Best Spray Tan Salons in San Jose, CA

How Spray Tanning Works

Spray tan solutions utilize an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that interacts with dead surface skin cells to temporarily darken skin tone. When DHA is misted evenly across the body using a spray nozzle, it produces a natural-looking tan result within 4-6 hours as the skin develops color.

Compared to laying out or tanning beds, spray tans offer immense safety advantages. Because no UV light is involved, there is no risk of burns, accelerated photoaging, or skin cancer from this process. And spray tan results typically last about 5-10 days before naturally fading.

Choosing a Spray Tan Solution

There are three main formulation types when it comes to sunless tanning solutions:

Bronzers - Instant color that washes off in the shower
Tinglers - Cause slight plumping reaction on skin
DHA - Slowly develop natural tan color for days

For long-lasting sunless color, DHA-based solutions are ideal. Be sure to exfoliate skin before appointments to maximize absorption and evenly-distributed results.

Best Spray Tan Salons in San Jose, California

From specialty tanning lounges to full-service salons, San Jose offers premier destinations to get your sun-kissed glow. Here are the top-rated spray tan salons in the area:

Palm Beach Tan

With over a dozen locations across the South Bay, Palm Beach Tan is the largest tanning franchise in San Jose. They offer three levels of spray tan solution to customize color depth for light, medium, and dark skin tones. Their high-volume Mystic HD machines ensure flawless application every visit.

South Beach Tanning Salon

This hip salon focuses exclusively on sunless tanning with a wide menu of spray options like regular, anti-aging, and dark formulas. South Beach's stand-up spray tan booth is completely adjustable for height and offers temperature control for comfort during the quick session.

Exotic Sun Tanning Boutique

Exotic Sun brings a luxury spa ambiance to the spray tanning experience with indulgent Vanilla Mist aroma, calming music, and chromotherapy mood lighting. Their two custom applicators help cover every angle of your body to ensure perfect, streak-free color.

Malibu Tan

The spray techs at Malibu Tan are committed customer service, answering all your DHA-related questions during consultations. This salon offers Bronzer Boost add-on for immediate color gratification while developing longer-lasting tone underneath for up to 10 days of wear time per session.

Preparing for Your Spray Tan Session

Achieving flawless, uniform color from a spray tan requires some prep work. Here are some tips for getting your skin ready before an appointment:

Exfoliate

Gently scrubbing away dead skin cells before your spray tan allows for maximum DHA absorption and more even application across areas prone to dry patches like elbows and knees.

Remove Hair

Shaving and hair removal should be completed at least 24 hours pre-tan so any irritation can calm down. Growing stubble can cause uneven tanning results. Hair also blocks DHA absorption leading to splotchiness.

Moisturize Skin

Hydrating skin the day before, but not right before, your spray tan helps stop flaking and dryness which impede smooth color development. Light creams are best so residue doesnt create barriers.

Wear Loose Dark Clothing

Tight clothing can rub off developing color before it sets. Loose, dark long sleeves and pants prevent product transfer while avoiding stains from wet solution rinsing off post-session.

Remove Makeup and Perfumes

Clean bare skin allows for best spray tan results. Traces of soap, oils, and fragrances can create uneven DHA reactions. Always arrive make-up free at your appointment.

Caring for Skin Post-Spray Tan

Maintaining your sunkissed glow requires diligent aftercare once you leave the tanning salon. Follow these tips:

Rinse Gently

Lightly rinse with lukewarm water only 4+ hours after your session to remove tacky residue and bronzing agents without stripping the developing DHA color.

Pat Dry and Moisturize

Gently pat skin without rubbing to dry post-rinse. Apply daily moisturizer to counter dryness from DHA without using heavily fragranced lotions that can stain.

Delay Sweating and Swimming

Wait at least 8 hours before heavily sweating at the gym or pools, lakes, oceans to allow spray tan to fully set. Chlorine and saltwater can also fade color quickly without proper sealing beforehand.

Avoid Tight Clothing

Snug garments and accessories will rub against skin and transfer color before your spray tan has time to stabilize and oxidize for longevity. Give it 24 hours before wearing fitted clothes.

The Benefits of Spray Tanning

From preserving a youthful complexion to achieving a sun-kissed California vibe year-round, getting regular spray tans offers immense advantages:

No UV damage or cancer risk unlike tanning outside/beds
Quick, convenient sessions with no soreness or peeling afterwards
Customizable from light beachy to exotic bronzed tones
Affordable with membership packages for regular color upkeep
Long-lasting results that fade flawlessly over a week or more

By providing a healthy alternative to actual sun exposure or UV tanning, spray tans let you achieve beautiful golden skin safely. So skip the tanning bed and book your sunless glow session in San Jose today!

FAQs

Is spray tanning safe during pregnancy?

Yes, DHA spray tanning is considered safe for pregnant women when done at a reputable salon. Always consult your doctor first, but studies show the ingredients don’t absorb into bloodstream or cross placenta.

How long does a spray tan last?

With proper prep and post-tan care, a spray tan can last 5-10 days or more before naturally fading. Exfoliating regularly and building up color with frequent appointments extends wear time.

What if it rains after my spray tan?

Caught in the rain can prematurely fade spray tan results if color hasn’t fully set in first 24 hours. Bring umbrella post-tan and gently pat dry if skin gets wet to minimize damage.

Do you need to shower before a spray tan?

Yes, skin should be freshly cleaned and exfoliated 24 hours pre-tan for best results. Traces of dirt, oil, makeup, perfumes etc. can cause uneven color development from the DHA reaction.

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.