin.
The formula bronzer may transfer slightly before your first rinse, but it is temporary and typically washes out of most fabrics.
We recommend:
dark loose clothing after appointment
darker sheets the first night if possible, or rinse before bed
After your first rinse, transfer is very uncommon.
Our formula is chosen with a strong focus on cleaner ingredients and skin-conscious application. It is FDA approved for topical application.
Unlike UV tanning, spray tanning does not expose the skin to damaging ultraviolet radiation.
Many clients with sensitive skin tolerate our formula very well due to its simplified ingredient profile and lack of fragrance, dyes, and alcohol.
If you have significant sensitivities or allergies, we are always happy to review ingredients beforehand.
We always recommend starting more natural than you think.
A well-done spray tan should make people think:
“You look healthy and glowing,”
not:
“You got sprayed.”
We will guide you toward the shade that best complements your skin tone, lifestyle, and event goals.
Yes — bridal tans are one of our specialties.
We strongly recommend:
a trial tan before the wedding
scheduling the wedding tan approximately 2-3 days before the event
Bridal packages are available for brides and bridal parties.
Most clients maintain their glow every:
7–14 days depending on preference
Membership options are available for clients wanting year-round maintenance.
Absolutely. Many male clients use spray tanning for:
vacations
weddings
fitness competitions
photoshoots
overall healthy color year-round
Our approach remains natural and customized for every client.
805.576.7035
111 Santa Barbara Street, Suite C1
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
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