The Top 7 Myths First-Time Spray Tanners Still Believe
If you’ve never had a spray tan before, chances are you’ve heard a few horror stories.
Orange skin. Streaks. Smelling weird. Looking fake.
We hear it all the time from first-time clients walking into Apres Soleil in Walnut Creek, and almost every single one leaves saying:
“That was not what I expected at all.”
Let’s clear up the biggest myths we still hear from first-time spray tanners.
Myth #1: “I’m going to look orange.”
The biggest fear. And the most outdated.
Modern spray tanning solutions are formulated with advanced undertone technology. When customized properly, they enhance your natural skin tone, they don’t change it.
At Apres Soleil, every appointment includes a consultation where we assess:
Your skin tone
Your undertones
Your lifestyle and upcoming events
How subtle or bold you want your glow
Our goal is simple:
You… just warmer, healthier, and more radiant.
Not orange. Ever.
Myth #2: “Spray tans look fake.”
Old-school booth tans gave spray tanning a bad reputation.
Today’s custom airbrush spray tans are hand-applied and tailored to your body. That means:
Contouring is subtle and natural
No over-sprayed elbows or knees
Even development
A finish that photographs beautifully
Many of our clients in Walnut Creek and Lafayette come in before:
Weddings
Vacations
School events
Photo shoots
Holiday parties
And most people never guess it’s a spray tan. They just say, “You look so healthy.”
Myth #3: “I’ll smell weird.”
Older spray tanning formulas had a strong after-scent.
Modern solutions are far more refined. And we use premium, clean formulations that develop gently and evenly. Our coconut aroma drops smell like vacation and are a fan favorite for a reason.
You’ll rinse after your development time and be left with a soft, natural glow, not a chemical smell.
Myth #4: “It’s embarrassing.”
This one is emotional.
If you’re nervous about the experience itself, we understand.
At Apres Soleil, privacy and comfort are part of the service. You are guided through the entire process step-by-step. We explain positioning, timing, and what to expect so you never feel unsure.
Our studio is warm (yes, heated floors in winter), calm, and welcoming. Many first-time clients say they felt more comfortable than they imagined.
This is not a rushed booth experience. It’s personal and customized.
Myth #5: “It’s only for summer.”
Winter is actually one of the best times for a spray tan.
Skin is typically:
Healthier
Less sun-damaged
More evenly toned
That means color develops beautifully and fades more gracefully.
Many of our East Bay clients maintain a subtle glow year-round for:
Confidence
Events
Work
Date nights
Or simply feeling polished
Spray tanning isn’t about being dark. It’s about feeling radiant. #tanforlife
Myth #6: “It won’t last.”
With proper prep and aftercare, your spray tan can last 7–10 days.
We provide clear prep instructions before your appointment and aftercare guidance to extend your glow.
Consistency makes everything easier. Many clients in Walnut Creek and Lafayette maintain a routine every 2–3 weeks for effortless upkeep.
Myth #7: “I can just do it at home.”
At-home mousses and drugstore sprays can work for some, but they’re often:
Hard to apply evenly
Easy to overdo
Difficult to blend around hands and ankles
A professional custom spray tan is:
Even
Contoured
Tailored to your undertones
Applied with professional technique
There’s a reason so many first-timers say: “I should have done this sooner.”
Thinking About Your First Spray Tan in Walnut Creek?
If you’re in Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Danville, or the surrounding East Bay and you’ve been curious, this is your sign.
Your first appointment includes:
A consultation
Customized color matching
Application by a trained specialist
Aftercare guidance
A warm, boutique experience
No pressure. No orange. No awkwardness. Just a glow that feels like you.
Ready to Book?
Whether you’re prepping for an event or simply want to feel more confident walking into your week, we’d love to welcome you.