Spray tanning is an excellent alternative to sunbathing and tanning beds, offering a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV radiation. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential do's and don'ts of spray tanning to ensure you achieve the perfect tan every time.
Mastering the Art of Spray Tanning: The Ultimate Do's and Don'ts Guide
Preparation is Key
Waxing and Shaving Prior to Your Spray Tan
- Do wax or shave at least 24-48 hours before your spray tan appointment. This allows time for your pores to close, ensuring an even tan.
- Don't wax or shave immediately before your spray tan, as this can cause the solution to settle into your pores and create a blotchy appearance.
Exfoliating Your Skin
- Do exfoliate your skin 24 hours before your spray tan, focusing on dry areas such as elbows, knees, and ankles.
- Don't use oil-based exfoliants, as they can create a barrier on your skin and prevent the tan from developing evenly.
Moisturizing Before Your Appointment
- Do moisturize your skin the day before your spray tan appointment, ensuring your skin is well-hydrated and ready for the tanning solution.
- Don't apply moisturizer on the day of your appointment, as it can interfere with the spray tan's absorption.
During the Spray Tan Session
What to Wear
- Do wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment to avoid rubbing off the tanning solution and staining your clothes.
- Don't wear tight clothing or undergarments that can create lines or uneven patches in your tan.
Barrier Creams and Nail Protection
- Do apply a barrier cream to your nails, cuticles, and palms to prevent staining.
- Don't forget to remove any jewelry before your spray tan session.
Breathing and Positioning
- Do hold your breath and close your eyes when the spray tan technician is applying the solution to your face.
- Don't be afraid to ask your technician for guidance on how to position your body for the best results.
Post-Tanning Care
Drying Time and Initial Rinse
- Do allow your spray tan to dry completely before getting dressed, which typically takes 10-15 minutes.
- Don't shower, swim, or exercise for at least 8-12 hours after your spray tan appointment to allow the color to develop fully.
Moisturizing After Your Spray Tan
- Do keep your skin hydrated by applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer daily.
- Don't use oil-based moisturizers or products containing alcohol, as they can strip the tan and cause it to fade prematurely.
Maintaining Your Spray Tan
Prolonging Your Tan
- Do use a tan extender product to help maintain your tan's longevity and vibrancy.
- Don't exfoliate your skin aggressively, as this can cause your tan to fade unevenly.
Sun Protection
- Do apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when outdoors, as your spray tan does not provide protection from the sun's harmful UV rays.
- Don't rely on your spray tan as a substitute for sun protection, as it does not contain any SPF properties.
Swimming and Bathing
- Do limit your time in chlorinated pools and hot tubs, as chlorine can cause your tan to fade more quickly.
- Don't take long, hot baths or showers, as this can also contribute to the fading of your spray tan.
Proper Clothing Choices
- Do wear loose-fitting clothes and avoid tight garments that can rub against your skin and cause your tan to wear off unevenly.
- Don't wear light-colored clothing that can easily stain from the tanning solution during the first 24-48 hours after your appointment.
By following these essential do's and don'ts of spray tanning, you can ensure a flawless, natural-looking tan that lasts. With proper preparation, technique, and maintenance, you'll enjoy the beautiful glow of a sunless tan without the risks associated with UV exposure.
Are Spray Tans Safe? Debunking Common Myths
THE MYTH OF SHAVING, PORES AND SPRAY TANNING: Expert Tips for Flawless Skin Prep and Maintenance
Get the inside scoop on whether it's okay to shave the same day as a spray tan. Learn about the factors to consider and tips for a flawless, long-lasting spray tan.
Mobile Spray Tanning: A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Your Appointment
The Secrets to a Flawless Spray Tan
Kissed by the Caribbean Mobile Spray Tanning always recommends limiting the number of times you shave post-spray tan but there comes a time when you absolutely have to, so I have put together a short tip list to help you avoid removing your spray tan.
The tanning trend has become just as popular among men as it is among women. What has fueled this craze further is the images of bronzed, tanned men in billboards, movies, and TV shows.
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.
Sunburn! Oh No, Will This Affect My Spray Tan?
Spray tanning is an effective way to maintain a healthy glow year-round. However, due to the common misconceptions many people have about spray tanning it gets a bad rap. Frequently I get comments from clients that share common concerns such as, “spray tanning will make me look fake,” “the tan won’t last,” “the tanning solution will irritate my skin,” or “I don’t want to look orange.” All these concerns are false, as they are just myths. It would be a mistake to let these common misconceptions prevent you from seeking out spray tanning as an effective treatment for a natural-looking glow. Follow along as I expose the five most common myths about spray tanning.
