Professional Hair Removal Before Spray Tan: The Secret to a Smooth, Long-Lasting Glow

Getting that perfect, sun-kissed glow takes some planning – especially if you want smooth, radiant skin that lasts. Picture this: You’ve just treated yourself to a fresh spray tan, feeling confident and ready to show off your glow. But then, you realize – your bikini line or legs are due for their routine wax or sugar. Scrambling, you book a last-minute professional hair removal appointment with your waxer (if not me in the Richmond, Virginia area 😉), only to discover that while your skin is now silky smooth, your tan is streaky, patchy, and uneven. Annoying, right? This is exactly why understanding the right timing for waxing and spray tanning is essential to keeping your glow intact.

As a professional waxer, I often get asked: Should I wax before or after my spray tan? How long should I wait between waxing and tanning? These are important questions, and getting the timing right can make all the difference in how long your tan lasts and how even it looks.

Let’s break down the best practices for waxing and tanning so you can keep your glow looking flawless (and hairless) for as long as possible.

Wax First, Then Spray Tan

If you’re planning to get both waxed and spray tanned, waxing should always come first – and not just because I’m a waxer! I want you to walk into every event, vacation, or milestone moment looking and feeling your absolute best. The last thing you want is a splotchy, uneven tan right before a big occasion.

Timing matters, and here’s why:

• Waxing removes hair from the root, but it also exfoliates the top layer of your skin.
• If you tan before waxing, the wax will strip away that freshly applied tan, leaving patchy results.
• Waxing actually leaves your skin ultra-smooth, creating the perfect canvas for an even, long-lasting tan.

Timing is Everything: When to Wax and Tan

The Bare Minimum: 24 Hours Apart

If you’re in a time crunch, the absolute bare minimum time you should wait between waxing and tanning is 24 hours. This allows your skin to calm down after waxing, reducing the risk of irritation, redness, and an uneven tan. However, if you can plan ahead, waiting longer is even better.

The Ideal Timing: 48 Hours Apart

For best results, I recommend waiting 48 hours after waxing before getting a spray tan. This gives your skin time to recover, reduces sensitivity, and ensures your pores have closed up completely. Open pores can cause the tanning solution to settle unevenly, creating dark spots or a speckled effect.

How to Prepare for Your Wax and Tan

Before Your Wax:

✅Allow hair to grow for 3-4 weeks to reach ¼ inch length 
✅Cleanse right before appointment (front to back)
✅Moisturize daily, stop exfoliating 3-5 days before
✅You may take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, as approved by your physician, before your appointment.
✅Avoid caffeine, such as coffee or soda, as that can contribute to discomfort.

After Your Wax:

❌ Avoid excessive sweating, hot showers, and tight clothing for 24 hours.
❌ Don’t exfoliate or use harsh skincare products on waxed areas.
✅ Moisturize with Se-Brazil Ouch Balm (Solid or Oil) daily to keep skin hydrated.

Before Your Spray Tan:

✅ Shower and exfoliate 24 hours before your tan: This creates an even surface for the tan to adhere to.
✅ Skip the lotion, deodorant, and makeup: These can create a barrier, leading to an uneven tan.
✅ Wear dark, loose clothing: Tight clothes can smudge your fresh tan.
✅ Use a barrier cream on dry areas (knees, elbows, ankles, and wrists): This prevents the tan from over development in those spots.

How to Maintain Your Wax and Tan for Longer-Lasting Results

Once you’ve timed your wax and spray tan perfectly, here’s how to make them last:

Wax Maintenance Tips:

• Schedule regular waxing appointments every 4-6 weeks to maintain smooth skin. I always recommend our maintenance program for clients. Learn more here!
• Avoid shaving between waxes: Shaving disrupts the waxing cycle, leaving you with uneven growth that can make your next sugaring or waxing session less effective.
• Keep your skin clean and hydrated with your daily homecare

Spray Tan Longevity Tips:

• Wait 8-12 hours before showering after your spray tan.
• Use sulfate-free, gentle body wash to prevent premature fading.
• Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing after showers.
• Keep your skin hydrated with a tan-safe moisturizer (avoid anything with alcohol or fragrance that can strip the tan).
• Avoid exfoliating too soon – Wait at least 4-5 days before gentle exfoliation to prevent patchy fading.
• Stay out of pools, hot tubs, and saltwater as much as possible, as these can fade your tan quickly.

The Bottom Line with Professional Hair Removal & Spray Tanning

To achieve the smoothest skin and longest-lasting glow, wax first, then tan – with at least 24 hours in between (but 48 hours is even better). Proper prep and aftercare for both your wax and spray tan will keep your skin looking flawless and your tan lasting longer. Plan ahead, follow these tips, and enjoy your smooth, bronzed glow with confidence!

Brazilian Sugaring in Richmond, Virginia

Got questions? Feel free to text me at (804) 625-8044. Ready to book? Click here to schedule your appointment. I can’t wait to see you!