What is a Spray Tan?

A spray tan is a sunless tanning method where a fine mist containing a chemical preparation is sprayed onto the body. This preparation darkens the skin, simulating a natural tan.

How Does It Work?

The key ingredient in most spray tanning solutions is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA).DHA is a colorless sugar compound that reacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of your skin (the stratum corneum).This reaction, known as the Maillard reaction (similar to how food browns when cooked), causes the skin cells to darken, producing a brown color. The color develops gradually over several hours, typically reaching its peak within 24 hours.Since it only affects the outermost layer of skin, the tan fades as your skin naturally sheds its dead cells, usually lasting 5-7 days.

Benefits of Spray Tanning:

• No UV Exposure: This is the most significant benefit, as it allows you to achieve a tan without the risks of sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer associated with UV rays.
• Instant Results: While the full color develops over hours, many solutions contain cosmetic bronzers that provide an immediate glow, so you look tanned right after the session.
• Customizable Shades: Spray tan solutions come in various shades and concentrations of DHA, allowing you to choose a tan that suits your natural skin tone and desired depth of color. This helps achieve a natural-looking result.
• Even Application: Professional spray tans, especially those applied by a technician, can provide a streak-free and even tan over your entire body, minimizing patchiness.
• Time-Efficient: Getting a full-body spray tan typically takes only 10-15 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option.
• Minimizes Imperfections: A tan can help to even out skin tone and subtly camouflage minor blemishes, spider veins, or other skin imperfections.
• Hydration Boost: Many spray tan solutions contain moisturizing ingredients that can nourish your skin.
• Confidence Boost: A healthy, tanned look can make you feel more confident and enhance your appearance

The Spray Tan Process:
Preparation (Crucial for a good tan!):

• Exfoliate: 8-24 hours before your appointment, exfoliate your entire body to remove dead skin cells. This creates an even canvas for the solution and helps the tan last longer. Use an oil-free exfoliator.
• Shower and Shave/Wax: Shower, shave, or wax at least 4 hours before your appointment. This allows your pores to close and prevents discoloration.
• No Products: Arrive with clean, dry skin. Avoid applying lotions, moisturizers, deodorants, antiperspirants, oils, or makeup before your session, as these can create a barrier and lead to an uneven tan.
• Remove Jewelry: Take off all jewelry.
• Clothing: Bring loose-fitting, dark clothing to wear after your tan to prevent rubbing off the solution and staining light-colored fabrics. Flip-flops are also recommended.

During the Session:

• Undress: You can undress to your comfort level (fully naked, in disposable underwear, or your own dark underwear/swimsuit). Keep in mind that whatever you wear will create tan lines.
• Consultation: If you’re getting a professional spray tan, the technician will likely discuss your desired shade and skin tone to select the appropriate solution.
• Application: You’ll step into a booth or stand while a technician uses an airbrush gun to mist the solution onto your body. They will guide you through different poses to ensure even coverage. The mist might feel cool.
• Drying: After application, you’ll typically use a warm air blower to help dry the solution before getting dressed.
• Spray Tan Aftercare:
  Wear Loose Clothing: Continue wearing loose, dark clothing for the duration of the tan’s development time.
• Avoid Water and Sweat: Do not shower, swim, or engage in activities that cause excessive sweating for at least 6-8 hours (or as advised by the technician) to allow the DHA to fully develop.
• Moisturize Regularly: Once you’ve had your first post-tan shower, moisturize your skin daily. Hydrated skin helps to prolong the life of your tan and ensures it fades evenly.
• Pat Dry: After showering, gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing to avoid removing the tan prematurely.
• Avoid Exfoliation: Refrain from exfoliating until you are ready for the tan to completely fade or before your next spray tan.
• No UV Protection: Remember that a spray tan does not provide sun protection. Always apply SPF when exposed to the sun.