As the pursuit of a healthy and radiant complexion continues to evolve, the beauty industry presents us with various options to achieve that coveted sun-kissed glow. Among these options, spray tanning has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional tanning and tanning beds. In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of spray tanning, its benefits, and how to achieve a flawless, natural-looking tan.
What is Spray Tanning? Spray tanning, also known as sunless tanning or airbrush tanning, involves the application of a tanning solution to the skin, which reacts with the outermost layer to produce a temporary tan. It is very similar to a dye effect. Unlike sunbathing or tanning beds, which expose the skin to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, spray tanning offers a safer alternative to achieve a beautiful tan without risking sun damage or premature aging.
Benefits of Spray Tanning:
UV-Free: Spray tanning eliminates the need for harmful UV exposure, reducing the risk of skin damage, sunburns, and skin cancer.
Faster Results: Unlike natural tanning, which may require hours of being out in the sun, spray tanning sessions are about 20 min, allowing you to achieve a gorgeous tan in a much shorter amount of time.
Customizable and Natural: Spray tanning solutions come in various shades, allowing you to select the depth of color that suits your preferences. Professional spray tan techs can also customize the application to ensure a natural-looking tan that works with your skin tone.
Even Coverage: Spray tanning ensures an even application, minimizing the likelihood of patchiness or streaks that can occur with self-tanning products.
Temporary and Fade Gracefully: Spray tans typically last for about 7-10 days, gradually fading away as your skin naturally exfoliates. This allows you to maintain a consistent tan or return to your natural skin tone as desired.
Preparing for a Spray Tan: To achieve the best results from your spray tanning session, it's important to prepare your skin adequately beforehand:
Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your skin the night before your appointment to remove dead skin cells. This helps the tanning solution adhere more evenly to your skin. Remember, spray tans sit on the top layer of your skin so you want to start with a fresh pallet.
Moisturize After Exfoliating: Use a lotion, no oils, and pay attention to dry areas such as elbows, knees, and ankles.
Avoid Makeup, Oils, Deodorants and Perfumes: On the day of your spray tan, refrain from wearing any makeup, oils, deodorants and perfumes to your appointment. These can interfere with the tanning solution's absorption and may result in an uneven tan.
During the Spray Tanning Session: When you arrive for your spray tanning appointment, you can expect the following steps:
Consultation: We will discuss your desired tan shade and decide on color and which solution to use.
Application: I will apply the tanning solution using a handheld spray gun. You will be guided through a series of quick, easy postures during the spraying process.
Drying Time: After the application, it's important to allow the tanning solution to dry. You will spend a few minutes in front of the fan.
Maintaining and Enhancing Your Spray Tan: To extend the life of your spray tan and keep it looking fresh, consider the following tips:
When showering regularly, use only a mild shower gel and apply with your hands. Do not use scrubs, shower poufs, bar soaps or Dove products as these will strip away your sunless color. Always pat dry your skin after.
After showering, moisturize daily with a basic mineral oil free body lotion. Cocoa butter, shea butter, and pure coconut oil work best. Hydrated healthy skin retains the tan longer as dry skin tends to exfoliate faster, leading to faster fading of the tan.
Did you find this post useful? Save THIS PIN to your Spray Tan board on Pinterest 😉