Overview of Spray Tanning
bronzed glow without harmful UV exposure from the sun or tanning beds. A spray tan, applied by either a professional technician or self-applied products, provides an alternative for those seeking darker skin temporarily through cosmetic bronzing formulas.
But many wonder - how much does it cost to get a spray tan? What about health and safety concerns? Let’s explore those topics and more in this spray tanning guide.
How Spray Tans Work
Spray tanning formulas utilize an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that interacts with dead surface skin cells. This reaction causes browning and color change resembling a tan. As skin naturally regenerates, the color fades over about a week.
Two main application methods include professional technician-applied spray tanning booths and convenient at-home self-tanning products.
Types of Spray Tans
Varieties of spray tanning options include:
- Airbrush spray tanning
- Mist spray tanning booths
- Self-tanning lotions, gels and mousses
- Gradual self-tanning moisturizers
Each provides cosmetic skin darkening from DHA with varying intensity levels, longevity and ease of use.
Cost of Professional Spray Tans
Getting an airbrush or spray booth tan professionally applied by a technician at a salon or spa usually ranges from $25 to $100 per session. Cost varies based on location, specific services and membership packages.
What Impacts the Cost?
Factors affecting professional spray tan pricing include:
- Salon quality and location - Major metro areas charge more
- Booth vs airbrush method - Airbrush tends to cost more
- Technician skill level - Master technicians charge higher rates
- Additional services - Body exfoliation, contour application, etc.
- Package deals - Lower per-session costs when buying multiples
Tipping your spray tan technician 15-25% is customary based on satisfaction with the finished results.
Cost Comparison of Spray Tan Methods
On average across the spray tanning industry, typical pricing includes:
- Standard booth mist spray tan - $35-$50
- Airbrush spray tan - $45-$80
- Mobile spray tanning service - $60-$100+
Advanced reservations, happy hour specials and membership plans can reduce average per-session costs for those getting spray tans routinely.
Cost of Self-Tanning Products
Over-the-counter self-tanning lotions have the benefit of avoiding recurring professional spray tan costs. Home self-tanners typically range from about $15 per bottle up to $75 or more for higher-end brand formulations.
Pricing Factors
Elements influencing self-tanner prices include:
- Formula quality - Higher concentrations of DHA and advanced botanicals
- Brand prestige - Leading designer brands charge premium pricing
- Dispensing method - Lotions, foams, towlettes, drops, etc.
- Size of packaging - Bulk volumes offer lower per oz. pricing
DIY Sunless Tanning Cost Comparison
When buying self-tanning products, typical pricing averages:
- Drugstore lotions - $15-$25
- Department store brands - $25-$45
- Professional quality formulas - $45-$75+
- Gradual self-tanning moisturizers - $15-$30
Learning proper self-tanning application technique takes some practice but saves significantly over ongoing professional spray tanning sessions.
Cost Comparison of All Tanning Methods
When comparing all sunless tanning options to UV tanning methods, keep both monetary and health risks in mind. Average nationwide costs include:
- Tanning salon bed session - $10-$30+
- Tanning booth package deals - $50+ monthly
- Professional spray tan - $35-$100+ each
- Self-tanning products - $15-$75+ each
No matter what you budget for tanning spends, safe sun precautions and skin cancer screenings are priceless.
Cost of Spray Tanning Maintenance
To make spray tans last longer between appointments, investing in quality self-tanning extending products is key. Helpful tan maintenance products include:
- Gentle body exfoliation gloves, scrubs or loofahs - $5-$20
- Gradual self-tanning lotion - $15-$30
- Post-tan moisturizers - $10-$25
- Bronzing makeup for spot coverage - $10-$20
Boosting results between professional spray sessions helps maximize cost per wear. Learn the best spray tan prep and after care tips as well.
Health and Safety Concerns with Spray Tans
Understanding how to minimize health risks when spray tanning comes down to two main factors:
- Safety of DHA
- Inhalation concerns
Let’s explore each issue surrounding spray tan safety.
Is DHA Safe?
The FDA approves using DHA as an external self-tanning ingredient. Dermatology experts overwhelmingly consider DHA safe for topical use when following best practices.
However, some report mild side effects like:
- Skin irritation
- Allergic rash
- Orange, streaky discoloration
Doing an allergy test and patch test before extensive spray tanning limits risks.
Inhalation Worries
Some express concern with inhaling DHA through the nose or mouth during facial spray tanning or in misting booths. But many reputable salons now offer nose filters and adequate ventilation to minimize inhalation.
Using barrier eye protection and lip balm also reduces risks of mucous membrane absorption. Carefully reviewing your technician’s safety protocol provides peace of mind.
How to Get Safe Spray Tans
Here are tips for safely spray tanning:
- Select an experienced professional technician thoroughly trained on equipment and application techniques.
- Ask about their sanitization and ventilation practices to prevent infection risk.
- Use provided nose filters, protective eyewear and lip balms.
- Discuss ingredients if you have fragrance allergies or chemical sensitivity.
- Allow a patch test session first if worried about potential reaction.
- Ask technicians to avoid direct spray contact with sensitive body areas.
Carefully researching spray tanning salon reviews provides guidance in choosing reputable businesses for an excellent experience.
Safe Use of Self-Tanning Products
Using self-tanners properly further reduces health concerns like:
- Opting for natural, non-toxic products with fewer chemicals
- Doing a patch test before full-body application
- Avoiding contact with eyes, lips and sensitive body sites
- Washing hands thoroughly after use
- Allowing adequate drying time before dressing
FAQs
How much does it cost to get a spray tan professionally?
Professional spray tanning costs typically range from about $35 for a basic booth mist application up to $100+ for an airbrush session with a senior level technician. Package deals can reduce average pricing when you purchase multiple sessions upfront.
What is the best self-tanner brand to buy?
Top self-tanning lotion brands ranked highly for quality ingredients, easy application and natural-looking color development include St. Tropez, Tan Luxe, L’Oréal Sublime Bronze, MineTan, Bondi Sands, James Read and Isle of Paradise.
How long does a spray tan last?
With proper prep and maintenance, a professional spray tan can last 5-10 days generally. Using daily gradual self-tanning lotion extends results. Fading occurs as skin naturally exfoliates, so gentle regular exfoliation is key to longevity.
Is spray tanning safe during pregnancy?
Medical guidelines advise pregnant women to avoid spray tanning. Chemical absorption concerns exist for the developing baby. However, natural self-tanning lotions containing only FDA-approved ingredients are considered safer alternatives when used sparingly.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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