Best Spray Tan Salons in Columbus, Ohio - Custom Airbrush Tanning

Finding the Best Spray Tan in Columbus, Ohio

With warmer weather approaching, many of us are thinking about getting a sun-kissed glow before slipping into those summer clothes. However, exposing your skin to harmful UV rays just to get a tan comes with short-term and long-term health risks. A safer alternative is to get an airbrush or spray tan in Columbus, Ohio.

Why Choose Spray Tanning?

Spray tanning, often called airbrush tanning, has become increasingly popular over recent years. The tanning solution used contains an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that interacts with dead skin cells on the surface of your body. This reaction causes the skin to temporarily darken, resulting in what mimics a natural-looking tan.

There are several advantages to choosing spray tanning in Columbus over baking in the sun or using tanning beds:

• No exposure to UV radiation, which causes skin cancer and premature aging
• Even, customizable coverage - no tan lines!
• Minimal preparation needed
• Results last 5-10 days generally
• Safe for all skin types

How to Choose the Best Spray Tan Studio

If you've decided to get a spray tan in Columbus, Ohio, making sure you choose an experienced, professional tanning studio is crucial. Here are some top things to look for when selecting the best place to get your sun-kissed glow:

1. Trained technicians: Look for salons with tanning specialists who have been thoroughly trained and certified in spray tanning application techniques.
2. Specialize in spray tans: Studios that focus on airbrush tanning (rather than standalone beds or booths) often deliver superior results.
3. Use quality tanning solutions: Top professional brands like Aviva Labs, Mystic Tan, and Norvell ensure more predictable, natural-looking color.
4. Offer customization: From light, medium or dark tanning shades to precise back, hand, and feet applications - customized coverage is key.
5. Pay attention to reviews: Online reviews can provide insightful first-hand experiences from past clients on things like service, ambiance, and tan results.

Best Spray Tan Studios in Columbus

Columbus has no shortage of spray tanning salons - but not all deliver an exceptional tanning experience. After extensive research, here are our top picks for the best spray tan studios in Columbus and why we recommend them:

Glow Express Spray Tanning

Located in Upper Arlington, Glow Express Spray Tanning came out on top as our number one studio for airbrush tans. Things that set them apart include:

• 11 years specializing exclusively in custom airbrush tanning
• Highly-trained technicians who make you feel comfortable throughout the process
• Offer organic, vegan and gluten-free tanning solutions
• Body contouring application techniques for precise, flawless coverage
• Exceptional post-tan hydrating and skin nourishing services
• Highest rated Columbus spray tan studio on Google, Yelp and Facebook

Whether you're looking for a subtle glow or a deep tan, Glow Express Spray Tanning has an extensive selection of solutions to meet your custom tanning needs.

Bronze Betties

Starting as a mobile spray tanning business, Bronze Betties has grown to three brick-and-mortar locations across Columbus. Here's what they have to offer:

• Clean, contemporary salon ambiance for a relaxing tanning session
• Over 25 custom airbrush machine/solution combinations
• Organic and 100% vegan tanning solution options
• 360 airbrush machines for expert application coverage
• Memberships and monthly unlimited tanning deals available
• Complimentary dermasuri body scrub add-on service

Despite being a franchise, customer reviews consistently praise the outstanding service, attention to detail and consistently flawless results the Bronze Betties staff provides.

The Tan Authority

In business for over 18 years, this family-owned and operated spray tanning studio has won several "Best of Columbus" awards over the years. Key reasons they made our top professionals list include:

• Specialize in airbrush tanning application - it's their entire business
• Consultative approach starts by selecting best machine & solution for your skin tone
• Offer 3 levels of tanning intensity from a subtle glow to intense bronze
• 360 airbrush machines provide complete, uniform coverage
• Proprietary skin care and self-tanning retail products
• Free tan-enhancing dermabrasion service

The Tan Authority's attention to their clients' individual needs, high quality products and consistently flawless, customizable tanning is clearly demonstrated in outstanding online reviews.

What to Expect With Professional Spray Tanning

Before Your Session

Once you've booked your airbrush tanning session, here are some preparations your technician may recommend:

• Exfoliate skin thoroughly before tanning - this sloughs off any dead skin cells allowing for even application and longer lasting color.
• Shave/wax at least 24 hours pre-tan - breaking the skin's barrier right before tanning can lead to uneven tones.
• Come cleaned & residue-free - chemicals and oils on skin can create unwanted barriers during application.
• Wear loose dark clothing you don't mind getting some solution on.
• Use barriers on nails, hairline, etc if wanted - these prevent tanning solution absorption in unwanted areas.

The Tanning Session

Every studio is slightly different but you can generally expect the following airbrush tanning process:

1. Choose your desired level of tan color intensity - subtle, medium or ultra bronze.
2. Undress to your comfort level and stand in position to begin.
3. Technician custom applies tanning solution evenly across your entire body.
4. Special attention and touch-ups done on hands, feet, knees and elbows.
5. Session complete - estimated 10 minutes or less of actual spray time.
6. Allow solution to set and dry completely into skin - 10+ minutes.

Post-Session Care

To allow your custom spray tan color to properly set and achieve maximum longevity, follow these general after-care guidelines:

• Wait 8-12 hours before bathing or sweating to allow DHA full development.
• Moisturize daily to enhance and extend color.
• Avoid chlorinated pools, hot tubs and activities causing excessive perspiration.
• Exfoliate gently 3-4 days after to maximize spray tan duration.
• Wear loose clothing and avoid friction or pressure points.

Achieve Your Sun-Kissed Glow

With so many high quality spray tanning salons throughout Columbus, getting your perfect bronze goddess color while protecting your skin health has never been easier. We hope our spray tan studio recommendations and tips help you decide on the best place to achieve a beautiful, natural-looking summer glow all year long!

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.