Spray Tans: Why they are saving people’s skin
Many people have the idea that tan skin is more beautiful. While this is an opinion, a lot of people have that particular one. Unfortunately, tanning is extremely bad for your health & wellness. It can cause premature aging, hyperpigmentation, dehydration, and even cancer. I don’t know about you, but I would rather not do something that would possibly give me cancer and make me look 20 years older than I am. The positive side to all this is that you can achieve tan skin without having to endure the harsh side effects from the sun or tanning beds… a spray tan!
Spray tanning has become one of the most popular beauty services. Men and women enjoy the appearance they have when their skin has this bronze, sun-kissed glow, and this is achieved very easily by a spray tan. Whether you are wanting the glow for every day, or a special occasion, a spray tan is one of the most popular beauty accessories!
What is a spray tan?
A spray tan is exactly what it sounds like, a spray on tan. The sunless form of tanning uses a fine mist to spray on Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that mixes with your skin to cause the “tan” or “bronze”. This is a temporary tan that lasts anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Keep in mind, this tan has zero protection against the sun, and you should continue to use an SPF. Most spray tanning is done by an individual who has an airbrush gun to mist the spray onto the body. There are several different shade depths and undertones to fit each person’s individual desires. There are spray tanning booths that are machine operated, but that does not give you as many options or ensure an even application. Over a period of 6-8 hours after the application is when the tan truly develops. It is recommended to avoid water during the 6-8 hours and waiting 24 hours before bathing with soap so the tan develops and lasts as long as possible.
How do I take care of my spray tan after I get it done?
When you get home after your spray tan, don’t do anything that might cause you to sweat or get wet in any way. Some spray tans have an express developing time, but most require you to wait 6-8 hours. Refrain from some household duties like doing the dishes or laundry because of the risk of getting wet or getting soap on you. Streaking is a thing, and we want to avoid that! After the developing period is over, take a shower and apply a thin layer of a lightweight body lotion. Thicker more emollient based lotions can decrease the longevity of the tan. Using manual exfoliants may lift the spray tan, so be cautious of your body washes to prevent blotchiness.
Tips & Tricks:
- Show up to your appointment with NO makeup on
- Take a shower and exfoliate your body beforehand to ensure an even application
- Shave 10-12 hours before, not directly before. If you shave immediately before, your follicles will be more sensitive and you may get red or experience discomfort.
- Bring with an undergarment if wanted, but keep in mind, if you have clothing on, that area will not be tanned. If you want to wear an undergarment, the smaller the better unless you want big tan lines.
- If you decide to use the disposable hair net offered, make sure to put it 1 inch back from your hairline to prevent a tan line.
- Wear loose fitting clothing that isn’t made of silk, nylon or elastic (these are the only materials that will stain in the case that some residue gets on them afterward).
- Communicate with your service provider how deep of a tan you would like to achieve.
- If you are able to not shower for longer than 6-8 hours after, wait. It doesn’t hurt to keep it on longer.
- Always wear SPF. Just because your body appears darker, doesn’t mean your body produced more melanin (pigmentation). Your skin is still susceptible to the dangers of UV rays.
- Use a lightweight lotion afterward, nothing too thick. Thick creams or body butter will work away at your tan and make them fade much quicker.
- Apply a thicker moisturizer on your elbows, wrists, hands, and feet to act as a barrier cream to prevent splotches and patches.
- Don’t work out or go swimming after your spray tan. It will get streaky and not look good. Also, chlorine will remove your spray tan almost immediately.
- Don’t wear any jewelry including earrings. Anything, even studs, will get in the way.
- Applying deodorant before your spray tan can react with the sunless solution. If at all possible, skip deodorant or be sure to remove it prior to spray tanning.
- After showering for the first time, pat yourself dry, don’t rub.
