Your Downtown L.A. Guide to a Flawless Custom Spray Tan
Whether you’re getting ready for a special event, a photoshoot, or just want to feel your best, a great spray tan can completely boost your confidence. But if you're in Downtown L.A. — or anywhere nearby — finding the right spray tan artist can make all the difference between a natural, glowy finish and something that feels... not so natural.
After specializing in custom airbrush tanning for over a decade, I’ve picked up a few tips that can help you find the right fit — and get a tan you’ll love every time.
1. Look for True Customization
Every skin tone is different. Every client’s goals are different. A great custom tan should be tailored not only to your skin tone, but also to your event and schedule. Whether you want a soft sun-kissed glow or a deeper, bronzed finish, customization is everything when it comes to a natural result.
2. Check Portfolio Photos — Carefully
One of the best ways to tell if a spray tan artist is a good match for you? Look at real client results — and check for photos in different lighting, like natural sunlight, indoor events, and professional shoots.
A good portfolio will show tans that look consistent, even, and flattering across all types of settings.
(You can check out examples of my work here)
3. Prep and Aftercare Support Matters
A flawless tan isn’t just about the session itself — prep and aftercare make a huge difference. You should always feel guided on how to properly prepare your skin and care for your tan afterward. It’s a team effort that starts before you even walk into the studio.
4. Location and Convenience
If you’re near Downtown L.A., my studio is centrally located with easy valet parking (no apps, no meters, no stress). It’s one less thing to worry about on a busy day — just pull up, tan, and go.
If you're looking for a natural, confident glow — whether it's for a wedding, photoshoot, or just because — I'd love to help you find your perfect shade.
You can book your custom airbrush spray tan up to 30 days out here.
Summer Spray Tan Tips for L.A. Beach Days and Pool Parties
Summer in Los Angeles means beach days, rooftop parties, and plenty of time spent outdoors — and there’s no better accessory than a gorgeous, natural-looking glow. If you're thinking about getting a spray tan to kick off your summer plans, a few small tweaks in how you prep and care for your skin can make a big difference in how your tan looks (and lasts).
Here are a few tips I always share with my clients to keep their glow fresh through every pool party, beach trip, and sunny weekend:
1. Exfoliate Before Your Appointment
A good exfoliation helps your tan go on smoothly and evenly. Use a mitt or a soft scrub 24 hours before your appointment — and avoid heavy oils or super moisturizing products right before you tan. You want clean, fresh skin for the solution to bond properly. Prepping your skin the right way makes all the difference — here’s my tan prep and aftercare guide.
2. Protect Your Glow Around Water
Chlorine, saltwater, and long baths can all break down your tan faster. If you're heading to the pool or beach, rinse off after swimming and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing. A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer will help lock in your tan and keep your skin hydrated.
3. Sunscreen Is Still a Must
A spray tan doesn’t protect your skin from the sun. Always layer a good SPF (lotion versions work great) over your tan to stay protected without disrupting your color.
4. Book Your Tan at the Right Time
Planning ahead helps. Try to schedule your tan 1–2 days before your big event or beach day. This gives your color time to develop fully — and it’ll look the most natural when you're out in the sun.
If you're ready to kick off summer with an effortless glow, I'd love to help you find your perfect shade. You can book your custom airbrush spray tan here.
See you soon — poolside or beachside!
What’s the Difference Between a Custom Airbrush Tan and a Regular Spray Tan?
Not all spray tans are created equal — and if you’ve ever left a booth feeling streaky, too dark, or a little too orange, you already know that.
If you're wondering what sets a custom airbrush spray tan apart from a regular spray tan, here's a quick guide to help you glow smarter:
What Is a Regular Spray Tan (Booth Tan)?
A regular spray tan — the kind you get at a gym, chain salon, or automatic booth — is usually a one-size-fits-all formula, applied by a machine. You step into a booth, follow a voice's directions, and hope for the best.
While booth tans can be quick and inexpensive, they often come with trade-offs:
Color isn't customized to your natural skin tone
Hard-to-reach areas can get missed (hello, hands and feet)
Uneven fading and streaks are more common
No personalized prep or aftercare advice
It’s kind of like ordering a dress online without trying it on first — it might fit, but it might not.
What Is a Custom Airbrush Spray Tan?
A custom airbrush spray tan is a fully personalized experience. Instead of a machine, you work with a trained artist who adjusts every part of the tan based on your:
Skin tone and undertones
Personal preference (light, medium, dark)
Event (outdoor weddings, red carpet events, photoshoots)
Natural body shape, with subtle contouring and shading to enhance your features
During your session, the formula, depth, and application are all tailored specifically for you — and I’ll guide you through prep, aftercare, and tips to make your glow last longer.
The goal? A tan that looks like it’s your real skin — just better.
Why Customization Matters (Especially in Los Angeles)
In a city like L.A., where events, photoshoots, and camera flashes are everywhere, your glow needs to look seamless under every kind of light. A custom airbrush tan photographs beautifully, fades evenly, and feels like you — not like a filter.
Customizing your tan to your skin tone and rinse time helps it wear more naturally and flatter your real glow.
If you’re ready for a spray tan experience that's built entirely around you, I’d love to help you glow.
You can book your custom airbrush spray tan here.
Bridal Spray Tan Tips: How L.A. Brides Get That Wedding-Day Glow
If you're getting married soon, first of all — congrats!
Whether your wedding is in Beverly Hills, Downtown L.A., the coast, or anywhere in between, one thing is always true: you want to feel your absolute best. A custom spray tan can be the perfect finishing touch to your wedding look — just enough glow to make your skin look radiant, but still totally you.
Even though my studio is based in Downtown L.A., I work with brides from all over the city — Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Pasadena — who make the short trip for a custom bridal tan. If you're thinking about getting a spray tan for your wedding, here are a few tips to help you get the perfect glow:
1. Do a Trial Tan First
If you can, schedule a trial tan 2–3 weeks before your wedding. It gives us a chance to customize your shade exactly the way you want it — and you'll feel even more confident knowing exactly what to expect.
2. Plan Your Final Tan Two Days Before Your Wedding
Timing matters. I recommend getting your final spray tan about two days before your big day so your color has time to fully develop and settle into the skin for the most natural finish.
3. Proper Prep (and Aftercare) Are Key
A great spray tan starts with good prep. Make sure to exfoliate well before your appointment, skip heavy lotions and oils the day of, and come in wearing loose, dark clothing. After your tan, staying moisturized will help your glow last through the big day — and beyond. Read the full prep details here.
4. Choose a Custom Airbrush Tan Over a Booth
Your wedding photos are forever. A custom airbrush tan means your color is tailored to your skin tone, your dress, and even the lighting for your event. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
If you’re planning your wedding and want that effortless, natural-looking glow, I’d love to help. You can book your bridal trial session here.
Can’t wait to help you glow!
The Truth About Express Spray Tans: Are They Really Better?
Curious about express spray tans? Learn whether they’re worth the hype, how long to leave them on, and how they compare to standard spray tans.
If you’ve ever searched for the best spray tan or wondered how to get glowing skin fast before a big event, chances are you’ve come across express spray tans. They promise a beautiful bronzed look in just a few hours—but are they really better than traditional tans?
For those who crave a flawless sun-kissed look without the wait, the latest express spray tan craze offers a quick airbrush tanning fix that promises a long-lasting glow. But is this glamorous shortcut truly the secret to achieving the best spray tan, or just another beauty fad?
As L.A.’s go-to spray tan destination for over 12 years, I’ve seen the buzz around express tans skyrocket—especially with last-minute events, weddings, or weekend getaways. But with faster rinse times come questions. So let’s break it down.
What Is an Express Spray Tan?
An express tan uses a rapid-developing formula that allows you to rinse off in as little as 2 to 4 hours, depending on how deep you want your color. Unlike a traditional (or “standard”) spray tan—which typically needs to stay on 8 to 12 hours—express formulas give you more flexibility without sacrificing your glow.
How It Works
Express tans don’t develop faster—they just allow for an earlier rinse. After rinsing, your tan continues to develop over the next 24 hours just like any other spray tan. Here’s a general guide:
2 hours = Light glow
3 hours = Medium tan
4+ hours = Deep bronze
You control the depth of your tan based on when you rinse.
Is an Express Spray Tan Better?
It really depends on your lifestyle and schedule. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Express Tan | Standard Tan |
|---|---|---|
| Rinse Time | 2–4 hours | 8–12 hours |
| Best For | Busy schedules, last-minute plans | Overnight color development |
| Color Development | Customizable by rinse time | Fixed level (based on formula) |
| Sleep-Friendly? | Yes | No (may transfer onto sheets) |
| Cost | Often slightly higher | Usually included in base pricing |
My Professional Opinion
Express tans are a great option for anyone, no matter your skin type. The biggest difference is convenience—you can rinse in just a few hours and still enjoy a long-lasting, flawless glow. It’s perfect if you have plans later that day or prefer not to sleep in bronzer.
You can absolutely achieve a rich, deep tan with express by simply leaving it on a little longer. Standard formulas are still a great choice too—especially if you’re used to the overnight routine or prefer the traditional rinse schedule. Both deliver beautiful results; it really comes down to your timeline and personal preference.
Pro Tips for the Best Express Tan Results
Time your rinse intentionally – The longer you leave it on (up to 4+ hours), the deeper your tan will be.
Use lukewarm water only – No soap during your first rinse, and avoid hot water.
Skip moisturizer after your first rinse – Less is more while your tan is still developing. Hold off on lotions until the next day to ensure an even, flawless finish.
Final Glow Verdict
Express spray tans offer flexibility, customization, and glow-on-the-go convenience. Whether you’re a bride, prepping for vacation, or squeezing in a last-minute appointment, they’re absolutely worth the hype—as long as they’re done by a pro who understands rinse timing, skin undertones, and formula customization.
If you're in L.A. and still not sure which option is right for you, reach out! At L.A. Sun Spray Tan, we specialize in both express and traditional airbrush tans and can help you choose the perfect fit for your event, timeline, and skin goals.
Ready to glow? Book your custom tan here.
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Discover the Benefits of Spray Tanning for a Sun-Kissed Glow
As the pursuit of a healthy and radiant complexion continues to evolve, the beauty industry presents us with various options to achieve that coveted sun-kissed glow. Among these options, spray tanning has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional tanning and tanning beds. In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of spray tanning, its benefits, and how to achieve a flawless, natural-looking tan.
What is Spray Tanning?
Spray tanning, also known as sunless tanning or airbrush tanning, involves the application of a tanning solution to the skin, which reacts with the outermost layer to produce a temporary tan. It is very similar to a dye effect. Unlike sunbathing or tanning beds, which expose the skin to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, spray tanning offers a safer alternative to achieve a beautiful tan without risking sun damage or premature aging.
Benefits of Spray Tanning:
UV-Free: Spray tanning eliminates the need for harmful UV exposure, reducing the risk of skin damage, sunburns, and skin cancer.
Faster Results: Unlike natural tanning, which may require hours of being out in the sun, spray tanning sessions are about 20 min, allowing you to achieve a gorgeous tan in a much shorter amount of time.
Customizable and Natural: Spray tanning solutions come in various shades, allowing you to select the depth of color that suits your preferences. Professional spray tan techs can also customize the application to ensure a natural-looking tan that works with your skin tone.
Even Coverage: Spray tanning ensures an even application, minimizing the likelihood of patchiness or streaks that can occur with self-tanning products.
Temporary and Fade Gracefully: Spray tans typically last for about 7-10 days, gradually fading away as your skin naturally exfoliates. This allows you to maintain a consistent tan or return to your natural skin tone as desired.
Preparing for a Spray Tan
To achieve the best results from your spray tanning session, it's important to prepare your skin adequately beforehand:
Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your skin the night before your appointment to remove dead skin cells. This helps the tanning solution adhere more evenly to your skin. Remember, spray tans sit on the top layer of your skin so you want to start with a fresh pallet.
Moisturize After Exfoliating: Use a lotion, no oils, and pay attention to dry areas such as elbows, knees, and ankles.
Avoid Makeup, Oils, Deodorants and Perfumes: On the day of your spray tan, refrain from wearing any makeup, oils, deodorants and perfumes to your appointment. These can interfere with the tanning solution's absorption and may result in an uneven tan.
During the Spray Tanning Session
When you arrive for your spray tanning appointment, you can expect the following steps:
Consultation: We will discuss your desired tan shade and decide on color and which solution to use.
Application: I will apply the tanning solution using a handheld spray gun. You will be guided through a series of quick, easy postures during the spraying process.
Drying Time: After the application, it's important to allow the tanning solution to dry. You will spend a few minutes in front of the fan.
Maintaining and Enhancing Your Spray Tan
To extend the life of your spray tan and keep it looking fresh, consider the following tips:
When showering regularly, use only a mild shower gel and apply with your hands. Do not use scrubs, shower poufs, bar soaps or Dove products as these will strip away your sunless color. Always pat dry your skin after.
After showering, moisturize daily with a basic mineral oil free body lotion. Cocoa butter, shea butter, and pure coconut oil work best. Hydrated healthy skin retains the tan longer as dry skin tends to exfoliate faster, leading to faster fading of the tan.
Whether you're prepping for a vacation, photo shoot, or just want that effortless glow year-round, a professional spray tan makes all the difference.
Your perfect glow is waiting. Book your custom tan here.
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How Often Should You Spray Tan?
How long does a spray tan last? Can you spray tan too often? And how often should you really book a session?
These are some of the most common questions I get from my clients—and honestly, they’re great ones. In this post, I’ll walk you through the answers, plus share my best insider tips to help you get the most out of your L.A. Sun Spray Tan and keep your glow looking fresh.
How long do spray tans last?
Spray tans sit on the top layer of your skin and as your skin naturally exfoliates, your tan goes with it. The “life span” of a sunless tan depends on your skin’s natural exfoliation. On average, spray tans last about 7-10 days and can last longer when properly maintained. Pre and post care are extremely important to increase the longevity of your tan.
PRE CARE: For the best spray tan results, be sure to shave, shower and exfoliate your skin the night before your spray tan session. Avoid using any oils, Dove products and bar soap when exfoliating. The best way to exfoliate is to apply a shower gel to bath mitts and scrub. You can find bath mitts at most drug stores including Rite Aide, CVS and Target. After exfoliating be sure to moisturize with a lotion, no oils. This is very important because hydrated healthy skin will retain the tan longer! The day of your appointment, don’t do anything to your skin.
POST CARE: When showering regularly, use a mild body wash and apply with your hands. Do not use any scrubs, shower poufs or bar soaps, as these will strip away your sunless color. Avoid Dove products and choose a body wash that is as natural as possible. My studio carries a great body wash that is made for spray tanning and helps to maintain the spray tan longer.
It’s best to avoid long hot showers. Always pat dry your skin after showering and moisturize daily with a basic mineral oil free body lotion- cocoa butter and shea butter work great. Pure coconut oil is also a great moisturizer for your spray tans. Apply these products immediately post-shower, while your skin is still damp, to lock in moisture. Remember, hydrated healthy skin retains the tan longer!
So, how often should you spray tan?
It really depends on your lifestyle. Some of my clients tan weekly, others come in every 10–12 days to maintain a constant glow, and some save it for big events. If you're looking to stay consistently bronzed, scheduling your spray tan every 7 to 12 days is the sweet spot for keeping your color fresh while making the most of each session.
At your appointment, I’ll share even more personalized tips (the kind that don’t make it into blog posts 😉) to help your tan last beautifully between visits.
When to Reset: Why Detoxing Matters
There’s no harm in spray tanning often, but it’s important to detox and exfoliate your skin about once a month. This ensures you’re not layering new color over old and helps your next tan apply evenly. I recommend detoxing every 4–5 weeks to give your skin a clean slate and a hydration boost.
A few ways to detox:
Take a long soak in the bath or spend time in a steam room
Swim in a chlorinated pool or relax in a hot tub
Apply baby oil with a touch of lemon, let it sit for 10 minutes, and gently exfoliate with mitts in the shower
This helps loosen old color and preps your skin for the next flawless glow.
Why L.A. Sun Spray Tan?
I use only natural, skin-loving spray tan solutions that are packed with vitamins, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA. Every tan is formulated with Eco-Cert organic DHA and designed to nourish while it bronzes—no unnecessary extras, just clean, quality ingredients.
Whether you tan weekly or just for special occasions, consistency and care are key to keeping that effortless, radiant glow. At L.A. Sun Spray Tan, I help you build a custom routine that fits your lifestyle—so you never have to wonder when it’s time to book. Consistency is key to keeping that flawless sunless glow. Whether you want a fresh tan every week or a subtle boost for special events, I’ll help you find the right rhythm. At L.A. Sun Spray Tan, I tailor your tanning plan to fit your lifestyle—so you never have to second-guess when to book.
Stay glowing. Reserve your next L.A. Sun Spray Tan now.
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Get Your Skin Ready: Essential Tips for the Perfect Spray Tan
If you want your spray tan to look amazing and last as long as possible, it all starts with one thing: hydration.
Spray tans develop on the top layer of your skin — and when your skin is healthy and hydrated, the color grabs better, fades more evenly, and looks more natural. Dry skin? It can cause patchiness, uneven fading, and a shorter lifespan for your glow.
Here’s what I recommend to get the most out of your tan:
The Night Before Your Spray Tan
Exfoliate Well
Use a simple pair of bath gloves or an exfoliating mitt (you can find them at Target, CVS, or right at my studio). Apply a mild, non-oily shower gel — I personally like Suave — and give your skin a good scrub.
(Pro Tip: Avoid Dove soaps, bar soaps, or anything moisturizing — they can leave a film that interferes with your tan.)
Shave or Wax If Needed
If you’re planning to shave or wax, do it after exfoliating — and at least a few hours before your appointment, so your skin has time to calm down.
Moisturize Lightly Before Bed
After exfoliating, apply a basic, oil-free lotion to hydrate your skin overnight. No heavy oils — just a clean, simple lotion to seal in the moisture and let your natural oils do their thing by the next day.
Extra Prep for Even Better Results
Want to boost your glow even more? Start hydrating from the inside out.
Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment.
Take Omega-3 supplements if it’s right for you — they help keep your skin soft, smooth, and ready to glow. (I personally love fish oil, but there are great vegan options too!)
Aftercare: Keep That Glow Fresh
After your spray tan, daily moisturizing is key. Apply lotion right after you shower, when your skin is still damp and your pores are open.
Stick with basic, natural moisturizers — pure coconut oil, cocoa butter, or shea butter are all great options. (The simpler, the better!)
Hydrated skin makes all the difference when it comes to your spray tan — and it’s easy to get it right with just a few small steps.
I’ll guide you through everything when you come in, so you can walk out with your best, longest-lasting glow.
Ready to glow? Book your spray tan session here.
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