CelebHomes – What are the top mistakes when spray tanning or self-tanning?
IA: I think one of the biggest mistake people make is that they exfoliate RightBefore their appointment, they will take a long shower using lots of soaps. It is important to prepare your skin for shaving 24 hours ahead of time. Streaks can be caused by razor residue left over from prior shaving. It is not a good idea to shave. Right Before you start tanning.

You need to do all your skin preparation the day before because if you do not, your pores are wide open. You can exfoliate and shower a lot. Right before your spray tanning or self-tanning appointment, the chances are the self-tan or spray tan will not achieve its dark color because your pores are wide open.

CelebHomes: Is part of that because showering changes your pH levels? 
Because it can take several hours for pH levels to return to normal after a shower, IA says yes. Warm water will soften the skin because of the amino acids. You can spray or apply tanner. Right after a shower is really going to reduce the darkness that could be achieved compared to if you showered the night before instead.

CelebHomes: How about the first shower after tan? These are some tips to help you avoid ruining your tan.
IA: You need to use warm water. Take your time, particularly if the tanner has a cosmetic browner, which you will see in the shower. It is not the tanning that you want to remove, but rather the bronzer. It is important to really take your time, use no soap and wash your skin thoroughly.

Many people complain that their tan looks streaky. This is often due to not washing the bronzer completely in the shower. Rinse your skin until the water is clear. You will know that you’ve rinsed thoroughly. 

You can see your tan for up to 24 hours. This is why it’s important to avoid soapy first showers.