Get a Safe, Flawless Spray Tan in Ann Arbor, MI - The Benefits and What to Expect

The Benefits of Spray Tanning in Ann Arbor, MI

With summer just around the corner, many people in Ann Arbor, MI are looking for ways to get a sun-kissed glow without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. This is where spray tanning comes in! Spray tanning, also known as sunless tanning, is a safe and effective way to achieve a golden bronze tone without UV exposure. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of spray tans in Ann Arbor and why more people are making the switch from traditional tanning beds.

A Safer Alternative to UV Tanning

Traditional tanning using UV beds exposes your skin to ultraviolet radiation, which we now know can significantly increase your risk of developing skin cancer. In fact, people who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent. Spray tanning provides a much safer alternative that still allows you to achieve a beautifully bronzed look.

High quality spray tanning solutions use an active ingredient called DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which interacts with your skin cells to temporarily darken the color of your skin. Unlike UV rays which damage DNA and cause mutations, DHA is a sugar-based solution that poses no threat to cell structures or DNA. Numerous studies have confirmed the safety of DHA for topical use.

Achieve a Flawless, Streak-Free Tan

One of the biggest complaints people have with self-applied lotions and creams is that it's nearly impossible to apply them evenly. The result is often a splotchy, streaky tan. With spray tanning, the solution is applied evenly over your entire body by a trained professional using an airbrush tanning system. This ensures the color develops uniformly for a flawless, natural looking result with no streaks or missed spots.

Technicians are also skilled in properly prepping the skin beforehand and using techniques to thoroughly blend the solution where it's sprayed. The end result is a seamless, flawless glow that looks just like you spent a week on the beaches of Tahiti!

Instant, Long-Lasting Results

One of the best parts about spray tanning is how quickly it produces results. There's no waiting days for your color to develop - you'll notice an immediate difference in your skin tone once your session is complete. And the color lasts much longer than most self-tanning lotions, especially when paired with frequent applications.

With proper exfoliation between sessions, you can expect your spray tan to last anywhere from 7-10 days. For the best long-lasting glow, most salons recommend scheduling maintenance appointments every 7-10 days. Because the DHA only reacts with the top layer of your skin, your color will naturally fade as your skin sheds dead cells.

A Customized Tan Just for You

No two people's skin is exactly the same, which is why a custom tailored session is so important. The best spray tan technicians will conduct a thorough consultation before your appointment to assess your skin type and tone. This allows them to select the optimal shade, formula and technique to complement your complexion.

For fair or sensitive skin, a lighter solution and blend of bronzers may be used to achieve a softer glow. Darker skin tones are often best enhanced with deeper, more olive-based solutions. There are also specially formulated solutions for oily, dry or acne-prone skin. When customized correctly by a skilled technician, the results look completely natural.

What to Expect During Your Spray Tan Appointment

If you've never had a professional spray tan before, you may be wondering what the process entails. Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect when you book a session:

Pre-Tan Skin Preparation

To help your tan last as long as possible, your technician will have you prep your skin a certain way before your appointment. This prep may include:

• Exfoliating to remove any dry skin or residue
• Moisturizing with oil-free formulas
• Avoiding deodorant, makeup, perfumes or lotions before your tan

Shaving and waxing is best done at least 24 hours prior to maximize tan longevity.

Protecting Hair, Nails and Sensitive Areas

Before your session begins, you'll be given disposable nipple covers, hair nets, and nail guards to protect these areas. Sensitive regions like genitalia and the inside of your nose and ears will also be avoided.

Standing in Specific Positions

Your technician will have you stand in certain positions, such as raising your arms or facing away, to evenly coat specific areas of your body. Sessions are typically done in private room with adequate coverage, so there's no need to feel self-conscious!

Light Misting as the Technician Works

Using a professional airbrush tanning system, your technician will lightly mist your skin in sections while blending the solution thoroughly. The spray nozzle evenly distributes a fine mist to ensure smooth, flawless coverage. You'll feel a slight tingling but the process is quick, taking just 10-15 minutes total.

Final Touches and Dry Time

Your technician may use wiping motions once finished to further blend any areas that need it. After your session, you'll have a few minutes for the initial mist to absorb while residual bronzers fully develop. Be sure to wear loose dark clothing after your appointment while skin is drying. Within just a few hours, you'll be rocking a gorgeous glow!

Aftercare Tips for Maximizing Your Spray Tan

You've just invested time and money into getting a professional, customized spray tan - so make sure you follow proper aftercare to get the most longevity from your glow! Here are some top tips for care following your spray tanning session:

Let it Fully Develop Before Showering

It's crucial to allow at least 8 hours before showering or swimming after your tan. This gives your skin adequate time to fully absorb the DHA and allows the bronzers to fully oxidize and set. Premature rinsing can cause uneven fading and splotchiness.

Use a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Wash

Once you do shower, stick to gentle cleansers and avoid scrubbing. Look for soaps that are fragrance-free and won't prematurely strip your tan. Exfoliating too soon will quickly remove your color.

Moisturize Daily

Keep your spray tan glowing longer by moisturizing once or twice daily with a hydrating, oil-free formula. Hydrated skin holds onto self tanners better. Just don't over-lather areas like knees, elbows and hands which fade more quickly.

Avoid Chlorine and Hot Tubs

Swimming in pools, hot tubs and salt water can all accelerate the breakdown of your tan. If possible, avoid submerging for the first 2-3 days. At minimum wait 24 hours post-tan before enjoying a dip.

Exfoliate Gently Before Your Next Session

To prep dull skin for your next spray tan, gently exfoliate using a loofah, dry brushing or chemical exfoliant. Never use harsh scrubs which can strip your tan prematurely. Just lightly buff away dead skin so your next application goes on smoothly.

Where to Get a Spray Tan in Ann Arbor, MI

Thanks to spray tanning's immense popularity, there are plenty of great salons to choose from in Ann Arbor for sunless tanning. When booking your spray tan, look for an experienced technician who has specialized training in spray tanning application and uses high quality equipment and solutions. Here are some of the top-rated spots for professional airbrush tanning in Ann Arbor:

Glow Beauty Bar

This trendy downtown salon offers custom organic spray tanning using eco-friendly, vegan solutions. Services include airbrush tanning as well as sugaring hair removal. Clients rave about the friendly staff and flawless results.

Seva Beauty

Seva is an Aveda salon and spa providing aromatherapy-infused spray tans. Their technicians are highly trained and provide complimentary skin consultations to tailor your sunless tan. Organic spray solutions and eyewear provided.

Le Tan Ann Arbor

Part of a nationwide sunless tanning company, Le Tan offers cutting-edge VersaSpa spray tanning using organic solutions. Perks include a membership program for frequent tanners and their trained techs provide top-notch service.

Palm Beach Tan

With multiple locations in Ann Arbor, Palm Beach Tan is known for their state-of-the-art spray tanning equipment and wide selection of tanning lotions. Their knowledgeable staff can help you achieve the perfect sun-kissed color.

The Bottom Line on Spray Tanning

Achieving a bronze glow without exposing your skin to UV damage is possible with professional spray tanning. Today's solutions produce flawless, natural looking color when applied correctly by a skilled technician. With proper prep and aftercare, spray tans can last up to 2 weeks or more.

For sun-kissed color without the harmful effects of UV light, spray tanning is a safe and effective alternative. The many Ann Arbor salons offering quality spray tanning services can help tailor the perfect custom color just for you.

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.