The Glow Edit
Spray Tanning 101··Updated ·4 min read

First Time Spray Tan: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Never done a spray tan before? Don’t worry. Here’s everything you need to know before your first automated spray tan appointment in Toronto. Plus, at TANNED TO, your first session is staff-assisted, then you’ll be set to glow solo.

First Time Spray Tan: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Nervous about your first spray tan in Toronto? You’re not alone. Walking into something new is always a little intimidating, but here’s the thing: your first automated spray tan at TANNED TO is about as easy as it gets — fully private, contactless, and done in under 6 minutes. Here’s exactly what to expect before, during, and after your appointment.

Before You Arrive

Good prep is 80% of a flawless spray tan. Exfoliate the night before your session. Shave or wax at least 24 hours ahead of time. Skip lotions, deodorants, perfumes, and makeup on the day of your tan. Show up with clean, bare skin. If you must shower day of, make sure it’s at least 4 hours prior to your appointment. For the full routine, read our prep and aftercare guide.

What to Wear

Wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment. Tight clothes can rub off the colour before it sets. Light colours might pick up bronzer transfer. Dark and loose is the way to go. Bring open-toed shoes — flip flops work best. Men must wear underwear during the spray tan session.

Enter the Studio

Our Toronto studio is a self-serve, contactless experience — no artist, no staff in the room during your spray. Enter the private studio using your temporary access code; it was emailed to you after you booked your time slot, and it’s also under "my bookings" in the web app. Your PIN works from 10 minutes before your booking until 10 minutes after. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, your code will no longer work.

Once you’re inside, grab the supplies you need from the supply station. We offer g-strings, hairnets, blenders, nose plugs, hair ties, nipple covers, and stickers — take what you want and leave what you don’t.

Prep yourself by following the steps on the poster inside the tan room carefully. It walks you through everything you need to do before stepping into the booth.

Inside the Booth

Step inside and the booth will guide you through everything. This is automated sunless tanning at its most efficient — a fine DHA mist is applied evenly as voice prompts tell you exactly when to turn and where to stand. This is a fully private room, so you can get undressed at your own pace. Follow the stances, let the mist do its thing, and you’re done in under 6 minutes. See exactly how the booth works if you want a step-by-step walkthrough first.

After You’re Done

Wait 6 to 8 hours for Malibu Bronzer or Regular Clear solution, or 1 to 3 hours for Rapid Clear. Avoid rain, washing your hands, and sweating before rinse off. When you do shower, use lukewarm water and let it do the work. No products or shampoo during your first rinse. You’ll see some colour come off — that’s normal if you chose Malibu Bronzer. After 24 hours, you’ll see your fully developed results and you can use your tan safe products. Moisturize after every shower to keep your tan looking fresh.

Common Questions from First-Timers

How long does a first spray tan appointment take?

About 20 minutes door to door. The actual spray tan takes just 4 minutes, skincare treatment takes about 2 minutes; the rest is prep, and getting dressed.

Does a spray tan hurt?

No. It’s a cool, fine mist with zero physical contact. Most people find it more comfortable than a shower.

How much does a spray tan cost in Toronto?

Most Toronto studios charge $75–$120+ for a hand-applied session. At TANNED TO a single automated spray tan is $60 and includes a complimentary full-body skincare treatment. Memberships bring it down to as low as $42.50 per tan.

Will I look orange?

No. Modern DHA formulas are designed to deliver a natural bronze, and you choose the depth level that suits your skin tone.

Can I shower right after?

No — wait at least 6–8 hours for Malibu or Regular Clear, or 1–3 hours for Rapid Clear.

Your first spray tan in Toronto is the start of something great. Book your session and welcome to the glow.

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