Achieving Safe, Sunless Tans with Spray Tanning in La Jolla

Exploring Spray Tanning in La Jolla, CA

With ample sunshine year-round, La Jolla attracts beachgoers seeking a sun-kissed glow. However, prolonged sun exposure increases skin cancer risk. For bronzed skin without the damage, many opt for spray tanning offered at local salons and spas. Discover the pros, cons, options, and best practices for safe, customized spray tans in La Jolla, CA.

Benefits of Spray Tanning

Compared to UV tanning, spray tans offer several advantages:

• No exposure to UV rays that cause skin cancer and premature aging
• More customizable color, evenness, and duration
• Faster, longer-lasting results
• Minimizes tan lines
• Suitable for most skin types and tones

How Spray Tanning Works

Spray tanning solutions contain an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that interacts with dead skin cells to temporarily darken skin tone. Salons use automated or handheld spray equipment to apply the solution evenly across the body for seamless coverage.

Choosing a Spray Tan Provider in La Jolla

La Jolla offers dozens of salons and spas that provide professional spray tanning services. Consider the following factors when selecting the best location for your needs:

Spray Tan Methods

Facilities use different application methods including:

• Full-body automated spray booths
• Handheld spray equipment
• Airbrush spray tanning

Decide whether you prefer lying down or standing during the process.

Solution Ingredients

Higher end DHA solutions contain additional ingredients for skin care benefits:

• Plant extracts like green tea, aloe vera, argan oil
• Anti-aging peptides
• Essential oils for scent

Ask providers about solution ingredients that meet your preferences.

Certified Technicians

Well-trained spray tan technicians have certification through organizations like the International Spa Association (ISPA). They know proper techniques for prep, positioning, and customizing sessions for exceptional, even coverage.

Preparing for Your Spray Tan Session

Following best practices before and during your spray tan leads to longer lasting, better results. Recommendations include:

Exfoliating Skin

Gently scrub body with an exfoliating cloth, brush, or loofah before appointment. This removes dead skin cells so solution absorbs evenly.

Shaving

If needed, shave at least 8 hours prior to session to prevent irritation. The spray solution can cause stinging with fresh nicks or cuts.

Moisturizing

Hydrate skin with an oil-free moisturizer, focusing on dry areas prone to absorbing more solution like hands, feet, knees and elbows.

Protecting Sensitive Areas

Use petroleum jelly to protect mucous membranes of nostrils, ears, lips. Also shield hairline, nails. Technicians should provide nose filters, hair caps and gloves.

Wearing Loose Dark Clothing

Wear dark, loose clothing that won't rub off solution. Many facilities provide disposable underwear and robe.

What to Expect During the Session

Spray tanning only takes 10-15 minutes. Technicians direct positioning during the full-body application and may manually spray missed spots afterward. Expect:

• Standing with feet shoulder width apart, arms slightly outstretched
• Slowly turning clockwise during initial spraying
• Periodically lifting arms or moving slightly to reach all areas
• Eyes and mucous membranes protected throughout
• Feeling of fine mist accumulating on skin

Technicians avoid overspraying specific areas so color looks natural. They may use barrier cream on hands, feet, joints to prevent too dark coloring if needed.

Aftercare to Prolong Your Spray Tan

Refrain from activities that remove skin's outer layer for 8-12 hours post-spray to allow DHA full development time. Help color last 5-10 days with these tips:

• Delay bathing for 8-12 hours
• Avoid sweating heavily or swimming
• Use water-resistant hygiene products
• Apply daily moisturizer to retain hydration
• Gently exfoliate before tanning fades to avoid uneven shedding

Maintaining a Sunless Glow Year-Round

While one session may provide enough bronzed color for a vacation or event, consider ongoing spray tans to maintain a healthy glow in La Jolla year-round. Multi-session packages also offer cost savings.

Supplement With Self-Tanners

Prolong spray tan results with self-tanning lotions, mousses and gels between salon sessions:

• Buildable formulas for customizable color
• Some last over a week with daily use
• Most contain skin moisturizing and smoothing properties

Consider Membership Plans

For unlimited access to spray tanning all year, some La Jolla salons offer monthly memberships with exclusive rates. This allows flexibility for maintaining sun-kissed skin year-round.

Is Spray Tanning Safe?

Reputable facilities use high quality DHA solutions and follow careful application techniques for safe spray tanning with minimal risks. However, potential side effects include:

• Skin or eye irritation and stinging
• Allergic reactions
• Premature aging or damage if solution contains harmful additives
• Increased skin sensitivity to sunlight

Discuss medical conditions with your provider and test solution on a small patch of skin before full treatment.

Who Should Exercise Caution

Check with your doctor before spray tanning if you:

• Have very fair or sensitive skin
• Take photosensitizing medications
• Have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
• Are or may be pregnant

With some precautions, most people can safely achieve sun-kissed beauty through 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.