What Are the Benefits of Spray Tanning?
A glowing, sun-kissed tan can make people look healthy, youthful, and attractive. However, excessive sun exposure or tanning beds can severely damage skin and increase skin cancer risk. Spray tanning offers a safer alternative for achieving a golden glow without harmful UV radiation exposure. When performed correctly, airbrush spray tans provide numerous aesthetic and health benefits.
More Realistic-Looking Than Self-Tanners
Compared to self-tanning lotions, spray tanning solutions contain added DHA bronzers that provide instant color while the DHA develops over 24-48 hours. This gives a more natural-looking, even tone than self-tanners. The solution is sprayed evenly over the entire body by a trained technician to prevent streaking or missed spots.
Customizable Shades
Clients can choose their desired level of darkness, from a subtle glow to a deep tan. Multiple applications over several sessions allow building a customized color. For those concerned about looking unnaturally orange, quality spray solution brands offer more nuanced tones.
Longer Lasting Results
Professional spray tans fade more gradually than self-tanners. Exfoliating before sessions and avoiding products containing oils or perfumes can extend results. Touch-up appointments every 1-2 weeks help maintain color. Some salons offer monthly spray tan membership packages for year-round bronzing.
Minimizes Tan Lines
Thorough application by a technician reduces uneven tan lines from swimsuit straps or underwear. Nude coverings are worn during sessions. For totally even coverage, spray tans are ideal when vacationing or before photo shoots.
Moisturizing Benefits
The tinted bronzers contain moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter. This hydrates and nourishes skin while providing a smooth canvas for DHA to react with proteins in the outer layer. Properly formulated solutions do not dry out the skin.
Safe Alternative to UV Exposure
Spray tans provide a healthy option compared to outdoor sunbathing or tanning beds, which emit UV radiation shown to cause skin cancer and premature aging. The active ingredient DHA reacts only with skin cells on the outermost surface to create color change without penetrating deeper layers.
Confidence Booster
Research indicates people tend to find tanned skin more attractive. Many spray tan clients report a confidence boost and feel better about wearing swimsuits or form-fitting outfits after bronzing. This uplifted self-image during warmer seasons provides emotional benefits.
Subtle Scent
Quality spray tanning solutions contain a mild cosmetic bronzer scent. Unlike strong self-tanner odors that can cling to skin and clothing, airbrush spray scents dissipate more quickly. Any remaining scent fades along with the tan over several days.
Convenience Factor
Getting a professional spray tan is quicker, easier and less messy than the lengthy ritual of self-tanning. The controlled spray method prevents drips and streaks from botched home applications. Some mobile spray services even come directly to client's homes for ultimate convenience.
What to Expect During Spray Tan Appointments
Professional spray tanning involves a few simple steps for flawless results. Here is a typical salon session:
Consultation
The technician assesses your skin tone, reviews aesthetic goals, and recommends solutions. Requesting samples helps select preferred shades.
Preparation
Exfoliating and shaving should be done 24 hours prior. Deodorant, perfumes, makeup and oils are avoided pre-tan to prevent barrier interference. Loose dark clothing is worn.
Application
Eyes, lips, hairline, and nails are protected with barrier cream and gloves. Solutions are sprayed in thin, overlapping layers while rotating positions for even coverage.
Processing
After spraying, clients wait 10-15 minutes for bronzers to fully develop before dressing. Technicians may use blow dryers to accelerate drying.
Caring for Results
Showering, sweating heavily, and chlorine exposure should be avoided immediately post-tan to allow DHA full development time. Gentle moisturizers prolong color.
Maintenance
To maintain depth of tone, reapply every 5-10 days. Exfoliating gently before re-spraying removes any dingy buildup for refreshed results.
Are There Any Risks With Spray Tanning?
When performed by a licensed professional using quality solutions, spray tanning is very safe. However, a few precautions apply:
Avoid Inhalation
Breathing apparatus prevents inhaling spray mist. Solutions use FDA-approved DHA concentrations but should not be directly inhaled in large volumes.
Allergies
The small percentage of people allergic to DHA may experience rashes, swelling or breathing issues, though this is extremely rare. Test a small patch first.
Eye Contact
Barrier creams prevent spray from contacting eyes but any irritation should be flushed immediately with water. Contact lenses are removed prior to sessions.
Pregnancy Concerns
While no research confirms risks of spray tans during pregnancy, many doctors recommend avoiding it in the first trimester as a precaution.
Contraindications
Certain skin conditions, recent waxing/shaving, and medications may increase sensitivity or inhibit ideal results. Consult your technician.
Unskilled Technicians
Inexperienced or untrained sprayers may cause unevenness, streaking or discoloration. Verify salons use licensed professionals.
Low-Quality Solutions
Cheaper products may lack nutrients, produce orange tones or trigger reactions. Top brands like Aviva Labs, Mystic Tan, and Norvell avoid this.
Home Spray Tan Machines
At-home airbrush tanning machines allow DIY-ers to save time and money once the initial investment is made. Models like L'Oreal's Airbrush Legs provide ease of use for beginners. However, limitations include:
- Steeper learning curve
- Requires second person for full body
- Short hose limits maneuverability
- Prone to streaking or missed spots
Overall, salon sessions offer a smoother finish by professionals. But home machines provide an affordable option for maintaining color between appointments.
Comparing Spray Tans to Self-Tanners
Self-tanners (lotions, gels, foams) allow DIY bronzing but often yield less even, natural-looking results than professional sprays. Here's how the two stack up:
Application Method
Self-tanners require lengthy application by hand. Spray machines provide quick, even coverage of hard-to-reach spots.
Drying Time
Self-tanners require 30-60 minutes of drying before dressing. The thin mist of spray tans allows dressing in 15 minutes.
Development Time
Self-tanners develop color in 2-4 hours. Spray solutions contain instant bronzers for immediate color, followed by DHA.
Longevity
Self-tanners fade after 3-5 days. Spray tans last 5-10 days for most clients based on skin type.
Shades
Self-tanners come in limited "medium" or "dark" shades. Sp
FAQs
How long do professional spray tans last?
With proper prep and care, spray tans can last 5-10 days depending on your skin type. Exfoliating regularly and moisturizing extends the longevity. Reapply every 1-2 weeks to maintain color.
What should I wear during a spray tan appointment?
Wear loose, dark clothing that covers any area you don't want tanned. Barrier creams protect sensitive areas. Robes or disposable underwear are usually provided by salons.
Can I get a spray tan if I'm pregnant?
Most doctors recommend avoiding spray tans during the first trimester as a precaution. Second and third trimester tans are considered safe but consult your obstetrician.
Will spray tans stain my clothes or sheets?
Minimal bronzers may rub off on fabrics right after session but wash out after laundering. Wear loose dark clothing immediately after to prevent stains.
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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