The Pros and Cons of Naked Spray Tanning: Is Baring It All Worth It?

The Pros and Cons of Naked Spray Tanning

With summer just around the corner, many people are looking for ways to get that sun-kissed glow without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. This is where spray tanning comes in handy. Spray tans provide a temporary bronzed look without posing the same risks as tanning beds or laying out in the sun all day. However, traditional spray tanning does require you to wear a swimsuit or undergarments during the process. Enter: naked spray tanning. But is forgoing swimwear for your spray tan session actually safe? Here's what you need to know about the pros and cons of naked spray tanning.

What is Naked Spray Tanning?

Naked spray tanning, also sometimes called nude spray tanning, is exactly what it sounds like. You strip down completely nude for the spray tan appointment, rather than wear any clothing to cover private areas. Some people prefer naked spray tanning because it allows the tanning technician to spray solution all over the body for a more even, seamless tan. It also ensures no unsightly tan lines. However, going au naturel for your spray tan isn't for everyone. There are a few things to consider first.

The Pros of Naked Spray Tanning

There are several potential benefits that come with spray tanning in the nude:

• No tan lines - Tan lines are a common problem with regular spray tanning. But naked spray tanning allows the technician to spray the solution evenly all over the body, preventing any weird lines.
• More even coverage - Spray tanning uncovered skin means the technician can target problem areas to ensure proper blending and coverage.
• Longer lasting results - With no restrictions from a swimsuit or underwear, the tan is able to fully set and absorb into the skin for longer lasting color.
• Potentially cheaper - Some spray tan salons charge less for naked spray tans since they use less solution.
• Feels less messy - No need to worry about cleaning bronzer off a swimsuit afterwards.

The Cons of Naked Spray Tanning

However, naked spray tanning does come with some downsides to consider as well:

• You're completely exposed - For some, being totally nude for the spray tan process is uncomfortable or embarrassing.
• Genital exposure - Private areas are unavoidably exposed, which some clients may dislike.
• Potential inhalation issues - Lying nude under the spray means your mouth and nose may be more exposed to the spray, raising inhalation concerns.
• Bronzer stains - While you won't stain a swimsuit, you do risk staining the spray tan bed and potentially your own skin if you don't shower immediately.
• Discomfort lying nude - Laying naked on a spray bed feels different than wearing a swimsuit and can make some clients feel awkward and cold.

Is Naked Spray Tanning Safe?

The big question many people have about naked spray tanning is whether or not it's safe. And the answer is a qualified yes. Reputable spray tan salons take measures to ensure naked spray tans are no riskier than a standard bikini spray tan session. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Go to a professional - Only visit licensed salons with trained spray techs to ensure proper sanitation and technique.
• Use genital covers - Many salons provide paper thong or undergarment covers to drape over intimate areas during a nude session.
• Avoid inhalation - Wear nose filters and keep eyes and mouth closed during the session.
• Clean the room after - Salons should fully sanitize the spray room and equipment between clients.
• Rinse off after - Take a shower immediately after to remove excess bronzer and prevent staining.
• Moisturize - Keep skin hydrated before and after to prevent dryness from the spray solution.

What to Expect With a Naked Spray Tan

Wondering what the process is actually like? Here's a quick rundown of what happens during a typical naked spray tanning session:

1. Arrive at your appointment wearing loose, dark clothing you don't mind getting stained just in case.
2. You'll be escorted to a private spray room where you'll fully disrobe.
3. The technician may provide paper disposable undergarments to drape over intimate areas for modesty.
4. You'll stand in position while the technician sprays solution carefully all over your nude body from around 6-8 inches away.
5. Extra attention will be paid to tricky areas like knees, elbows and ankles to ensure even coverage.
6. The technician may have you turn or raise arms to fully coat the body.
7. Once sprayed, the bronzer will start drying immediately. You'll stand and dry for a few minutes.
8. The appointment takes 10-15 minutes total. You can then get dressed and go rinse off at home.

Is Naked Spray Tanning Right for You?

While naked spray tanning does provide some benefits, it also involves full body exposure that some clients may not feel comfortable with. Here are some tips on deciding if a nude session is right for you:

• Consider your comfort level - Assess your personal boundaries to see if you'd feel embarrassed or uneasy being totally nude.
• Go to a reputable salon - Make sure they use high quality equipment, solutions and have licensed technicians.
• Ask about genital coverings - See if they offer disposable thongs or undergarments for the appointment if desired.
• Discuss inhalation concerns - Ask about nose filters and proper spray technique to minimize risks.
• Test a small area first - Try a patch test spray tan on a small part of skin before committing to a full body nude session.
• Bring a robe - Wear a robe en route to the salon and keep one on hand at the room for pre/post tanning.

While naked spray tanning allows for gorgeous, even coverage sans tan lines, it's not necessarily the right choice for everyone. Assess your own boundaries and comfort level before booking an all-over nude session. With some general safety precautions and an experienced technician, however, naked spray tans can give your skin a gorgeous faux glow minus the tan lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to go naked for a spray tan?

No, going naked is not required for spray tans. Many people prefer to wear underwear or swimsuits to cover private areas during their spray tan appointment. Nude spray tanning simply provides an option for those who would like an all-over tan without any tan lines.

What do you wear during a naked spray tan?

Most clients go completely nude for naked spray tan appointments in order to achieve the best results. However, salons sometimes provide minimal coverings like disposable thongs or underwear if desired for modesty.

How do you prepare for a naked spray tan?

To prepare for a naked spray tan, exfoliate and moisturize your skin the day before for smooth results. Remove any deodorant, perfumes or oils before your appointment. Arrive with clean skin and free of makeup or lotions that could cause streaking. Bring dark loose clothing to wear afterwards and avoid rubbing or sweating to allow the bronzer to fully develop.

What do you do after a naked spray tan?

After your naked spray tan, rinse off in a tepid shower to remove any bronzer residue but avoid soaking or scrubbing for 8-12 hours to allow the DHA to fully absorb. Pat dry and moisturize skin to help prolong your glow. Wait at least 8 hours before sweating or submerging in water.

How much does a naked spray tan cost?

Naked spray tan prices can vary by location and salon. On average, expect to pay $40-$70 per session for an all-over nude spray tan. Some salons offer discounted rates for naked tans since they require less solution. Package deals are also sometimes available if getting multiple spray tans.

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.