You’ve booked your spray tan and you’re dreaming of that golden glow — but now you’re wondering if you should shave beforehand.
Shaving at the wrong time can leave you with dark pore dots, streaks, or patchy colour that clings to freshly opened follicles.
The good news? With the right timing and prep, shaving before your spray tan actually helps your colour look smoother, last longer, and develop more evenly.
Should You Shave Before A Spray Tan?
Yes, you should shave before a spray tan — ideally 12–24 hours beforehand.
Shaving too close to your appointment can leave pores open, causing dots, streaking, and uneven colour.
Exfoliate first, shave with a gentle product, rinse well, skip moisturiser, and keep skin product-free before your tan for the smoothest result.
When Should You Shave Before a Spray Tan?
Shave 12–24 hours before your spray tan. This gives pores time to close, prevents those dark “strawberry skin” dots, and helps the colour apply smoothly.
Need to shave the same day?
Only if you have to — go gently, use a clean razor, avoid oils, and finish with a cool rinse to help close pores.
Men shaving?
Same rule applies — especially for the face and chest. Shave the day before to avoid irritation and patchy colour.
How to Prep Your Skin When Shaving Before a Spray Tan
Exfoliate first to sweep away dead skin and avoid patchy development — just skip harsh scrubs on the day so skin stays calm.
Shave with a fresh razor and a gentle, non-oily cream. Oils can block the tan, so rinse thoroughly to leave the skin clean.
Finish with a cool rinse and pat dry to help close pores and minimise visible “dots.”
Skip moisturiser and oils afterward. Keep skin product-free so your tan can grab evenly and develop beautifully.
Why Shaving Matters Before a Spray Tan
Shaving lifts away hair and dead skin, giving your spray tan a smoother surface to cling to. It helps the colour apply more evenly and last longer — but because shaving opens your pores, timing it right is key to avoiding dots and patchiness.
What If You Forgot to Shave Before Your Spray Tan?
If shaving slipped your mind, go for a quick trim or gentle dermaplaning instead.
Absolutely need to shave right before?
Use a clean razor, avoid oils, and finish with a cool rinse to help close pores — a light, alcohol-free toner or mist is okay, but skip heavy products.
For the best results, always aim to shave the day before your appointment.
Ready for your best bronze yet?
Follow these steps and you’ll glow stronger.
For a full checklist of what to do (and what to avoid) before your appointment, read our spray tan preparation guide.
