MNE Beauty Blog | Makeup, Skincare & Fashion Tips

First Norvell Spray Tan: What You Need to Know

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 23:37:40 GMT

How to prepare, what to wear, and how to maintain a beautiful sunless glow...

Quick Answer: How Should You Prepare for Your First Norvell Spray Tan?

Exfoliate and complete shaving or waxing 24–48 hours beforehand. Arrive with clean, dry skin free from lotion, deodorant, perfume, and makeup. Wear loose, dark clothing afterward, follow the rinse time provided by your tanning team, and moisturize daily. With proper preparation and aftercare, a Norvell spray tan can remain beautiful for approximately five to seven days.

How Should You Prepare for a Spray Tan?

Great spray-tan results begin before you step inside the booth. Exfoliation removes dry, dead skin cells that can otherwise cause color to develop unevenly or fade in patches.

For the smoothest application, complete the following beauty treatments approximately 24–48 hours before your appointment:

Exfoliating
Shaving
Waxing
Manicures and pedicures
Hair coloring or similar treatments

Pay extra attention to naturally dry areas such as your knees, elbows, ankles,s and feet, but avoid aggressive scrubbing that could irritate your skin. Norvell recommends exfoliating approximately 24 hours before a sunless-tanning session and completing other beauty treatments before the day of application. Review Norvell’s official preparation guidance .

On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean, dry skin. Avoid applying body lotion, oils, deodorant, perfume, or makeup unless your local tanning team directs you otherwise. These products can create a barrier between the tanning solution and your skin.

What Should You Wear to Your Appointment?

Wear loose, dark,k and comfortable clothing to your Norvell spray-tan appointment. Dark clothing helps minimize concerns about temporary cosmetic bronzer transfer, while a relaxed fit reduces rubbing against freshly applied color.

Good choices include:

A loose T-shirt or oversized top
Relaxed pants, shorts, or a comfortable dress
Dark-colored undergarments
Open or loose-fitting shoes

Avoid tight leggings, restrictive waistbands, snug bras, tall socks,s and shoes with tight straps immediately after your session. Friction and pressure can interfere with the developing color, especially around the waist, shoulders, ankles, and feet.

If rain is in the forecast, bring an umbrella and clothing that protects your skin. Water droplets can leave marks on a fresh spray tan before the solution has finished developing.

What Happens During a Norvell Spray-Tan Booth Session?

Your local beauty team will explain the booth process and help you select the appropriate tanning option before your session begins. Once inside, follow the booth’s instructions and change positions as directed so the tanning solution can be applied evenly.

The cosmetic bronzer creates immediate visible color, but that first glow is not the final result. The active sunless color continues developing underneath over the following hours. Depending on the Norvell solution used, full color may take approximately 18–24 hours to develop.

Do not worry if the initial bronzer appears darker than expected. Some of that surface color is designed to rinse away during your first shower, revealing the developed tan underneath.

When Can You Shower After a Norvell Spray Tan?

Your correct rinse time depends on the specific Norvell solution selected for your session.

Traditional Norvell solutions generally require approximately eight hours before the first rinse. Rapid solutions may allow a warm-water rinse after one, two, or three hours, depending on the desired depth of color. A longer development period creates a deeper result, but leaving a rapid formula on longer than instructed does not necessarily produce a better tan.

Always follow the exact rinse instructions provided by the Merle Norman Elizabethton team. Do not rely on directions from a previous spray tan or a different tanning product.

For your first rinse:

Use warm—not extremely hot—water.
Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating.
Gently move your hands over the skin.
Avoid harsh soap unless instructed otherwise.
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it with a towel.

The water may look tinted as the cosmetic bronzer rinses away. That is normal and does not mean your entire tan is washing off. Norvell explains that the temporary cosmetic bronzer rinses away while the developed sunless color remains. See Norvell’s solution and rinse guidance .

How Long Does a Norvell Spray Tan Last?

A Norvell spray tan typically lasts approximately five to seven days, although results vary based on skin type, preparation, activity, and aftercare. Some Norvell formulas can provide color for up to one week when properly maintained.

Because a spray tan develops in the outermost layers of the skin, it gradually fades as those skin cells naturally shed. Areas exposed to frequent washing, friction, or shaving—such as the hands, face,e and legs — may fade faster.

Consistent aftercare helps the color fade more evenly and keeps your glow looking fresh for longer.

How Can You Maintain an Even, Long-Lasting Glow?

Moisture is one of the most important parts of spray-tan aftercare. Apply a gentle moisturizer daily after completing your initial rinse and development period. Hydrated skin generally holds sunless color more evenly than dry, flaky skin.

To help extend your tan:

Moisturize every day.
Avoid exfoliating until you are ready to remove the remaining color.
Choose gentle body washes instead of harsh or heavily exfoliating cleansers.
Pat your skin dry after showering.
Limit long, extremely hot showers and baths.
Avoid unnecessary friction from tight clothing.
Remember that swimming and prolonged exposure to chlorinated water may accelerate fading.
Use a tan-extending product if recommended by your beauty team.

Norvell specifically recommends daily moisturizing, avoiding exfoliation, and using gentle cleansing or color-extending products to help prolong a sunless tan. Explore Norvell’s official aftercare recommendations .

When Should You Schedule a Spray Tan Before a Special Occasion?

Schedule your spray tan approximately one to two days before a wedding, prom, vacation, photoshoot, reunion,n or other important event. This gives the solution enough time to develop fully and allows you to complete the first rinse before getting dressed or applying your finishing touches.

If you have never had a spray tan before, and the event is especially important—consider scheduling a trial session in advance. A trial gives you an opportunity to see how the color develops on your skin and determine which depth of tan you prefer.

Complete your manicure, pedicure, waxing, and other exfoliating beauty services before the spray tan whenever possible. Your spray tan should generally be one of the final steps in your special-occasion beauty schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions About Norvell Spray Tans

Will My Tan Wash Off During the First Shower?

The temporary cosmetic bronzer will rinse away, but the developed sunless color underneath will remain. Your final shade may continue developing after the initial rinse, so wait until the following day before judging the complete result.

Can I Exercise After My Spray Tan?

Avoid workouts, heavy sweating, swimming, and other activities that expose the skin to moisture during the instructed development period. Sweat can cause streaks or uneven areas before the solution has finished developing.

Can I Shave After a Spray Tan?

Shaving lightly exfoliates the skin and may shorten the life of your tan. Shave before your appointment whenever possible. If you must shave afterward, use a fresh razor, gentle pressure, and a moisturizing product.

How Dark Will My Spray Tan Be?

Your final color depends on the solution, development time, natural skin tone, and preparation. The goal is not always to select the darkest available option. A properly chosen shade should complement your complexion and create a believable, even glow.

Will a Norvell Spray Tan Look Orange?

Norvell offers tanning solutions developed with undertones intended to produce natural-looking color and counter unwanted orange tones. Proper shade selection, skin preparation, application, and aftercare all influence the final result.

Find a Norvell Spray Tan Near You in Elizabethton, TN

A first spray tan should feel exciting—not intimidating. The local beauty team at Merle Norman Elizabethton can help you understand the process, select your desired level of color, and care for your tan afterward.

Visit us for a Norvell spray tan before your next vacation, special occasion, photoshoot, or well-deserved glow-up.

Merle Norman Elizabethton
541 E. Elk Ave.
Elizabethton, TN 37643
merlenormanelizabethton.com

The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Perfect Foundation Match

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:26:23 GMT

Stop Guessing. Start Glowing. Your Perfect Shade Is Waiting.

Finding the perfect foundation sounds simple… until you’re standing in front of hundreds of shades, wondering why one looks too orange, one looks too pale, and another looks great in the store but completely different when you get home.

We’ve all been there.

The truth is, finding your perfect foundation match is about more than choosing a color. Your skin tone, undertones, skin type, coverage preferences, and lifestyle all play a role in creating that flawless, natural-looking finish.

At Merle Norman Elizabethton, we believe makeup should enhance your confidence — not leave you guessing. Here are our best tips for finding the foundation that truly fits YOU.

1. Understand Your Skin Tone & Undertone

Your foundation shade starts with your skin tone, but the secret to a beautiful match is understanding your undertone.

Your undertone is the natural color beneath your skin’s surface. Most people fall into one of three categories:

Cool Undertones — hints of pink, red, or blue
Warm Undertones — hints of yellow, peach, or golden tones
Neutral Undertones — a balanced mix of both

Choosing the wrong undertone is often why foundation can look too orange, too pink, or just “not quite right.” A professional foundation match takes the guesswork out of the process by helping you find a shade that blends naturally with your complexion.

2. Choose The Right Formula For Your Skin

The perfect foundation is not just about color. It’s also about how it works with your skin. Do you want lightweight everyday coverage? A smooth matte finish? Extra hydration? Something that helps soften the appearance of fine lines?

Merle Norman offers a wide variety of foundation options designed for different skin needs, including:

Lasting Foundation SPF 12 : A classic favorite offering beautiful coverage with a long-lasting finish.
Total Finish Compact Makeup : A versatile foundation option that combines foundation and powder in one easy step.
Aqua Balance Makeup : Perfect for those looking for a fresh, comfortable feel with balanced hydration.
Timeless Illuminating Makeup SPF 30 : Designed for a radiant finish while helping your skin look bright, healthy, and refreshed.

The best foundation is the one that works with your skin... Not against it.

3. Stop Testing Foundation On Your Hand

One of the biggest foundation mistakes? Testing shades on your wrist or the back of your hand. �� Your hands usually receive more sun exposure and often don’t match your face and neck. This can lead to buying a shade that looks completely different once you actually wear it. For the most natural match, the foundation should be tested where it matters. Your face and jawline!

4. Think About Your Lifestyle

Your perfect foundation should fit your everyday routine.

Ask yourself:

Do I want a quick 5-minute makeup routine?
Do I prefer natural or full coverage?
Do I need something that lasts all day?
Do I want skincare benefits included?

Someone who wants lightweight everyday makeup may need something completely different than someone preparing for professional photos, weddings, special events, or long workdays. That’s why personalized recommendations matter.

5. Try Before You Buy

The best way to find your perfect foundation?

Experience it. At Merle Norman Elizabethton , you don’t have to scroll through endless online reviews, order three shades, and hope one works. Our beauty specialists can help you discover your perfect foundation match with personalized recommendations based on your skin, preferences, and beauty goals.

Sit down. Try different options. Ask questions. See how it looks and feels before you commit. Because makeup should be fun - not frustrating. ��

Ready To Meet Your Perfect Match?

Visit Merle Norman Elizabethton & GiGi’s Boutique in Downtown Elizabethton and discover why generations of women have trusted Merle Norman for beautiful, confidence-boosting makeup.

From foundation and skincare to boutique fashion, hair, nails, spray tans, and more — we’re your local destination for beauty inside and out.

Come see us, try before you buy, and leave feeling like your most confident self. ✨ Get directions to our storefront at the link below, or shop online today!

5 Skincare Mistakes That Could Be Aging Your Skin Faster

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:42:10 GMT

Small Changes. Better Habits. Healthier, More Confident Skin.

Aging is a beautiful thing, but sometimes our daily skincare habits can make our skin look older, tired, or dull before its time. The good news? A few simple changes can make a major difference.

At Merle Norman Elizabethton, we believe skincare is personal. Your skin, lifestyle, age, and beauty goals all matter when building the perfect skincare routine. Whether you're noticing fine lines, dryness, uneven tone, or simply want your natural glow back, avoiding these common skincare mistakes is a great place to start.

1. Skipping Your Nighttime Skincare Routine

We get it. After a long day, sometimes washing your face feels like one more chore.

But your evening routine is one of the most important steps for maintaining healthy-looking skin. Throughout the day, your skin is exposed to makeup, oils, pollution, and environmental stressors. Going to bed without properly cleansing means those impurities stay with you overnight.

A gentle but effective cleanser helps refresh your skin and prepares it for your nighttime products. Merle Norman’s Brilliant-C Serum is a customer favorite because it helps remove dulling impurities while supporting a brighter, more refreshed appearance.

After cleansing, nighttime is the perfect opportunity to add targeted skincare products, like the Anti-Aging Complex Night Cream, designed to help your skin feel moisturized, smoother, and refreshed while you sleep. Your pillow should be for beauty sleep… not yesterday’s makeup. ��

2. Forgetting That Your Neck & Eyes Need Love Too

One of the biggest skincare mistakes? Stopping your routine at your jawline. The delicate areas around your eyes, neck, and chest are often some of the first places where visible aging appears. Fine lines, dryness, and loss of firmness can become more noticeable because these areas are easy to forget.

Adding targeted products like Merle Norman’s Anti-Aging Complex Night Cream or Ultimate Firming Neck Cream can help give these areas the attention they deserve. Your skincare routine shouldn’t stop where your foundation does. ��

3. Not Protecting Your Skin During the Day

You can have the best skincare routine in the world, but daily protection matters. Sun exposure and environmental factors can contribute to premature signs of aging, including uneven-looking skin tone, dryness, and fine lines. That’s why daytime skincare is about more than moisture - it’s about protection.

Products like Merle Norman’s Anti-Aging Complex Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 30 help combine hydration with everyday sun protection, making it easier to care for your skin before you head out the door. Beautiful skin starts with daily habits.

4. Ignoring Dullness & Uneven Skin Tone

Sometimes we think aging is only about wrinkles, but many people first notice changes through dullness, discoloration, or a loss of that healthy-looking glow. If your skin looks tired even when you’re rested, your routine may need a brightening boost.

Merle Norman’s Brilliant-C Collection - including Brilliant-C Brightening Serum and Brilliant-C Toner - is designed for skin that needs a little extra radiance. It’s a great option for anyone wanting a brighter, more refreshed complexion.

Because glowing skin never goes out of style. ✨

5. Guessing Instead Of Getting Personalized Skincare Advice

This might be the biggest mistake of all. With endless beauty trends online, it’s easy to buy product after product without knowing what your skin actually needs. But skincare is not one-size-fits-all.

Your best friend’s favorite moisturizer may not be your perfect match — and that’s okay! At Merle Norman Elizabethton, our beauty specialists can help you discover products designed for your skin type, concerns, and goals. Stop by the studio, ask questions, and experience the difference in personalized beauty advice. The best skincare routine is the one created for YOU.

Ready For Your Best Skin?

Visit Merle Norman Elizabethton & GiGi’s Boutique in Downtown Elizabethton to explore skincare, makeup, boutique fashion, beauty services, and more. Not sure where to start? Come see us and try before you buy. We’ll help you build a routine you actually love. Your confidence is always in style.