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Spray Tanning Frequently Asked Questions

Spray Tanning Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Article by All Things Tanning

IS SPRAY TANNING SAFE?

Yes. Spray tanning is the safest alternative to obtaining a gorgeous tan without the damaging and aging UVA/UVB rays of the sun. Ask about the solutions used when booking your spray tan appointment – choose Salons/Services who use spray tanning solutions which are Natural and Organic based, and contain NO harsh chemicals, NO Parabens, and NO Alcohol.

I HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN, CAN I STILL BE SPRAYED?

Yes. Natural/Botanical based spray tan solutions are gentle to sensitive skin. Spray tans may be the perfect choice for those who wish to conceal skin imperfections, freckles, age spots, cellulite, vitiligo, stretch marks, or fair skin types to create a healthier looking complexion. If you have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis it is best to patch test the skin first.

CAN PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING WOMEN BE SPRAYED?

Yes. Testing has shown that DHA (Dihydroxyacetone – derived from sugar cane) does not penetrate the skin, nor enter the bloodstream, therefore it appears to be safe for pregnant women, however if concerned we suggest you seek advice from your doctor. Your tanning technician should be able to provide disposable face masks/nose filters if you request them. Nipples can also be covered during the spray tanning session for breastfeeding women, and you should make sure nipples are wiped clean before breastfeeding bub.

DO I HAVE TO TAKE ALL MY CLOTHES OFF?

Absolutely not. This is a personal choice. You may wear whatever you feel comfortable in during your session – bikini – g-string – underwear – naked if you wish. If you choose to wear any of the above we recommend darker coloured items are worn (during and after your tanning session) until your first shower, or alternatively ask for a disposable g-string from your tanning technician.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BE SPRAYED?

Salon Service

It takes 10 minutes to apply a full body spray tan.

Mobile Service

You will need to allow approximately 20-30 minutes for a full Mobile Spray Tanning appointment.

This includes;

  • A professional spray tanning technician travelling to your home or workplace at a time to suit you
  • Setting up a private and hygienic, mess-free tanning tent, and mobile tanning equipment
  • Applying a premium barrier cream to areas susceptible to extra darkening (if required) such as hands – elbows – knees – feet
  • Providing disposable hair protection, g-string, nose filters or face mask (if required)
  • Spraying 1-2 full body coats of the colour chosen by you during consultation with your technician
  • A complete check over before finishing and packing up

DOES THE SPRAY TAN GET APPLIED TO THE FACE?

Yes. We advise the spray tan be applied to the face as it helps your tan look more natural and blends it with the body. The face fades more quickly than the rest of the body, so you may need to top up with a gradual tanner or bronzer.

WILL I GO ORANGE?

Absolutely not if you choose your Salon/Service wisely! As recommended at the beginning of this article, ask about the solutions used when booking your spray tan appointment, and choose those which are reputable premium brands with proven natural looking colour results. These solutions will contain the highest grade of DHA available and come in many different shades to suit all skin types – from a light natural sun kissed glow, to a deeper tropical holiday tan.

CAN I WEAR MAKEUP?

Yes. Wearing makeup is fine, however do not wash your face for the first 2-8 hours after your spray tan, (depending on instructions by the brand of tanning solution used), as water stops the development process. If you need to wear makeup during your tanning session we suggest you still have a light spray over the face – or ideally you can have your spray tan fresh faced and do your hair and makeup after your first shower.

WHAT CLOTHES SHOULD I WEAR AFTER MY SPRAY TANNING SESSION?

We advise you wear loose dark clothing after your spray tan. Cotton fabrics are the best choice as you may get a little surface bronzer transfer on them and it will wash out. Synthetics, silk or rayon may need to be dry cleaned. Also for females we recommend you don’t wear a bra as it may rub and remove some of the tan – one of the benefits of having a convenient Mobile Tanning appointment in the comfort of your own home.

CAN I BE SPRAYED TWICE IN THE SAME DAY?

Yes. You can shower just 2 hours after your spray tan with many of the latest solutions available, therefore, you can repeat and build up your spray tan colour by tanning several times throughout the day. This however may be very drying on the skin so you will need to moisturise twice a day afterwards to keep the colour looking even – very dark colours are much harder to maintain and more obvious once they start to fade or patch off.

DOES THE DEVELOPING PROCESS CONTINUE AFTER I HAVE A SHOWER?

Yes. You will continue to develop a deeper, darker tan long after you have showered, for 12-24 hours.

DURING MY FIRST SHOWER I NOTICED SOME COLOUR WASHING AWAY?

Yes the colour washing away is the instant bronzer, and that is normal. Your spray tan colour will continue to deepen and darken on your skin, but no more having to wear the bronzer to bed with the new ‘rapid tans’ allowing for early wash off of the surface bronzers. You will be fresh when you hit the pillow the night of your tan, and you will awaken with a gorgeous tan and clean sheets the next day.

HOW LONG WILL MY SPRAY TAN LAST?

Depending on your skin type, pre-tan preparation, and after-tan care, a professionally applied spray tan will last up to 10 days. As the skin cells naturally exfoliate off so does the tan. Keeping your skin well moisturised will prolong the life of your tan. Invest in a good quality gradual tanner+moisturiser to lengthen the life of your tan even further.

ONCE I HAVE A SPRAY TAN DO I STILL NEED TO WEAR SUNSCREEN?

Yes! You must still protect your skin when outdoors by applying a non-oily sunscreen to the face and body, as spray tanning solution does not protect your skin against UV rays.

DO HOT TUBS AND SWIMMING POOLS AFFECT A SPRAY TAN?

A spray tan will not be as long lasting if you are soaking for long periods of time in hot or cold water, as this makes the skin cells exfoliate rapidly, and therefore the spray tan is removed more quickly.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS…

No heavy exercising (or washing up dishes) for 2-8* hours following your spray tan session, while the spray tanning solution develops! It is imperative not to get your spray tan wet before 2-8* hours to ensure full, even development occurs.

(*As advised by your tanning technician and the brand of solution used).

Spray Tanning Frequently Asked Questions
Makeup: Emma Fardy | Photographer: Ben Scott | Swimwear: Pallas Swimwear. Kelly Webster is wearing Magic Bronze Sunless Spray Tan and Magic Bronze Raspberry & Vanilla Body Shimmer.

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