Spray tan scrub; Salt, Sugar, or Coffee?
Spray Tan Scrub & Spray Tan Remover Guide
With so many spray tan scrubs and spray tan removers on the market, choosing the right exfoliant
can feel overwhelming. The right scrub plays a critical role in both preparing the skin for an
even spray tan and safely removing an old tan without irritation.
Understanding how exfoliation works — and how different scrubs interact with the skin — helps
you achieve better color, longer wear, and smoother fading.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that naturally build up on the surface of the skin.
These dry cells block even DHA absorption and are the main cause of patchy spray tan
development and uneven fading.
Manual exfoliation is the most effective method for spray tanning because it provides
controlled removal of dead skin without disrupting the skin’s pH balance.
Types of Spray Tan Scrubs
Salt Scrubs
Salt scrubs provide the most aggressive form of manual exfoliation and are best reserved
for thick, calloused areas such as feet, elbows, and knees.
Sugar Scrubs
Sugar scrubs are the most versatile spray tan scrub option. They exfoliate effectively
while remaining gentle enough for sensitive skin and facial use.
Coffee Scrubs
Coffee scrubs stimulate circulation and temporarily firm the skin. However, many formulas
are too abrasive or oil-heavy for spray tan prep.
Salt
: Most salt scrubs are from sea salt, which are natural purifiers which remove toxins that block the pores of the skin. The different sea salts include Himalayan, Mediterranean, Hawaiian and Dead Sea Salts. These various salts have different trace minerals, which contain calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, and iron. The minerals help to promote circulation, reduce the inflammatory response and act as a detoxifying agent. Salt scrubs are generally more abrasive because of their harsh shape; therefore, salt is an excellent choice for where the skin gets unusually dry and calloused and will do a better job at smoothing the rough surfaces of the body like elbows and feet. It is not recommended one use a salt scrub on sensitive areas, especially the face. The sharp edges are known to create micro scratches on the skin which can cause breakout and pre-mature aging.
Pro tip: Balance is the key; after any salt scrub has been applied and washed off, apply a rich
moisturizing cream to replenish the skin’s moisture. Remember salt scrubs are great but they are
abrasive and are NOT intended for daily use (1–2 times per week only).
Salt scrubs are best used as a targeted spray tan remover for stubborn buildup, not as a full-body
pre-tan exfoliant.
Sugar & Coffee Scrubs for Spray Tan Prep
Sugar scrubs are the safest and most effective option for full-body spray tan preparation.
Their rounded granules exfoliate without cutting the skin, making them ideal for sensitive
areas and the face.
Coffee scrubs contain caffeine, which temporarily tightens the skin and improves circulation.
However, many coffee scrubs contain oils that can block DHA absorption and should be avoided
before spray tanning.
Check out Sjolie Sugar Scrub
- Use sugar scrubs for gentle, even spray tan removal
- Reserve salt scrubs for thick, calloused areas only
- Avoid oil-based scrubs before any spray tan service
- Exfoliate 24–48 hours before your appointment
Spray Tan Scrub FAQs
Sugar-based scrubs are the best spray tan scrub option because they exfoliate evenly without irritating the skin.
Yes, but only gentle sugar scrubs. Salt and coffee scrubs are too abrasive for facial skin.
Exfoliate once, 24–48 hours before your spray tan. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation and uneven color.
No. Exfoliating the same day can leave the skin sensitized and disrupt DHA absorption.
Spray Tan Remover FAQs
Manual exfoliation with a sugar scrub combined with warm water is the safest way to remove a spray tan.
Yes, but they should only be used on thick skin areas like feet or elbows.
Uneven fading is usually caused by poor exfoliation or dry skin shedding at different rates.
When used correctly and not overused, spray tan removers are safe and effective.