As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Can I Spray Tan after Waxing?


One of the greatest fears in the life of a salon owner is the clients who are fond of waxing.

You might ask me, why?

You might not know whether the customers have come just after waxing or they have a waxing session planned next day after the tanning appointment.

No doubt waxing is one of the best exfoliating methods. And I think I don’t have to stress out the importance of exfoliating in tanning to you.

But, waxing coupled with tanning can cruelly hamper your skin, if not planned properly.

When it comes to beauty, I always believe that waiting game can do wonders. The same logic applies here too. You need to give some time gap between waxing and spray tanning.

On the other hand, waxing is a fantastic exfoliator and you will see amazing results if done correctly.

Confused?

I have detailed everything in this article. If you are a person who is fond of waxing and tanning, this is the article you were looking for. This is going to be an eyeopener and I’m sure you will thank me for the details later.

Read on!

Spray Tanning and Waxing

Among all forms of tanning, spray tanning is the one which is directly related to waxing.

Waxing helps to eradicate your hairs completely. There is no better exfoliating method than waxing.

If you are confused whether to wax before or after applying the tanning spray, I can give you a clear idea about both the processes and you may opt for the one which makes better sense to you.

When can I Wax before Spray Tanning?

Exfoliating your skin before tanning session is the key to a long lasting tan. Although spray tanning cannot offer permanent tanning, its effect can be prolonged in this manner.

In fact, waxing before tanning is icing on the cake. Waxing removes hairs from the root and hence it stands above shaving when it comes to exfoliating.

A more apparent and remarkable tan is possible by getting the waxing done before tanning. The removal of all the unwanted hairs and dead cells makes the skin very clean and flawless.

The DHA chemicals will be applied on fresh skin cells which won’t be flaked off any time soon. As a result, tanning can be more noticeable and effective.

This is precisely why most of the tanning salons recommend waxing before your tanning session.

When to Plan Waxing Prior to Spray Tanning?

Don’t rush for waxing your skin to get a long-lasting spray tan; especially if you have your spray tanning planned for tomorrow. There is one more thing you should know.

You should never wax your skin within 48 hours before the spray tanning session.

The skin would be extra sensitive and vulnerable immediately after waxing. An immediate application of spray tan can cause, harm, rashes or irritation on the skin.

There are two main reasons you should avoid spray tanning within 2 days of waxing :

  • Your pores will be open after waxing. It will take around 1-2 days for the pores to close. If you apply spray tanning before the pores are closed, it will cause skin reactions and irritations. Let me tell you, you will not like the feeling!
  • It takes at least two days for the wax to leave from your skin completely. Thin layers of wax will be present on your body for two days after the waxing. Carrying out spray tanning before this will leave white spots on your body. Yeah, it won’t look any good!

What’s the bottom line here?

  • If you are in a dire need to get the sun-kissed look, wait for at least 24 hours. I would always recommend 48 hours is the best time gap you can give for spray tanning after waxing your skin

Spray Tan after Waxing

Getting a waxing done immediately after spray tanning doesn’t sound to be a wise idea.

The skin wears a dull look when you wax after tanning. This is because when you exfoliate your skin after tanning, the impact and fresh look of the spray tanning are taken away.

Waxing after tanning is just like putting on the make-up and then scrubbing your skin.

The tan is likely to be short-lived in this method. As the waxing strip removes the hair, a small layer of tan is also lost in the process.

Proper development of the tan takes around 4- 7 days after a spray tan session.

We would advise you to wait for at least four days to wax your skin post spray tanning. The more you wait, better will be the development of your tanned skin.

What about Sun Tanning and Tanning Beds?

Unlike the spray tan, sun tanning and tanning beds don’t have any profound correlation with waxing. You might have already guessed the reason.

Tanning beds and outdoor tanning doesn’t have any chemical sprays as in spray tanning. You don’t have to wear DHA chemicals on your skin to get your body tanned here. Hence waxing after tanning will not have any effect on the development of tan.

However, it is always a great idea to wax before getting tan through tanning bed or sun. Don’t underplay the exfoliating action of waxing.

  • NB: For people who have sensitive skin, it is better to wait at least two days to tan after waxing. Waxing removes the top dead layers of your skin and you might feel a burning sensation if the fresh new cells are exposed to UV rays. 

How about Tanning after Waxing Eyebrows?

This is another common question most people have when it comes to waxing and spray tanning.

If you had thought about it a bit logically, you might be already knowing the answer.

Why is spray tanning just after waxing not allowed? Yeah, the pores might be yet in open state and it will lead to skin reactions.

I think you have the answer by now.

Waxing eyebrows have nothing to do with the skin. After all, it’s a tiny portion in your body. Eyebrows won’t tan and there is no harm in going to spray tan after waxing your eyebrows.

Final Thoughts

I am sure you have your answer by now.

Well, I will never approve of waxing after applying tanning spray as it cannot produce the desired result effectively.

On the other hand, waxing at least 48 hours before spray tanning is a must. It will take you one step closer to a long lasting tan.

Again, timing is the key and you should not wax within two days prior to your spray tanning session.

Keep in mind that your tanning experience cannot be complete without waxing. It’s one of the top things to do before a spray tan session.

So, if you are looking for more exciting sun-kissed look days ahead of you after tanning, do wax before you get your hands on the spray bottle.

Here is a quick look at the things to follow:

  • Wax at least 48 hours before spray tanning
  • Tanning after waxing eyebrows is okay
  • Never wax within the first 4 days after spray tanning

So, that’s all about waxing and tanning.

Wax intelligently, moisturize well and enjoy the sun-kissed look from the spray tan!

Stella Cristin

I'm Stella. I have always been drawn to beauty and health products that make a change in our life. I have been working in various tanning salons in my neighborhood to help people like me to get a beautiful and healthy tan. My passion is to help people learn about safe tanning.

Recent Posts