The short answer: wear dark, loose-fitting clothes and open shoes like slides or flip-flops. Tight straps, waistbands, and closed shoes can rub the solution off before it sets.

If this is your first spray tan, it’s normal to wonder what to wear and what to bring. This guide covers what to wear to your appointment, what to wear during the tan, and what to wear afterward so you leave with an even, natural glow.

Book a spray tan at Allvera Wellness Spa in Columbus, or keep reading to get ready.

Quick outfit checklist

• Dark, loose top and bottoms: a flowy dress, wide-leg pants, or an oversized tee

• Open shoes: slides, flip-flops, or sandals

• A strapless or loose bra if you need one, or none at all

• Dark sleepwear for the first night

• A small bag with a change of underwear and anything you’ll need to wear out afterward

What to wear to a spray tan appointment

Choose an outfit you can slip on easily and that won’t press against your skin. Loose clothing keeps the solution from being wiped away, and dark colors hide any transfer.

Good choices:

• A maxi dress or loose sundress

• Wide-leg or drawstring pants

• An oversized t-shirt or button-up

• A dark zip-up or cardigan, if you need a layer

•Wipe off deodorant and makeup before your appointment as it can disrupt the solution from processing proerly

What to wear during a spray tan

You’ll change before your tan, and your technician will guide you through the whole process. Wear only what you’re comfortable with. If you want fewer lines, bring or choose items your technician recommends. Most spas offer a robe or a way to stay covered between steps, and a loose robe is a good choice while the solution sets, since it won’t rub against your skin.

What to wear after a spray tan

This is where outfit choice matters most. Your tan is still developing, and tight or light-colored clothes can mark it or pick up color.

• Stick with dark, loose pieces such as a flowy dress, loose joggers, or an oversized top.

• Skip tight bras and fitted waistbands, which can leave lines.

• Avoid your best light-colored clothes, since some solution can transfer.

• Wait to shower or sweat until your technician says it’s safe. 

If you’re heading to an event right after, pick a dark, breezy outfit you won’t need to adjust.

What shoes to wear to a spray tan

Choose slides, flip-flops, or open sandals. They keep your feet from rubbing against the inside of a shoe and let your toes dry evenly.

Skip sneakers, boots, and closed-toe shoes. They trap heat and moisture and can smudge the solution on your feet. The same goes for socks until your technician says it’s okay.

What to wear to bed after a spray tan

Wear loose, dark pajamas and use dark or old sheets for the first night. Your tan may still transfer slightly, so you won’t want to risk your favorite light colored bedding.

What not to wear

• Tight jeans, leggings, or shapewear

• Bras with tight bands or thin, tight straps

• Light or white clothing

• Sneakers, boots, or closed-toe shoes

• Jewelry and watches that rub or leave marks

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to be naked for a spray tan? 

No. You choose what you’re comfortable with, and your technician will explain your options.

Can I wear a bra during a spray tan? 

A strapless or loose bra is best if you want one. Tight bands and thin straps can leave lines.

What should I wear home after my spray tan? 

Dark, loose clothes and open shoes. Bring a change of clothes so you aren’t wearing tight items.

Can I wear makeup or jewelry?

We recommend removing makeup, deodorant and jewelry before your tanning appointment as it can disrupt the solution from processes and leave behind tan lines 

How long should I wait before showering?

It depends on the solution you choose. We offer a regular spray tan with a processing time of 8-12 hours and a rapid spray tan with a processing time of 4-5 hours. 

Will the spray tan stain my clothes?

Some transfer can happen, especially in the first hours, which is why dark, loose clothing is best.

Ready to book your spray tan?

Now you know what to wear, the rest is easy. Book your spray tan at Allvera Wellness Spa at 2079 W. 5th Ave in Columbus, or call (614) 968-9304 with questions.

Giving a gift? A spray tan makes a fun present. Send an Allvera gift certificate or see our spa gift ideas for Columbus.