A pleated spray tan mask and method of donning is donned and attached around the face, so as to protect a user from inhaling undesired airborne particles or vapor while being spray tanned with tanning composition, and also to prevent tanning composition from coating the face. The mask comprises three panels that cover a portion of the face and perform independent functions for protecting against sprayed tanning compositions. The mask provides a forehead panel and a lower face panel that are pleated to increase in size for larger heads. Pleats allow the mask to be one-size-fits-all. Another unique feature of the forehead and lower face panels is that flaps form at the edges of the individual panels. Flaps fold inwardly and enhance airflow behind the panels. Further, a mid-face panel disposed between the forehead and lower face panels is at least partially transparent to enable visibility while being spray tanned.
