Getting naked in front of a stranger and letting them spray your whole body with a peculiar brown liquid may not sound like your idea of a good time. There are many occasions when a spray tan will save your skin, sanity, and ensemble. If you've never had one before, it can be a daunting experience. Here are six things to expect when you go for your first spray tan.

1. Barefaced

Don't wear foundation when getting a spray tan. It's easiest to simply not put any on the day you go, but if you are already wearing it, make sure you remove it when you get to the salon. Most beauty salons provide make-up remover and facial wipes for this purpose. You should also remove deodorant, as it will function as a barrier to the fake tanning formula.

2. Ditch your knickers

Your beauty therapist will wait outside while you undress. Don't be shy, ditch your bra and knickers. They are consummate professionals and it's nothing they haven't seen a thousand times before. The last thing you want is unsightly tan lines and fake tan all over your unmentionables.

3. Be prepared

Take disposable knickers, or a thong you don't mind staining, to wear on your way home. You will also want to take a turban, or hair net, to protect your hair, but be sure to leave your ears out!

4. Know your shade

Your beauty therapist will ask you how dark you want your fake tan. Make sure you have decided ahead of time, and can easily articulate the specific shade you want. If you can reference an image, or a particular celebrity, to give them a good idea that will help. It's also good to tell them the occasion your fake tan is for i.e. a wedding or two-week holiday. If you need your fake tan to last longer it will need to be darker, while a single day occasion like a wedding requires a lighter shade.

5. The tanning 'tent'

A tanning tent is a single person pod with a front opening. Your beauty therapist will generally begin by applying the tanning formula using a spray gun and starting with your face. Follow their advice, close your eyes and take deep breaths. The first thing you will notice is that it's really cold – this is normal!

6. Top-down

While beauty therapists have different methods, they generally work from the top down. They will also usually do your front first, followed by your back. They will likely ask you to lean over, so your bottom sticks out; don't worry, this is normal and will ensure proper tan coverage. If you don't stick out your derriere you will end up with white patches and creases. You will also be asked to claw your hands, when they are being done, to prevent knuckle creases.

For more information and advice on fake tanning get in touch, we are here to help.