
Frequently Asked Questions.
How do I enter the studio? (Lincoln Park)
The Lincoln Park studio door is around the corner from FoxTrot on Fremont. Press “Directory” on the panel, “Rae Does Beauty”, and hit “Call”. You will see the prompt when the door is unlocked.
How do I enter the studio? (West Loop)
The West Loop studio is located in Legendary Lash and Nail. When you enter 26 S Halsted, you will go to the second floor. The staff at Legendary Lash and Nail will direct you to the spray tan room.
I’m a new client, how should I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment right here! Please choose “New Client Consultation” along with the services you are trying to book to ensure we have enough time together.
How do I book a mobile tan appointment?
Head over to the Mobile Tan page for all your FAQ’s regarding mobile tanning and how it works!
How should I prep for my tan?
You want your skin to be freshly exfoliated, sweat-free, and moisturizer-free. (No soaps, residues, or lotions.) It’s encouraged to use a light moisturizer on your face prior to tanning. Please make sure to shave, wax, get your nails done, and exfoliate prior to your appointment.
I don’t encourage large body waxing services the same day as your tan, so please try to do any body waxing 24 hours prior. Facial waxing day of is no problem.
You’ll need to make sure you allow enough time for developing, depending on which spray tan solution you choose. While your tan is developing, you should avoid getting wet, sweating, wearing tight clothes, or using a moisturizer. All of these things are fine once you’ve rinsed!
I recommend moisturizing daily post-shower to ensure your skin stays hydrated, as this will maximize the longevity of your tan. Certain products and activities can affect the life of your tan such as: swimming in chlorine or salt water, excessively sweaty workouts, “sport” types of sunscreens, and any products with drying properties such alcohol.
On average, your spray tan should last 5-10 days. This can vary based on skin type, post-tan activities, and how well your skin retains moisture.
What are the contraindications or things I should avoid before facial waxing?
People who use the following products should avoid waxing: Retin-A’s, retinols, acne medication (topical or oral), or any topical cream used on the face that was prescribed by a dermatologist.
If you have received a facial (medical or basic), please consult that esthetician on the timeline for your next wax. Other things that can cause sensitivity or reaction include, but are not limited to: antihistamines, stress, and medications.
How long should my hair be for body waxing?
It truly depends on the area being waxed and the texture of the hair, but a general rule of thumb is at least the length of a grain of rice. If your hair is more coarse, or you generally shave on a regular basis, please grow it slightly longer. I know it can be hard to grow out, but it actually yields you better results when the wax can properly grab and remove all the hairs. You’ll end up with a more smooth and clean wax!
Another great practice is to exfoliate the day or two before your wax. This ensures all the dead skin cells have been removed and won’t impede on hair removal.
Where can I find a list of products you recommend?
Check out my Amazon Storefront ! You’ll find some of my favorite products for beauty and beyond. I earn a small commission on any items purchased from those links.
Stay tuned for more products available in my space to purchase!
What do I wear during my tan and after?
That’s totally your choice! I never judge — I’ve seen it all! From birthday suits (men and women) to full one-piece swimsuits to thongs to shorts to a sock for the guys! Truly up to you! Ladies, I will always provide you with the option of a disposable thong. Think about what tan lines you would/would not want and the swimsuits or outfits you may be wearing!
Post-tan, I recommend the loosest clothes possible to let your solution set, dry, and breath. Anything that leaves a crease or dent in your skin after taking if off should be avoided! (ex. sports bras, socks, tight jeans, etc.)
If I’m pregnant or nursing, can I get a spray tan?
The answer is yes, but always check with your doctor first. DHA, the main ingredient in all self-tanning products, is safe to be used topically when pregnant and nursing. I’ve had plenty of happy mothers-to-be who love treating themselves to this service while pregnant.
If you’re nursing, I highly recommend bringing a strapless bra, one you wouldn’t mind getting sprayed (although it will rinse out in the laundry!), and make sure it has the clasps and closures to easily take on/off! I’ll explain why when you arrive and we consult.
What day should I book my spray tan before my vacation or event?
I always recommend 1-2 days before your event or vacation. Everyone has different preferences so this is a more personal decision, but if you’re going on an extended vacation, I would highly recommend the day/night before to ensure it’s freshness and longevity!
Can I get a lash lift, body wax, or facial waxing the same day as my tan?
Facial waxing is fine to do BEFORE your spray tan appointment. If I’m not the one doing your facial waxing, please make sure that your esthetician fully cleans all wax and oils off your face. Doing any waxing service immediately or days after your tan may result in complete removal of your tan.
Regarding body waxing, I highly recommend at least 24 hours BEFORE your spray tan appointment. This guarantees all wax residue and oils are off your skin and won’t block the absorption of the spray tan. When it comes to lash lifting, you cannot get your lashes wet for 24 hours after your appointment, so trying to rinse off your tan without compromising your lashes is tricky! Best to split them up.
If I just got Botox when can I get my brows done again?
If you recently got Botox around your eyebrows/forehead area, I highly recommend waiting the two week settling period to do any brow waxing, threading, or tweezing. This ensures the muscles and Botox are set and won’t result in uneven eyebrows. It’s best to get your brows done BEFORE your Botox and same goes for any sort of medical-grade facial. Tinting is fine to do at any point post-Botox.
What if it’s “that time of the month” and I have an appointment for a body wax or tan?
As most of us know, we can’t always plan around these things. I am 100% comfortable with anyone still getting their service, as long as you have a feminine product in place (i.e. a tampon, cup, etc). If you are uncomfortable with that and choose to cancel within the 48 hour window, you will be charged the 50% cancellation fee.
Can I get a spray tan if my skin is peeling?
My answer is NO! Whether you have a sunburn and are peeling or you got a chemical peel or other service that has caused your skin to peel, it is not advised to spray tan over that. The dry skin will soak up the tan darker and the new skin will not take color at all, which will leave you looking like a splotchy mess. You know I’m not trying to have anyone walking around looking like that!
If you choose to do this, please know that I am not responsible and you will not get a refund or credit. If your skin is peeling from a facial, you can always opt to skip spraying your face and only do your body. Moral of the story? Wear SPF, protect your skin, and don’t get a sunburn in the first place, OK?! OK!
Is self-tanner okay to use before/after a brow tint?
NO! Please do not use any self-tanner (this includes all drops, sprays, mousse, etc.) 48 hours before or after your brow tinting appointment.
The tint and DHA in the tan products oxidizes the skin under your brow hairs causing a very unwanted yellow-y/orange cast. It goes away after a few washes, but it’s better to avoid it all together.
If you’re spray tanning with me after your brow tint, I’ll always put Vaseline over your brows to prevent this from happening!
What should I expect from the brow lamination?
Click here for all the information about brow laminations.