Spray tans have been around forever via airbrush machines, manual application and walk in computerized equipment. Spray tans have gotten a bad rep over the years for making people look orange or giving off an odor that’s not that beachy BUT jump to the last few years of 2017-2020 and boy has this changed!

Airbrush spray tan products in general are the game changers as owners of these small companies have been able to get the formulations to look more natural and rich in color. It comes down to the application and paying attention to detail so you receive a flawless overall tan.

The active ingredient in all of these products is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a color additive often derived from plant sources that’s approved by the FDA for tanning purposes. DHA binds to proteins in the top layer of skin, causing it to darken or stain. Thicker, protein-rich areas of your skin will stain more, so for more even results, you should exfoliate the skin of the elbows, knees, and ankles beforehand, using a washcloth, sponge, or loofah, for example. Because the coloring process takes place only in the surface layers of the skin, your “tan” lasts only as long as those layers stay on your body—five to seven days. After they slough off, you’ll need a reapplication.

Please know that a spray tan or any self tanning product is not a substitute for SPF! Just because you “look” tan doesn’t mean you won’t burn if you lay in the sun or use tanning bed in conjunction with a self tanning solution without the appropriate sunscreen.

Exfoliating 2-3 days before a spray tan is key! To remove all the dry skin, moisturize with a water based lotion leading up to the spray service, and after for 7 days to ensure your tan stays on longer. If you allow your skin to get too dry and dehydrated the skin will start to get a “peeling” look. If you take good care of your skin the tan will fade, which looks more natural.

Why spray tans are so awesome any time of the year.

  1. It’s nice to have a healthy glow.
  2. It feels good to be bronzed and lifts your spirits.
  3. It’s a great replacement for foundations, face powders or bronzers.
  4. Before you head on a sunny vacation, getting a spray tan help you ease into getting a “sun tan” as the spray wears off it’s not such a big color transition difference and more of a gradual one.
  5. You can chose a classic or ultra dark color to control how dark you want to be.
  6. It’s safe and lasts 7-10 days if you moisturize with a water based moisturizer.
  7. Wears off gradually and not spotty.

These are the tips and tricks to getting that glow! And a great way to feel tan without the dangers of sun damage. Come in and see me for an Infinity Sun Natural or Ultra Dark tan or if you have a special occasion and you’re already darker skinned or have a tan I offer a Shimmer spray to add sparkle to your day or night!