In the UK, spray tans are becoming a more and more popular beauty treatment due to the desire for sun-kissed skin without the negative consequences of UV exposure. Despite the infamously erratic British weather, a professional spray tan is a safe and efficient approach to get that desired healthy glow all year round. From preparation to aftercare, this in-depth guide covers all you need to know about spray tans to make sure your fake glow appears real and lasts as long as possible.
Comprehending Spray Tans
A thin mist of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) solution is applied to the skin as part of a cosmetic process called a spray tan. DHA is a colourless sugar that temporarily darkens the skin by interacting with the amino acids in dead skin cells. A spray tan offers a safer way to get bronzed skin without raising your risk of skin damage or skin cancer, in contrast to the damaging UV rays from the sun or tanning beds.
Whether you choose a full-body treatment or a targeted application, the spray tan procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Either an automated spray booth or a technician’s handheld spray gun are used to apply the solution. With the right maintenance, the effects of a spray tan can last for five to ten days and typically appear within six to twelve hours.
How to Get Ready for a Spray Tan
The secret to a perfect spray tan is preparation. 24 hours prior to your consultation, begin by thoroughly exfoliating your body. Pay close attention to rough spots like the elbows, knees, ankles, and feet because here is where the spray tan solution can build up and make them look darker. Use an exfoliant without oil because oil-containing treatments can form a barrier that hinders the skin’s ability to absorb the spray tan.
Avoid using deodorants, perfumes, cosmetics, or moisturisers the day of your spray tan session since they may prevent your tan from developing evenly. To avoid any potential stains of lighter textiles and to avoid tight clothes that can rub against your freshly applied spray tan, it is recommended that you wear flip-flops and dark, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.
It’s important to talk to your technician about the results you hope to achieve if you’re new to spray tanning. Communicating your preferences can help you get the right effect, whether your goal is a deeper bronze or a delicate glow. To accommodate a range of skin tones and desired results, the majority of salons provide spray tan products in varying intensities.
The Method of Spray Tan
Depending on your comfort level and the tan lines you want, you will either be asked to change into disposable pants or bring your own when you arrive for your spray tan appointment. To entirely avoid tan lines, some people decide to go nude.
To guarantee uniform application of the spray tan solution, the technician will lead you through a variety of positions. Usually, this entails raising the arms over the head, spinning in various directions, and standing with the arms out to the sides. You will receive detailed instructions on how to position yourself during each spray cycle if you are utilising an automated booth.
The majority of formulations contain a guiding colour that provides an instant bronzing effect, and the solution feels cool and slightly moist on the skin. This guide colour guarantees even coverage and makes it easier for the technician to see where the spray tan has been sprayed. It’s crucial to remember that this initial colour is temporary and will disappear after your first shower.
The spray tan solution can be dried with the assistance of a mild fan after application. To avoid streaking or smearing, it is essential to let the spray tan completely dry before dressing. Depending on the particular product being used, your technician will advise you on the best period to wait before taking a shower, which is often between six and twelve hours.
How to Take Care of Your Spray Tan
Taking good care of your spray tan is crucial to extending its lifespan. Before taking a shower, wait for the suggested development time. Then, use lukewarm water and stay away from sulphate-containing soaps, shower gels, and shampoos as these can prematurely remove the spray tan.
Instead of rubbing your skin dry with a towel after taking a shower, pat it dry gently. By keeping your skin hydrated, you can help the spray tan fade more evenly. Use an oil-free moisturiser every day. Swimming in saline water or chlorine pools can hasten the fading process, so stay away from these. Likewise, during the first 24 hours following your spray tan, avoid strenuous physical activity that result in considerable perspiration.
Keep in mind that some activities, such saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, and exfoliation, will accelerate the fading of your spray tan. Depending on how quickly your skin naturally exfoliates, you may want to schedule a follow-up spray tan every 7 to 10 days to keep your shine.
Typical Issues with Spray Tans and Their Fixes
The possibility of an orange or unnatural look is among the most frequent worries regarding spray tans. With today’s spray tan formulas, which are made to complement your natural skin tone to produce a more realistic hue, this problem has become less common. The likelihood of an unattractive result can be considerably decreased by selecting a respectable salon with skilled experts.
Another typical problem is uneven fading, especially around the nose and inner elbows, where the skin naturally folds or produces more oil. This issue can be controlled with frequent moisturising and mild exfoliation a few days following your spray tan.
Before getting a full-body spray tan, people with sensitive skin should ask for a patch test. Although they are uncommon, allergic reactions can happen, especially to people who are sensitive to DHA or other components in the solution.
Considerations for Spray Tans by Season
Spray tans offer a year-round solution for keeping a healthy-looking glow in the UK, where sunshine can be hard to come by. It’s also crucial to moisturise thoroughly before your spray tan appointment and to keep moisturising your skin afterward to avoid spotty fading throughout the colder months when skin tends to be drier.
It’s important to remember to wear sunscreen in the summer, even if you have a spray tan. There is a widespread misperception that a spray tan offers UV protection, however this is untrue. Even if you have a spray tan, you should always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen when you’re outside.
In conclusion
Without the dangers of UV exposure, a spray tan provides a safe and efficient method to look sun-kissed. A spray tan can give you a natural-looking glow that improves your appearance and increases your self-confidence if you prepare, apply, and take care of it properly. You can get the advantages of a spray tan without compromising the integrity and health of your skin if you comprehend the procedure and adhere to the advice in this article. A professional spray tan is a flexible cosmetic treatment that works for all skin types and tones, whether you’re getting ready for a special event or just want to keep your glow throughout the year.