The Safety and Benefits of Spray Tanning in Vestavia Hills, Alabama

The Safety and Popularity of Spray Tans in Vestavia Hills

With warm weather approaching, many people look for ways to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. This is where spray tanning comes in - it provides a safe, convenient way to get some color. Spray tans are especially popular in Vestavia Hills, a city in Jefferson County, Alabama known for its affluent suburbs and outdoor lifestyle. But are spray tans really as safe as they seem? Let's take a deeper look at the safety, benefits, and things to consider when getting a spray tan in Vestavia Hills.

Understanding How Spray Tans Work

Spray tanning solutions contain an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that interacts with the amino acids on the skin's surface to temporarily darken its appearance. When DHA is applied evenly to the skin, it produces a natural-looking tan that develops over 2-4 hours and lasts 4-10 days.

The tanning solutions are applied by a technician using a special spray gun inside a tanning booth. The solution comes out as a fine mist that adheres evenly to the skin. The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes and leaves minimal mess or stickiness. Once you leave the salon, you simply wait for the color to develop.

The Safety Profile of DHA

The FDA has extensively reviewed studies on DHA and found it safe for external use. Because DHA only interacts with the outermost layer of skin, it does not penetrate deep enough to reach living cells or blood vessels. This means there is minimal absorption or risk of toxicity.

Some people may experience minor irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin after spray tans. These side effects usually resolve quickly. People with especially sensitive skin may wish to do a patch test before their first spray tan.

Benefits of Spray Tans in Vestavia Hills

Here are some of the benefits that make spray tans so popular among Vestavia Hills residents:

• Safer alternative to UV tanning - Eliminates skin damage and cancer risk from UV exposure
• Quick and convenient - Entire process takes less than 15 minutes
• Customizable results - Can control depth of color with solution choice
• Natural-looking color - Carefully blended by a professional for an even application
• Fades evenly - Color gradually disappears vs peeling from sunburns
• No sun sensitivity - Can get color even with sun allergies

How to Prepare for Your Spray Tan

To ensure you get the best, longest-lasting results from your spray tan in Vestavia Hills, follow these prep tips:

• Exfoliate - Gently scrub body with exfoliant mitt or loofah to remove dead skin cells
• Shave - Wax or shave at least 24 hours before appointment to prevent irritation
• Moisturize - Apply unscented body lotion daily for several days before tanning
• Avoid oils/perfumes - These can create barriers that lead to uneven tanning
• Wear loose clothes - Tight clothes can rub off solution before it sets
• Remove makeup - Come with a clean face free of makeup, oils and serums

What to Expect During Your Spray Tan

Here is a typical sequence of events for spray tanning in Vestavia Hills:

1. Arrive at salon and check in
2. Consult with technician about desired level of color
3. Technician provides disposable undergarments and gloves
4. Stand in booth in proper pose as technician sprays solution
5. Solution is left on skin for 10-15 minutes before rinsing
6. Leave salon and allow color to fully develop over next 4 hours
7. Avoid water, sweating, or tight clothing for 8-12 hours
8. Exfoliate gently in shower once tan begins to fade

Finding a Reputable Spray Tan Salon in Vestavia Hills

With spray tanning's popularity, many salons now offer it. Look for places that:

• Use high quality DHA solutions from reputable brands
• Have trained, experienced technicians to apply solution
• Offer different solution levels to customize color
• Use well-maintained spray equipment and booths
• Provide prep guidance and follow-up care instructions
• Have good reviews for service, cleanliness and results

Spray tans cost $15-50 per session in the Vestavia Hills area depending on the salon.

Caring for Skin After a Spray Tan

To make your spray tan last as long as possible:

• Wait 8-12 hours before bathing or sweating heavily
• Pat dry skin gently - don't rub vigorously with towel
• Apply moisturizer daily to help color fade evenly
• Avoid chlorinated pools, hot tubs and long baths
• Exfoliate gently when tan starts looking uneven or patchy
• Don't scrub skin too hard or use skin peels - this can remove color prematurely

DIY Spray Tan Kits

DIY spray tanning kits can save money but lead to uneven results. Tips for best at-home application:

• Have someone help you spray hard to reach spots
• Use sweeping motions and keep sprayer 6-12 inches from skin
• Spray in well-ventilated area away from furniture, pets, etc.
• Exfoliate and moisturize skin for 2-3 days beforehand
• Carefully rinse solution off hands, feet, elbows and knees

Achieve a Healthy-Looking Glow Safely with Spray Tans

Spray tanning satisfies the seasonal desire for sun-kissed color in a safer way than UV tanning. The active ingredient DHA provides realistic, customized color when applied by trained professionals. With some prep and proper aftercare, Vestavia Hills residents can enjoy their spray tan results for up to two weeks.

Finding a reputable salon and technician is key to getting natural-looking color evenly applied. While DIY kits provide a cheaper alternative, they can be messy and lead to streaky results. Take the time to care for your skin before and after your spray tan in Vestavia Hills, and youll have a gorgeous glow without the sun damage.

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.