How far in advance should I get a spray tan before an event?
For most events, have your spray tan one to two days before. That gives the colour time to develop fully, lets you have your first rinse, and means it looks its best on the day. For a wedding, add a trial two to four weeks earlier.
Get the timing wrong and even a perfect tan can let you down. Too early and it is fading by the big day. Too late and you are still developing, or you have not had your first shower when the dress goes on. After 16 years of tanning for every occasion going, this is the timing we give our own clients.
The quick timing guide
| Event | Have your tan | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding (bride) | 24 to 48 hours before, trial 2 to 4 weeks before | Fully developed, rinsed, and no surprises |
| Wedding guest or bridesmaid | 1 to 2 days before | Peak colour on the day |
| Ayr Races and Ladies Day | 1 to 2 days before | Set before you get dressed up |
| Holiday | 1 to 2 days before you fly | Rinsed before packing, lasts into the trip |
| Night out or party | The day before | Fresh colour, no developing on the night |
| Photos or headshots | 1 to 2 days before | Even, settled colour on camera |
Why not the same day?
Most tans need several hours before the first rinse, and the colour keeps deepening for up to a day. A same-day tan means getting dressed over a developing tan, which risks marks on your clothes and a colour that is not finished yet. Our shower timing guide explains each product.
Why not a week before?
A spray tan lasts around five to ten days depending on the product and your skin, and it is at its best in the first few days. Leave it too long and you are fading on the day that matters. Our how long does it last guide has the detail.
Plan backwards from your event
- Two weeks before: book your slot. Race weeks, December and wedding season fill first.
- Two days before: exfoliate.
- The day before your tan: shave or wax.
- Tan day: no moisturiser, deodorant or make-up. Loose dark clothes ready.
- Next morning: first rinse as we tell you, then moisturise daily.
The mistake we see most
Booking the night before a wedding or a holiday flight and hoping for the best. It can work, but it leaves no room for anything going wrong. One to two days gives you breathing space, and a calm bride is a better-looking bride.
More planning help: bridal tans, holiday tans and Ayr Races 2027 dates.
Your questions, answered
How many days before an event should I get a spray tan?
One to two days before for most events. That gives the colour time to develop and lets you rinse before the day.
Can I get a spray tan the day of an event?
It is not ideal. Most tans need several hours before the first rinse and keep deepening for up to a day, so you risk marking your outfit.
When should a bride get her spray tan?
24 to 48 hours before the ceremony, with a trial two to four weeks before the wedding.
Is a week before too early?
Usually, yes. A spray tan is at its best in the first few days and lasts around five to ten days, so a week before means you may be fading on the day.
How far ahead should I book my appointment?
At least a week or two ahead, and earlier for race weeks, December and summer weekends.
Ready when you are
Tell us the date, we’ll do the maths
Message us your event and date and we will book you in at exactly the right time.
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