There’s nothing like a flawless spray tan to give you that sun-kissed, radiant glow—especially when it comes to walking down the aisle and looking luminous in every photo on your wedding day. But while a good tan can enhance your bridal beauty, a bad one can lead to streaks, smudges, or an off-tone finish you definitely don’t want immortalized in your wedding album. The secret? Smart planning, the right shade, and a few key dos and don’ts. In this ultimate guide, we’re breaking it all down—from expert prep and timing to post-tan care—so you can glow into your big day with confidence.
Time Your Pre-Wedding
Tan Perfectly
Timing is everything, especially the week leading up to your wedding day! With spray tan, think about two to three days before your big day, which gives the color enough time to settle and soften into a perfect lived-in glow. Also, make sure you book it separately from other treatments such as waxing, facials or nails appointments – ideally, spray tanning should be the last treatment in your bridal beauty schedule.
Anastasia Mihaylova, Natalie Karpushenko
Test Your Spray Tan
Before the Big Day
When it comes to bridal beauty, it's important to trial as much as you can, until you feel satsified with your look. Your wedding glow should never be left to chance either. A bridal spray tan trial is just as important as a makeup rehearsal: it helps you find the right shade, see how your skin reacts to it, and check what you look like in different lighting conditions. You could even plan a trial photoshoot with your chosen shade. It’s the best way to ensure your glow complements your dress, makeup, and overall look—so you can walk into your big day feeling confident and camera-ready.
Beautiful Result Starts
with Pre-Tan Prep
The perfect tan starts long before the spray tan is applied. To achieve the most even, long-lasting results, exfoliation is essential – use a gentle scrub 24–48 hours before the appointment to remove dead skin cells. Also make sure you shave or wax at least a day before your appointment to avoid irritation. On the day of your appointment, arrive with bare, product-free skin – no lotions, perfumes or deodorant.
What to Wear to Your Spray
Tan Appointment
When dressing for your spray tan, comfort and clothes color are key. Opt for loose, dark clothing such as a flowing dress, an oversized T-shirt or a robe-style outfit that won't rub against your skin. Leave bras and leggings behind to avoid any unwanted tan lines. When it comes to footwear, also choose anything that won't leave marks on your feet. The more relaxed, the better!
The Secret to Locking
In Your Glow
The work doesn’t end as soon as the appointment is over. Once your tan has been applied, you should avoid getting your skin wet, sweating, or having any skin-to-skin contact for at least eight hours. Your first shower afterwards should be a quick, lukewarm rinse without soap. Avoid heavy body washes and apply a gentle moisturiser daily to maintain your glow. Try not to rub your skin and avoid exfoliating until after your big day.
Caring for Your Spray Tan
on Your Big Day
On the morning of your wedding, avoid applying oil-based moisturisers to areas where your dress will fit tightly, to prevent the product transferring onto your dress. If you're worried about sweating or crying, make sure you have blotting paper and a small face powder in your bridal makeup bag. Don’t forget to ask your makeup artist to match your tan shade for a seamless, balanced finish.
