Schedule your tan around your day. With most spray tans, you won't be able to shower for six to eight hours after. If you go in the evening after work, you won't be able to shower until the next morning.

Never go straight from your spray tan to an important event. While spray tan liquid is clear, most tan technicians add a brown pigment so they can see where they're applying it. The tan color washes away, but the clear liquid takes time to develop. During that time, the temporary color looks a bit unnatural, especially as the tanning agent under it continues to develop. Best-case scenario, you'll look like you picked too dark a foundation -- worst-case, everyone will question if you rolled in dirt.

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Perhaps it goes without saying that you shouldn't waltz into a spray tan booth the day before your wedding or reunion, but if you're the impulsive type, take heed: Do a test run a few weeks ahead of time. Besides getting an idea of the level of color you'd like for your event, it's a good idea to see how your skin reacts to the formula. Those with ultra-sensitive skin my experience a rash that lasts for a few days in rare instances.

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Some tanning formulas contain walnut or almond extract, and while typically those ingredients don't cause a reaction when applied topically, inhaling them can be problematic if your nut allergy is severe.

Speaking of inhaling, wear a nose piece to avoid breathing in the spray, regardless of any nut allergies. The facility should be well-ventilated, too.

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Short answer: It depends on the prep.

Exfoliating and shaving before your spray tan is the best way to make sure it lasts as long as possible (7 to 10 days) and goes on evenly, according to Evans. You want the tan to apply to fresh skin cells, not the ones that are about to shed, says Evans. Use an oil-free exfoliating method, like Earth Therapeutics Super Loofah Exfoliating Wash Cloth, $6.

Plan to shave at least 10 to 12 hours before if you can. Shaving can sometimes irritate skin, and that's the last thing you want before getting a spray tan.

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Deodorant, makeup, perfume, that ring your grandmother gave you that you never take off -- all of it has to go. Not only do you want to protect your jewelry from an instant bronzing, you want to make sure that nothing interferes with the tanning agent adhering to your skin.

Most spray tan salons have makeup removing wipes, but it's best to just come without anything on in the first place.

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