Top Gun Tanning — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove my tan after the show?
Use a professional-grade remover designed for competition colour.
Products like E Rayz It are the most effective option — especially for athletes competing on back-to-back weekends.
A secondary option:
• Lemon juice + sugar scrub
• Gently exfoliate in the shower with warm water
• Moisturize thoroughly after
Do not use baking soda.
It damages the skin and will impact future tan applications.
When should I start skin prep?
Skin prep should begin at least 7 days out from your show.
This allows enough time to properly exfoliate, rebalance the skin, and correct any issues before your base tan.
Last-minute prep leads to inconsistent results.
What are the best products to use for skin prep?
The gold standard is a professional-grade skin prep system designed specifically for competition tanning.
The LSR Skin Prep Kit is built for this purpose and delivers the most consistent, stage-ready result.
Drugstore products can be used, but they must be:
• Oil-free
• Fragrance-free
• Free of heavy residue
Your result is only as good as your prep. No shortcuts.
How long does the tan last?
Typically 5–10 days, depending on:
• Washing frequency
• Skin condition
• Post-show care
Are tanning touch-ups included?
FREELANCE VS. OFFICIAL PROVIDER
When Top Gun is the official provider, we are backstage for all necessary touch-ups.
When we are freelancing, you will be provided with a Top Gun Extraction Kit, which includes:
• Gloves
• Glaze
• Touch-up foam
You are responsible for maintaining your tan once you leave our chair.
We provide the tools. You provide the discipline.
What is your cancellation policy?
We do not offer refunds.
By booking, you acknowledge that you are purchasing a dedicated time slot and product allocation.
If you fail to show or follow prep, the loss is yours.
• Cancellations are issued as store credit only
• Credits are valid for 1 year from the original event date
• A second postponement results in forfeiture of the original booking
Store credit is a courtesy, not a right.
No exceptions.
How do appointment times work on show day?
We operate on a structured, division-based system.
• Each division is assigned a service window
• Athletes must arrive within that window
• Services are performed first come, first served within your division
Arrive early. Delays are your responsibility.
Show day touch-up times are typically provided at the athlete check-in/meeting.
When will I receive my show schedule?
Schedules are sent Wednesday of peak week to the email used at booking.
• Check your inbox and junk folder
• Updates may also be posted on @topguntanning
Do I need to book my tan in advance, or can I book last minute?
Booking in advance is mandatory.
We staff and prepare based on confirmed athletes.
Walk-ins are subject to a $50 On-Site Convenience Fee and are not guaranteed.
If you choose not to book in advance, you are gambling with your stage look.
What happens if I miss my appointment time?
If you miss your appointment, we will attempt to accommodate you — but there are no guarantees.
If tanning for the day is complete, you will need to wait until the next available window. This may impact your final result.
Be on time. No exceptions.
What should I wear to my tanning appointment?
Loose, dark clothing only.
After your tan:
• No underwear
• No tight clothing
• Flip-flops only
Anything tight will compromise your result.
Can I shower after my tan?
No.
Do not shower until after finals are complete unless specifically instructed otherwise.
Water will ruin your base.
What should I avoid before my tan?
Avoid ALL of the following before your appointment:
• Deodorant
• Lotion or body butter
• Oils
• Fragrances
• Homemade scrubs
• Baking soda
• Alcohol-based products
No workouts prior to your base tan.
Your skin must be clean, dry, and properly prepped. No excuses.
Do you offer glazing and suit glue?
Yes — when we are the official provider, glaze and suit glue are included.
For freelance events:
• Glaze will be provided
• Suit glue must be purchased separately
What happens if I’m competing in multiple classes or divisions?
Your number of classes does not change your tanning process.
Our colour is designed to last — but it is not indestructible.
You are responsible for maintaining your tan throughout the day.
Do you travel to all shows or only select events?
We attend select events each season.
Our confirmed schedule is listed on our website.
If you want us at your show — create demand.
Will my tan stain my clothes or sheets?
Yes — it can.
While our formula is high quality, we do not guarantee against transfer.
Wear dark, loose clothing and use bedding you don’t care about.
Take responsibility for protecting your environment.
What makes your tanning different from other companies?
Execution.
We operate with structure, efficiency, and experience under real show conditions.
No guesswork. No chaos. No shortcuts.
You show up ready — we deliver a stage-ready finish.
What if I have sensitive skin or allergies?
Inform us in advance.
It is your responsibility to communicate any sensitivities prior to your appointment.
How dark will my tan be?
Darker than anything you are used to.
This is stage colour — built for harsh lighting, not everyday appearance.
Final depth will vary based on your skin tone and prep.
Can I use another company’s tan and still get touch-ups from you?
No.
We do not work over other companies’ products.
If you want our finish, you use our system. No mixing.
What happens if my tan gets damaged before stage?
Minor issues can be corrected.
Major damage is preventable — and usually comes down to athlete error.
Follow instructions. Protect your tan.
Do I choose my appointment time?
No.
Appointments are assigned based on division and class order.
Your scheduled time will be sent during peak week.
Be ready.