Introducing the “Split Test”

The Spray Tan Series That Shows the Truth

Most people think a spray tan is a color.
A shade.
A level of “light, medium, or dark.”

But the truth is: a spray tan is chemistry.
It’s undertones, DHA percentages, rinse timing, and how those elements interact with your skin.

That’s why I created Split Test — a realistic, side-by-side series where I spray one leg with a specific solution or custom mixture… and leave the other leg bare, or spray a different formula entirely. Same lighting, same skin, same moment. Nothing edited. No filters. Nothing exaggerated. Just clean, honest comparisons.

If you’ve ever wondered why some tans look smooth and balanced and others look muddy or uneven, this series will answer every question.

Why a Split Test Matters

Photos can lie. Filters can lie.
Even lighting can lie.

But a split test?
A bare leg next to a custom-tanned leg tells the entire story..

Here’s why this matters:

1. Undertone matching can make or break a tan

Every solution has a different undertone:

• Olive

• Violet

• Brown

• Neutral

If the undertone fights your natural skin, the tan can look off — even if the color seems right in the bottle.

2. Darker doesn’t mean better

A split test shows how much smoother and more flattering a properly matched formula looks compared to a shade that’s simply too deep. What may be too deep on one person could be perfect on another. What may be too warm on one person could be just right for someone else. We all have preferences and one size definiteley does not fit all.

3. Mixtures can outperform single formulas

Some of my best tans come from blending two solutions:

• A little depth from one

• A little undertone correction from another

• A perfect rinse window that avoids overdevelopment

A split test proves the power of precise mixing.

What You’ll See in This Series

Each episode will focus on a different combination, such as:

• One leg bare / one leg Bronzite Medium + Obsidian X blend

• Classic vs Rapid solutions

• Olive-based vs violet-based undertones

• Single formula vs custom mixture

• Recommended rinse window vs over-developed color

You’ll be able to SEE:

• How the solution absorbs

• How the color reads in natural light

• How undertones shift the finish

• How texture looks softer on the tanned side

• How different blends create the different results

Why I’m Sharing This As a Professional

Most people think a spray tan is simple.
This series shows why the details matter — and why a professional’s eye makes all the difference.

My goal is to create transparency, teach you what to look for, and help you understand what your skin truly needs so that when you do go to a professional you are armed with knowledge and can ask the right questions.

Follow Along

You can watch every episode of Split Test on Instagram at
@sho__skin__spray__tan

If you’re curious about which formula would work best for your skin:
→ Book a custom session
→ Ask about undertone matching
→ Or schedule a consultation

How to Prep for a Spray Tan

By Sho | Luxury Spray Tanning in Hudson Valley, NY

A great spray tan starts long before the solution hits your skin. The truth is, even the best technique and equipment can’t fix poor prep. A few small steps the day before and the day of your appointment can mean the difference between an even, long-lasting tan and a streaky mess that fades fast. Here’s exactly how to prep so your color develops perfectly.

1. Exfoliate the Right Way

Smooth skin means even color. Use a gentle exfoliating mitt or scrub 24 hours before your appointment to remove dry skin, old self-tanner, or residue from lotions and body wash.
Skip anything oily — you want clean, fresh skin, not a slippery surface. If you shave, do it now so your pores have time to close.

2. Moisturize Strategically

I know you are sick of hearing this but I have to say it - DRINK LOTS OF WATER. There, that’s it! Hydrated skin absorbs color better, but you don’t want heavy product sitting on top.
Moisturize well the day before, focusing on elbows, knees, ankles, and hands. On the day of your tan, skip lotions, perfume, and deodorant altogether. Any barrier on the skin can block the solution and cause uneven patches.

3. Avoid Makeup, Oils, and Deodorant

Come to your appointment with clean, bare skin. Makeup, sunscreen, oils, and deodorant can all react with the tanning solution or prevent color from taking evenly.
If you’re coming from work or errands, bring wipes or a washcloth to do a quick clean-off before your session. You artist (me hopefully!) will likely have things items available if you need them.

4. Dress for Comfort and Success

Choose loose, dark clothing. Avoid tight waistbands, bras, or leggings after your session. A soft cotton dress, oversized tee, or joggers are perfect.
If you’re doing a mobile appointment, make sure you have a private, well-lit space ready for setup and a fan or open window for airflow.

5. Know Your Schedule

Plan your tan around your life. You’ll need to stay dry for 8–12 hours after your appointment (no sweating, showering, or washing dishes).
If you’re prepping for an event, book your spray tan one to two days before. That gives the color time to develop and settle naturally.

6. Communicate With Your Artist

If you have allergies, sensitive skin, special events, or want a specific tone, tell your spray tan artist in advance. A good artist customizes the formula to your skin tone and goals. At Sho – Skin, every tan is blended and adjusted so it looks like your best skin — not a different color.

Final Thoughts

A spray tan should look effortless — but that depends on smart prep. Exfoliate, hydrate, and arrive with clean, product-free skin. Treat your skin well before your session, and your tan will thank you with an even, natural glow that lasts the full week.

Sho – Skin offers luxury mobile and in-studio spray tanning in Germantown and the Hudson Valley, NY, customized for all ages, skin tones, and lifestyles.

Book your next appointment: sho-skin.com/book
Questions? DM @sho__skin__spray__tan

5 Things to Avoid After a Spray Tan

By Sho | Luxury Spray Tanning in Hudson Valley, NY

You finally got your tan. You look healthy, even, bronzed. Don’t ruin it by doing the wrong things right after. A spray tan isn’t hard to maintain — you just need to give it a little care. Here’s what to avoid if you want that color to last a full week.

1. Showering Too Soon OR Too Late

Your color needs time to develop. Rinsing off early washes away the bronzer before it’s set.
Your color can also OVER DEVELOP. It is very important to follow the instructions you have been given. If your artist says it is ok to sleep in, fine. If your artist says wash in 4-5 hours, make sure to do that. Every solution is different and reacts differently on different skin/undertones. Your spray tan artist has chosen the best solution and soak length specifically for YOU. It is not one size fits all and thinking “oh, longer means darker”, can wind up turning you orange or giving you an unnatural appearance.
When you do take your first shower, skip hot water and harsh soaps — use lukewarm water and your hands, not a loofah.

2. Sweating It Out

The gym, sauna, and even that long walk can wait. Sweat streaks your tan before it bonds with your skin.

3. Wearing Tight Clothes

Leggings, bras, socks, and jeans will rub off pigment while it’s still developing.
Loose cotton is your friend. Think soft, flowy, comfortable. If you know you will need to were something tight, consider that before making your appointment. Also consider discussing a rapid solution with your artist. Those can (and should) be rinsed off much sooner than regular solutions.

4. Using Oil-Based Products

Oil breaks down your tan quickly.
Stick with water-based or lightweight moisturizers designed for post-tan hydration. Read your labels — anything with mineral oil is the enemy.

5. Shaving or Exfoliating Too Soon

A spray tan sits on the top layer of your skin. When you exfoliate or shave, you’re literally taking the tan off.
Wait at least 48 hours before shaving, and use a fresh razor with light pressure. It is also helpful to use hair conditioner instead of soap or shaving cream. Whatever promotes moisture will extend the life of your tan. Avoid scrubs and exfoliating mitts until the color starts to fade naturally.

Bonus: Moisturize Daily

As stated above, hydrated skin means longer tan life.
Apply moisturizer morning and night. Dry skin flakes faster, which makes your color fade unevenly. And as with everything else - drinking lots of water is always beneficial!

Final Thoughts

A spray tan is a low-maintenance luxury — and it should feel like one. Follow these simple rules, and you’ll keep that even, natural color for a full 5–7 days, sometimes longer.

I offer mobile and in-studio spray tanning in Germantown and the Hudson Valley, customized for every age, skin tone, and lifestyle.

Book your next appointment here: sho-skin.com/book
Questions? DM me on Instagram @sho__skin__spray__tan