The Safety and Popularity of Spray Tanning in Brentwood
With warmer weather approaching, many people start thinking about showing some skin. However, not everyone feels confident about how their skin looks, especially if it's on the pale side. This is where spray tanning comes in - it provides a temporary bronzed glow without exposure to UV rays. Spray tans have become an extremely popular pre-summer ritual in places like Brentwood. But how safe are they really? Let's take a closer look.
Understanding How Spray Tans Work
Spray tanning solutions utilize an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When DHA reacts with dead skin cells on the epidermis, a color change occurs resulting in a tan. The effects generally last between 5 and 10 days as the skin naturally sheds dead cells. Most solutions also contain botanical extracts as well as vitamins and antioxidants aimed at skin nourishment.
FDA Research on DHA Safety
The FDA has conducted extensive research on DHA safety due to the widespread use of spray tans and self-tanners containing this ingredient. Their findings show that DHA is safe when used topically according to manufacturer instructions. While inhaling DHA can be harmful, reputable spray tan salons take precautions like providing nose filters to minimize inhalation risk.
Choosing a Spray Tan Salon in Brentwood
If you opt for a sunless tan via a professional spray tan service, do some research first. Look for salons with extensive experience in spray tanning as well as excellent reviews. Quality salons disinfect equipment between clients, make clients wear nose filters, and have technicians that are skilled in providing uniform, natural-looking results. Top Brentwood spray tan salons include Endless Summer Spray Tan, Palm Beach Tan, and LA Tan.
How to Prepare for Your Spray Tan
Preparing properly for your spray tan gives you the best chance of gorgeous, streak-free results. Exfoliate gently before your appointment - this removes dead skin cells allowing the DHA better access to interact with epidermal proteins. Shave or wax as needed since hair can create an uneven tan. The salon will have you wear minimal tight clothing to allow maximum skin exposure for the technician. Loose dark clothing and flip flops are ideal for right after your session.
Caring for Skin Post-Spray Tan
Be sure to avoid water exposure for 8-12 hours after your spray tan. This allows the DHA adequate time to fully react with skin proteins to produce the desired bronzing effect. Avoid exercise or perspiring heavily during this time frame also. Gently pat skin dry after showering instead of rubbing vigorously with a towel. Use a daily body moisturizer to nourish skin and extend the life of your customized sunless tan.
Understanding Self-Tanning Products
How Do Self-Tanners Work?
Self-tanning lotions and gels also contain DHA as the active ingredient responsible for creating a tanned appearance. The convenience factor appeals to many busy individuals looking for a quick sun-kissed glow from the comfort of home. Those concerned about coronavirus exposure also appreciated the do-it-yourself approach in recent years.
Choosing the Right Formula
Self-tanning products are available in a wide range of shades from light bronze to ultra-dark. Consider your natural skin tone when selecting a formula to achieve the most natural-looking coloration. Those with fairer skin should choose a lighter shade while those with olive or darker complexions can opt for a deeper hue. Lotions, mousses, gels, towlettes, and even spray options exist so you can pick your preferred texture and application method.
Application Techniques
To achieve evencoverage with a self-tanner, thoroughly exfoliate first. Then use circular motions to apply the product - don't forget wrists, knees, ankles and feet. Some self-tanners contain instant color guides or bronzers so you can track application and see if youve missed any patches. Wait the recommended time based on product directions before showering or submerging in water so the DHA has sufficient time to fully react.
Maintaining Your Self-Tan
Home self-tans tend to fade more quickly than professional spray tans due to natural exfoliation from daily activities like showering. To maintain your sunless tan at home, apply self-tanner two to three times a week focusing on the most prone to fading areas like hands, feet, knees and elbows. Be vigilant about properly exfoliating prior to reapplication to avoid uneven buildup and unnatural looking coloration.
The Bottom Line on Spray Tans and Self-Tanners
Both Provide Safer Alternatives to UV Tanning
The active ingredient DHA used in spray tans and self-tanners has an excellent safety profile. Both alternatives allow you to achieve a sun-kissed glow without risky UV exposure which ages and damages skin. Of course, limiting unprotected UV exposure and using sunscreen year round remains imperative for skin cancer prevention.
Professional Services May Yield Superior Results
Those new to sunless tanning often find better outcomes occur with professional spray tans compared to amateur self-tanning attempts. Skilled technicians properly prep the skin first and use specialized equipment and techniques for flawless, uniform coverage. At home self-tanning mishaps like streaking are common without such expertise.
Both Require Maintenance for Best Results
While professional spray tans may last 7-14 days on average, self-tans often require reapplication every 2-3 days. To offset fading, exfoliate first before reapplying self-tanner focusing on the most prone to wear areas. With either method, moisturizing daily in circular motions extends tan life by nourishing skin.
In the sun-loving Brentwood area, spray tans and self-tanners offer popular safe alternatives to risky UV ray exposure. When applied and maintained properly, both fake bakes allow you to bare your skin with bronze goddess confidence all season long.
FAQs
Is spray tanning safe during pregnancy?
Most experts consider spray tans safe for pregnant women when performed by an experienced technician at a reputable salon. Precautions will be taken to minimize inhalation and usage of DHA follows recommended guidelines.
How long before my spray tan appointment should I shave?
It's best to shave 24 hours prior to your spray tan. Shaving right before may cause microscopic cuts that impact application and color development. Waxing should also be done at least 24 hours pre-tan.
Will my spray tan stain my expensive designer bag?
Quality spray tan solutions fully dry within a few hours, so they won't stain or transfer onto clothing, bags or furniture after that initial drying period. Avoid contact with light fabrics or leather right after your session before the bronzer sets.
Can I go in the ocean after a spray tan?
It's best to wait 24 hours before going in ocean, pools, hot tubs or other water exposures to allow your custom spray tan to fully set. After that you can swim without it completely washing off, but some fading is inevitable with heavy water submersion or friction.
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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