Spray Tan Tips

Spray tanning has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV radiation. However, getting the perfect spray tan can be a challenge if you're not familiar with the process. To help you achieve a flawless tan, we've put together some essential spray tan tips.

1. Exfoliate Your Skin Beforehand

The first step to getting a flawless spray tan is to exfoliate your skin before your appointment. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and ensures that the tan goes on smoothly. Use a body scrub or exfoliating mitt to scrub your skin gently in circular motions, focusing on areas like your elbows, knees, and ankles. These areas tend to be drier and can absorb more tanning solution, which can cause the tan to appear patchy.

2. Moisturize Dry Areas

After you've exfoliated, make sure to moisturize any dry areas of your skin. Apply a small amount of moisturizer to your knees, elbows, and ankles to create a barrier and prevent the tanning solution from being absorbed too much, which can result in a darker, uneven color.

3. Consider Your Skin Type

Before getting a spray tan, it's essential to consider your skin type. If you have dry skin, you may want to moisturize more than someone with oily skin. People with fair skin should opt for a lighter tan, while those with darker skin tones can go for a deeper shade. It's also a good idea to talk to your spray tan technician about your skin type and what tanning solution is best for you.

4. Choose the Right Clothing

The clothing you wear to your spray tan appointment can affect the outcome of your tan. Opt for loose-fitting, dark clothing to avoid any rubbing or smudging that can cause the tan to appear patchy. Avoid wearing tight clothing, as this can rub off the tan and cause it to look uneven. If you're getting a spray tan for a special occasion, it's also a good idea to wear a strapless bra or go without one to avoid tan lines.

5. Use Barrier Cream

If you have areas of your skin that you don't want to tan, like your palms, nails, and soles of your feet, use a barrier cream to create a barrier. Apply a small amount of cream to these areas before your appointment to prevent the tanning solution from staining your skin. You can also use petroleum jelly or lip balm in a pinch.

6. Keep Your Skin Dry

Before and after your spray tan, it's important to keep your skin dry. Water and sweat can cause the tanning solution to streak and appear uneven. Avoid showering, swimming, and working out for at least six hours after your spray tan. If you need to wash your hands, use a wet wipe instead of water. Additionally, avoid touching your skin as much as possible to prevent the tan from rubbing off.

7. Don't Overdo It

When it comes to spray tans, less is more. Start with a light coat and build up the color gradually if you want a deeper tan. Overdoing it can result in an unnatural-looking tan that's difficult to remove. If you're not sure how much tanning solution to use, ask your spray tan technician for advice.

8. Wait Before Showering

After your spray tan, wait at least six to eight hours before showering. This will give the tanning solution enough time to develop and will result in a more even color. When you do shower, use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash, and pat your skin dry with a towel

9. Maintain Your Tan

Once you've achieved your perfect spray tan, you'll want to maintain it for as long as possible. To do this, moisturize your skin daily with a tan-extending lotion. Avoid using oil-based lotions or products that contain alpha hydroxy acids or exfoliating agents, as these can cause your tan to fade faster. It's also important to avoid hot baths, as the hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause your tan to fade more quickly.

10. Know When to Remove Your Tan

Eventually, your spray tan will start to fade, and you'll need to remove it. To do this, soak in a warm bath for 20-30 minutes and then use a loofah or exfoliating mitt to gently scrub your skin. You can also use a tanning remover or self-tanner remover to help remove any remaining color. Make sure to moisturize your skin afterward to prevent dryness.