Spray tans are a quick way to get that sun-kissed look without the hours in the sun. Whether you’re heading to an event or just want a little glow to carry into the cooler months, spray tans can boost confidence and save time. But as great as they are when done right, things can sometimes go a little sideways. Tan lines, streaks, patches—it happens. Especially if you’re in a hurry or not familiar with the aftercare.
You’ve probably had or heard of that moment when someone steps out of their first spray tan appointment, and everything seems fine until they look in the mirror a few hours later. The color might be uneven, hands look a little orange, or there are strange dark areas that weren’t there before. Panic sets in. What now? The good news is most spray tan emergencies have simple fixes. Here’s how to smooth things out before you go scrubbing it all off.
Quick Fix For Streaky Tan Lines
Streaks are one of the most common spray tan issues, and they’re often caused by uneven application or poor skin prep. Sometimes the solution is as simple as missed moisture. Dry skin tends to suck in more product, leaving certain areas darker while others stay light. Another reason could be sweating too soon after the session, which can cause the solution to move before it sets.
If you catch streaks early, you can usually blend them out without much fuss. Try these quick steps:
1. Use a mildly damp washcloth to gently rub the streaked area in small circles.
2. Apply a lightweight lotion to the area afterward to help smooth the blend.
3. If that doesn’t cut it, mix a small amount of baking soda with water and lightly exfoliate the spot. Rinse and moisturize once you’re done.
Keep it calm and don’t overdo it. Harsh scrubbing can make things worse by removing too much color and irritating your skin. Always follow up with moisturizer to avoid patchiness later.
Want to help prevent streaks before they start? Prepping your skin properly the night before your appointment makes a big difference. Stay hydrated, skip oil-based lotions before the tan, and avoid tight clothes that could rub the product during the setting period.
Addressing Overly Dark Spots
Dark spots after a spray tan usually show up around areas with rougher texture like elbows, knees, ankles, or hands. These spots absorb more of the tanning solution and hold onto it longer, which can leave your skin looking uneven and patchy. If the color is way too strong in a small area, there are a few tricks to help tone it down without messing up the rest of your tan.
Here’s what you can try:
– Spot fix with a makeup remover wipe. Gently pat the dark areas. This won’t remove the tan completely, but it can soften the look.
– Rub a raw potato slice over the area. The enzyme in potatoes helps break down some of the product.
– Apply lemon juice with a cotton pad and leave it on for just a couple of minutes. Rinse off and pat dry.
Be careful with anything too abrasive. It’s easy to go overboard and lift color from areas you didn’t mean to touch. If the spots don’t fade with these gentler options, call your tanning pro for help adjusting the color professionally.
To avoid dark spots in future sessions, focus on areas that tend to get dry. Moisturize them every day, especially leading up to your next spray tan. And on the day of your appointment, a light barrier cream on those rough zones can help control absorption and give you a smoother finish.
Fixing Uneven Tan Patches
Uneven tanning happens to even the most seasoned spray tan regulars. It usually shows up when parts of the body absorb the product differently. This can be from dry skin, missed prep, or rubbing contact during the development period. You may notice this most on the inner arms, thighs, or stomach, where creases or clothing might cause disruption.
If you’re dealing with uneven color, don’t rush to wipe everything off. You can smooth it out with a little patience and a steady hand. Here’s a quick fix process:
1. Dampen a soft cloth and wring out excess water. You don’t want it dripping, just lightly moist.
2. Press it gently against the darker areas and rub in light circular motions.
3. Once the color has softened, apply a high-moisture lotion to even out the fade.
4. Repeat this over the next day or two as the tan breaks down naturally.
Another trick that helps is sweeping a gradual self-tanner over lighter areas to help them catch up. Just use a mitt and apply lightly. Blend it out and allow time to dry fully before dressing again.
To prevent patchy results next time, go back to the basics. Exfoliate before your appointment, skip heavy oils or lotions day-of, and let loose clothing be your go-to for at least six to eight hours afterward. A little prep really does go a long way for keeping skin tone even from top to bottom.
Handling Orange Hands Or Feet
If there’s one spot that gives your spray tan away, it’s usually the hands or feet. These areas tend to soak up more product for several reasons. Thicker skin, more creases, and sometimes over-application. What you’re left with is a slight orange hue that stands out against the rest of your tan.
To fix this, your best bet is to take some gentle steps to reduce the color:
– Soak a cotton ball in lemon juice and dab the area. Let it sit a minute before rinsing with warm water.
– Use a soft-bristled toothbrush dipped in a paste of baking soda and water to lightly scrub the discoloration.
– Follow up by patting dry and moisturizing immediately.
You don’t want to be harsh here. It’s tempting to scrub away the mistake, but that can leave your skin red and drier, which causes new problems later on.
A simple way to reduce issues in advance is to apply a barrier cream on the hands and feet just before the session. If that felt like too much prep at the time, you’re not alone. Spraying can feel like a fast process, and it’s easy to miss the details under stress or time crunch. But giving these areas some extra care and attention, even just during the rinse, can help balance out your overall look and keep your glow smooth, not splotchy.
No Stress, Just a Great Glow
Spray tan emergencies can feel like a big deal in the moment, especially when you’re prepping for something important. But once you know what to watch for and how to smooth over small mistakes, it’s a lot easier to stay calm and fix things quickly. Whether it’s a streak, a dark spot, or a patch that just doesn’t match the rest, most problems have a simple solution.
The key is treating your skin gently and being patient. Avoid rushing into over-correction, and give your tan room to settle before making major changes. Quick fixes work best when applied with care and minimal fuss. With the right approach, you can still walk out with a look that’s polished, even, and ready for whatever you have on the calendar.
Discover how perfecting your tan doesn’t have to be challenging. For more expert spray tan tips and guidance, the team at Sugar Sugar St Johns is ready to help ensure your tan looks even and natural every time. Explore how we can assist you in achieving that flawless finish and maintaining your glow effortlessly.