Some useful things to think about if you're planning a spray tan:

• Plan the Tan. Which day do you want to look your best? Book a spray tan a day or two before. If your planning a night on the town, make sure you have your spray tan earlier in the day so that you can have a shower before heading out. At NordiK we now offer a 2 hour "wash and wear" spray tan- perfect for that last minute invitation!

   

• Always make sure you exfoliate your skin. If you haven't done it for a while, try and do it every couple of days heading up to your spray tan. Concentrate especially on the knees, feet, elbows and ankles.

  

• If you can, have a shower before the appointment — try and remove any moisturiser, deodorant and sweat.

   

• Wear lose, dark clothing to your appointment — even go sans bra if you can. Remember to take thongs — slipping strappy heels straight back on can rub the colour off your feet.

• Don't be shy. Our spray tanners have seen it all; from drag queens to grandmas in the nude. The less you wear, the better the results. If you feel more comfortable wearing your underwear, go ahead. Otherwise take advantage of the paper panties provided.

   

• There's no point forking out the dollars if you're going to head straight to the gym. You'll just sweat and your colour will either come off or might become patchy.

   

• Wait at least six hours before washing if you have had a bonza bronz spray tan, 2 hours if you've had a Techno tan, and remember: it's normal for colour to come off when you first shower. Keep your water temperature at cool to warm and don't scrub your skin. Instead, gently wash your body (without a loofah) and when drying, pat your skin rather than rub it.

   

• Keep all-over moisturised over the next week. You can't prevent your body's the natural shedding of skin cells, but you can keep your skin hydrated as the tan fades.