Sellers of spray tanning equipment make the marketing claim that a spray tan can be done in two minutes with an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray tan system, the dominant choice in spray tan equipment today. That’s a bit rushed. A quality result is more important than to apply the spray tan as quickly as possible. The actual application can be done in 5 minutes. Some technicians will do two spray passes versus one, which will take a little longer. An allowance for drying time, 5 to 10 minutes, needs to be added as well. Drying time can be shortened by using direct air from the air hose or with a hair dryer.
HVLP History and Current Application
HVLP technology was first developed for auto painting and has extended its relevant application to woodworking and artistry. In the auto world, the traditional spray gun operated close to 50 psi, a pressure that creates a large amount of overspray along with obvious health and environmental concerns. HVLP technology created a system that used a high volume of air to atomize paint at a very low pressure, less than 10 psi, resulting in significantly less overspray, lower material usage and a safer workplace.
In spray tanning, an airbrush tan uses a significantly lower 15 psi and an HVLP spray tan uses no more than 10 psi. The sunless spray tanning solution is safe, being approved for external application to the skin. One of the appealing traits of HVLP technology for spray tanning is the wider spray pattern of the spray gun. A full size HVLP gun may have as much as an 8-inch spray pattern. A touch up HVLP gun may have a spray pattern near 4 inches. The typical airbrush has no more than a 2-inch pattern. Wider patterns make for quicker application.
Let's Talk About Spray Tan Development?
If you’re new to spray tanning, you’re probably coming across the concept of spray tan development. But what does spray tan development actually mean? It’s actually quite simple.
Spray tan development is a set number of hours for a spray tan to develop on your body before showering. For example, if a solution recommends 8-12 hours, then it is best to shower any time after 8 hours of the time you received your spray tan. Think of it as a piece of art. You painted a beautiful portrait and it needs time to dry in order for the colors and paint to set. Now in regards to spray tanning, you get sprayed and while the tan is “developing” into a beautiful bronze color, the actual spray needs time to set on your skin.
What Not to Do While Your Spray Tan Is Developing
Even though preparation for a spray tan is extremely important, what not to do during the spray tan development phase can ultimately make or break your spray tan. Here’s a list of reminders on what not to do:
• Don’t let your seatbelt rub across your chest
• Don’t cross your legs
• Limit activity that may cause your body to rub against an object or sweat such as working out
• Washing your hands too long (be mindful)
• Sitting down for too long and having your stomach create lines
• Washing off too early
This might sound like a lot especially if you’re a first-time tanner, but these are the right precautionary steps to take. As long as you’re aware and mindful that the spray tan development phase is important, your tan will more than likely turn out just fine.
