How to Prepare for an Airbrush Tan in Dallas

An airbrush tan is one of the quickest ways to look polished, confident, and photo-ready for any occasion. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, a gala in Uptown, or simply want to keep a healthy glow through the cooler months, preparation is the key to making your tan look flawless and last longer.

At Pure Glow Dallas in Mockingbird Station, our hand-applied tans are tailored to your skin tone and applied with precision by trained specialists. To get the best possible results, here’s everything you should know before your appointment.

Exfoliate the day before

The night before your session, take time to exfoliate head to toe. Use a mitt, loofa, or gentle scrub to remove dry patches and create a smooth base for the formula. Exfoliation helps prevent streaks and ensures your tan develops evenly.

Pro tip: avoid oil-based scrubs, which can leave a film on the skin and block the solution from absorbing properly.

Skip lotion and deodorant on tanning day

On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean, dry skin. This means no lotion, oils, deodorant, perfume, or makeup. Each of these can interfere with the way the solution applies and develops.

If you need to freshen up before your appointment, rinse with water but skip the products.

Plan your hair removal

If you wax, do so at least 24 hours before your session. Shaving and threading can be done afterward, but keep it gentle to avoid fading your tan too quickly.

Choose what to wear during your tan

During your appointment, you can wear as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. Most women choose underwear or a swimsuit. Men are required to wear shorts or swim trunks. Disposable thongs are available if you prefer minimal tan lines.

Remember that anything you wear during the application may get product on it, but it will wash out in a normal laundry cycle.

Dress smart for afterward

Once your tan is applied, you’ll want to slip into loose, dark clothing — think cotton joggers, an oversized tee, or a maxi dress with sandals. Avoid dry-clean-only fabrics until after your first rinse. Tight waistbands or straps can rub against the developing tan and leave marks.

Stay dry for 5–7 hours

Your tan will need time to set. Avoid showering, working out, or sweating until your rinse window. Pure Glow Dallas includes an express rinse option with every service, so you can shower as early as five hours for a lighter look, or wait up to seven for full development.

Once you rinse, your tan will stop developing, giving you flexibility to plan around your schedule.

Aftercare for lasting results

To extend your glow, moisturize head to toe twice daily with an oil-free, alcohol-free lotion. Pat your skin dry after showers instead of rubbing. Avoid long soaks in hot tubs, pools, or baths for about a week. With proper care, your Pure Glow tan will last 8–10 days.

If you’re planning multiple events — like homecoming, formals, and weddings — our specialists can recommend a schedule that keeps your color even through the season.

Can I wear makeup after my appointment?

Stick to mineral powders if you’d like light coverage before your rinse. Avoid liquid foundation or creams until your tan is fully developed, since they can streak the application. After rinsing, makeup applies beautifully over a Pure Glow tan.

Special notes for Dallas clients

First-timers: If you’ve never had an airbrush tan, consider booking a partial tan or face-only session first. It’s a great way to get comfortable with the process.
Groups: We regularly see homecoming groups, sorority sisters, and bridal parties. Text us to arrange back-to-back sessions so you can all get ready together.
Pregnancy: Many pregnant clients tan with us, but always check with your doctor first. We keep a full ingredient list on hand for reference.

Why choose Pure Glow Dallas

Unlike booth tanning, where a machine sprays a single formula across your body, our artists hand-apply every tan with precision. That means no streaks, no awkward lines, and color matched to your exact undertone. Add in organic ingredients, a clean and welcoming studio, and the confidence of walking out photo-ready — and it’s easy to see why Dallas clients keep coming back.

Book Your Dallas Airbrush Tan

Pure Glow Dallas
5319 E. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75206
Located in Mockingbird Station between Stretch Lab and Castle Nail Spa