WHAT TO EXPECT FOR YOUR COMPETITION TANNING

Your tan is a critical part of your stage presentation. Following the Top Gun Tanning skin prep instructions ensures a flawless, even, stage-ready tan.

Step 0: The Foundation — Skin Prep

(Critical Step many competitors avoid. A flawless tan cannot be built on neglected skin)

• Start at least 4 weeks before your show for best results
• During peak week, your prep becomes more focused and precise
• Follow our skin prep instructions exactly — we are the professionals who know what works for competition spray tanning
• Proper prep impacts:
  • Even coverage
  • Longevity
  • Color development
• Schedules for tanning will be emailed to the address used for booking, usually by Wednesday at 6 PM of peak week

Step 1: Arrival (Day before the show)

• You'll arrive and check in with our team
• You'll be assigned a private dry tent for all belongings (clothing, shoes, bags)
• Keep everything inside until after your tan

Step 2: Prep

• Undress completely
• Team provides:
  • Hair net
  • Barrier cream for palms, nails, toenails
  • Assistance with sticky feet

Step 3: Base Tan

• Enter the tanning tent for 2 back-to-back coats in one session
• After spraying, return to dry tent so your tan can dry:
  • Hands wiped clean
  • Sticky feet removed
  • Signature drying powder applied

Step 4: Develop

• Tan takes 12 hours to fully develop
• Avoid putting on your suit — friction can damage your tan
• Premature suit wear can smudge your tan, stain fabric, or — for female divisions — suit connectors can break. If absolutely necessary, wait minimum 3 hours to put a suit on before checking with your coach; we advise only putting your suit on once max before show day if absolutely required

Step 5: Touch-Ups & Final Coats (Show day)

• On show day, touch-ups are done before stepping on stage
• 1–2 additional coats may be applied depending on tan development
• Ensures final color is even, flawless, and stage-ready

Key Reminders:

• Start skin prep early and follow instructions carefully
• Stay dry after base tan
• No jewelry or tight clothing during tanning
• Hair must remain in hair net until touch-ups
• Trust the Top Gun team — our recommendations are designed for competition success