If you’re like most people, the idea of lying around in the nude while someone sprays you with a tanning solution probably doesn’t appeal to you. But spray tanning is a serious business, and if done right, it can give you an incredibly realistic bronzed look without all the harmful effects of sunbathing or tanning beds. So if you’re thinking about giving spray tanning a try, read on for our beginner’s guide!
How Do I Prepare For A Spray Tanning Appointment?
If you are new to spray tanning, it is essential that you fully prepare for your initial appointment.
A common mistake made by first-time spray tanners is underestimating the importance of proper preparation for their date with a spray tanning booth or spray tan technician. You’ve done it before, right? You see an advertisement on television for a great introductory price on a spray tan and decide to give it a try, but never even consider how skin prep can affect the outcome of your visit.
Most spray tanning experts recommend that the customer shave, exfoliate and moisturize prior to their appointment because shaving can cause nicks or uneven stubble that could affect how evenly the spray tan is applied onto your skin, leaving your complexion blotchy in appearance, which will most certainly not look good in photos! Exfoliating helps remove dead surface cells so the tanning solution penetrates better resulting in a darker, darker color. Moisturizing beforehand will help you achieve a smoother, more even application when getting sprayed by your technician.
How Does It Work?
Spray Tanning machines are unique in that they use two different types of spray nozzles to apply various solutions to one’s body, offering a significant range of customization for the user.
Spray tanning machines work by sending out an ultra-fine mist from a mixture of water and DHA onto the skin’s surface which is designed to produce a very natural-looking bronzed appearance. This ‘mist’ is created from two different types of nozzles – a spray nozzle that creates a linear spray pattern providing full-body coverage and an airbrush nozzle that will create more precise areas requiring focused attention such as knees, ankles, and elbows.
To ensure you achieve your perfect color, there are also two levels of intensity on each machine – light, and dark which allow you to customize your tan accordingly. Usually, lighter-skinned customers go for lighter tones whereas darker-skinned customers go for slightly darker tones to ensure they don’t end up too pale.
Spray Tanning machines are typically made with a number of features that offer spray tanners great value for money including time meters, adjustable spray nozzles, light intensity settings, and more. Generally speaking, you will discover that the higher the price of the machine and more expensive models will come equipped with “smart” technologies such as on-board computers and digital touch screens which allow you to control all aspects of spray tanning easily and efficiently.
What Is DHA?
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is a naturally occurring organic compound found in plants such as sugar cane and sugar beets. It is this chemical that produces the bronzed appearance as it interacts with dead skin cells as you tan. This compound is completely safe and approved for cosmetic use.
How Long Will My Tan Last?
A spray tan will last between 5-10 days, depending on your skin type and which tanning solution you use. You’ll need to shower daily in order to get the most out of your new glow, however keeping one particular day a week for an intensive exfoliation will ensure that you keep your color longer.
Don’t forget to apply moisturizer consistently after every time you are in the sun or have washed your hands/face, especially if you are wearing gloves at any point during the day. This tip is also helpful if you are applying self-tanner frequently as it helps prolong its effects too!
What Is The Best Time To Get A Spray Tan?
The best time to get a spray tan is aimed towards those with a specific event to attend, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few tips and tricks to getting ready for an upcoming event.
If you have been working out or have an existing tan from the sun, it is recommended you wait at least 48 hours before your spray tan appointment. This will help ensure that any oil or sweat from either of those activities does not disrupt the application of the solution on your skin.
How Do I Take Care Of My Spray Tan?
Step 1: Make sure you are exfoliated before your spray tan. If not, your self-tanner will bead up on dry skin and cause blotches in the finished look. A gentle body scrub or buffing glove is a good way to remove dead skin cells.
Step 2: Don’t wear tight clothing that might rub off the color. It’s best to put on loose-fitting cotton garments right after your treatment. Cotton sheets are also recommended over silk or satin sheets, which can pull the color out of your tan in the wash.
Step 3: Hydrate! After you’ve been sprayed with oil, lotion, or mousse it’s important to drink lots of water so the product doesn’t settle into crevices on your elbows.
Step 4: If you are using a spray tan accelerator, make sure to wear it for about 8 hours before showering in order to get the maximum color payoff.
Step 5: Shower! At least 8 hours after getting sprayed is when you should hop into the shower and start washing off that excess dye. Don’t worry about scrubbing hard, just rinse everything clean in warm water. Don’t use hot water because it will set the color too quickly and might cause unevenness or streaking.
Step 6: Exfoliate! Just like before your treatment, exfoliating any remaining dry skin cells with a bit of gentle body scrub or even your buffing glove can help avoid patchy color.
Step 7: Reapply moisturizer! A great way to keep that tan fresh is by applying a small amount of lotion or oil to your skin before going to bed for some extra hydration. If you have some fading, try using a spray meant for bringing back the life in your fake bake.
Step 8: Repeat daily… No need to wait a week if you feel like you want another one! But make sure not to scrub or exfoliate at all when it’s time for your next session. Just add more moisturizer and enjoy.
Spray tans are a great way to get that bronzed look without the sun damage. Call us today and we’ll help you prepare for your appointment with our spray tanning tips!
Are You Looking for a Spray Tan You Can Trust?
Spray tanning at Simply Skin Esthetics in downtown Walnut Creek, California is an amazing experience. Our clients keep coming back time after time. Why? Because we care and more importantly we provide spray tans that are safe and long-lasting. Airbrush tanning is a new and safe way of achieving a golden look without the risks of skin cancer, often associated with overexposure from the sun or from a tanning bed. Using an airbrush, a fine mist of bronzer is applied to the body. This tan lasts approximately 7 to 10 days depending on your lifestyle and skin type. Using moisturizer on your skin daily helps keep your tan looking great.That’s why our service is far superior to any you will find in the San Francisco East Bay Area. We care, and it shows in our repeat clientele. We feature HydraFacial, Ultrasound Facial, Signature Facial, Mens Facial, Express Facial, Treatments/Peels, Teen Facial and Back Facials! Interested in learning more or scheduling your first session? Contact us now to make your appointment!