With prom, spring time, graduation, and boat days approaching, we often look into the mirror as to what we can touch up to make ourselves look our best. Its no secret that we all look our best when we are sunkissed. However, if you are anything like me, this takes months of sitting outside, at the right time of the day, and sitting out for hours on end. Not to mention, harmful UV rays expose your skin to premature aging, skin damage, and the time commitment alone is too much for someone like me. There's no secret that many use spray tans as a way to instantly boost this confidence and achieve the sunkissed look without using UV rays. Whether you are 16 going to your first prom, 32 heading to the beach for the weekend, or simply just wondering how to prepare for a spray tan, here are some curated tips on before and after you receive your spray tan!
Preparing for your Spray Tan:
There are two different types of spray tans, one is being hand sprayed by a technician and the other is being sprayed in a booth, by a machine. Here at Hair Etc. Salon and Spa, we offer the hand spray technique. This method is the best one you can choose, as it allows for the most even application. Spray Tan booths often create lines on your hands and sometimes do not reach all areas of your body adequately. 24 hours before my spray tan appointment I do a full body shower and do the following:
1. Exfoliate I always exfoliate first before I shave because it wont burn my skin. By exfoliating, this removes dead skin cells which allows for the tan to go on smoother. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt and focus on areas prone to dryness, like elbows, knees, and ankles!
2. Shave! I then proceed to shave my legs and any other parts of my body that I feel fit to do so! It is really important not to shave after your spray because it will strip it off and not last as long.
3. Moisturize Dry Areas Hydrated skin holds onto color better, so moisturize any dry areas such as elbows, knees, and ankles. However, avoid applying moisturizer to your entire body immediately before your spray tan appointment, as it can create a barrier and inhibit the tan's absorption.
Heading to your Spray Tan Appointment
The day before your spray tan you have prepared with the necessary steps and now are reasy to head on in for your appointment! Make sure to do the following:
4. Don't put on perfume or deodorant On the day of your appointment, refrain from using perfumes, deodorants, or any skincare products that could create a barrier on your skin. These can interfere with the spray tan solution and affect the outcome.
5. Wear Loose, Dark Clothing Choose loose-fitting, dark-colored clothing to wear to your spray tan appointment. Tight clothing can rub against the tan, causing streaks, while dark colors prevent any potential staining from the solution.
What to Expect at your Appointment!
Now that you are at your appointment, your technician will spray you! They will typically give you a clear hair net/shower cap to protect your hair color. Then they will begin the spray process, in which they 3 will tell you different spray tan positions to stand in.
Aftercare for Your Spray Tan:
The aftercare of your spray tan is vital in determining the time it will last and prolonging your spray tan! Typically spray tans last three to seven days.
1. Wait Before Showering: After your spray tan session, wait at least 6-8 hours before showering or engaging in any activities that could cause sweating. This allows the tan to develop fully and ensures lasting results. Typically, I go to sleep and just wash my sheets in the morning. Otherwise if I am out during the day I avoid running around too much and stay put. I also recommend showering in lukewarm water and taking a quick shower! Just rinse off dont scrub/shave/use washcloths.
2. Pat Dry: When you shower after you have developed, use lukewarm water and gentle, sulfate-free products. Pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing, as rubbing can cause the tan to fade unevenly.
3. Moisturize Daily: Immediately after your shower you will want to get your moisturizing lotion on your skin asap! This helps prolong the life of your spray tan and keeps your skin looking radiant. When you do not put on hydrating lotion, your skin may crack or become dry, leading to cracks in your spray tan.