Things to KnowThings to Know
About Spray Tans
How does it work? The active ingredient in the tanning solution is a derivative of sugar beets. It's completely organic. There are no chemicals in the tanning solution. The active ingredient must sit on your skin for 6 to 8 hours and react with your skin to give it the color you want. During this critical 6-8 hour period, it is important to avoid water, avoid strenuous exercise (no sweating), and avoid wearing tight clothing. If something is rubbing on your skin shortly after you've been sprayed, it can leave a mark that you'll see the next day (e.g. a tight bra).
How long does it last? The duration of your tan is directly related to the natural rate of your skin's exfoliation. Everyday, as skin cells fall off your body, the tan fades a little bit. For most people the tan looks great for 5 or 6 days and then starts to fade.
What to do before getting tanned? You can help make the tan last longer by exfoliating yourself. For example, on the day you're going to be tanned you can get in the shower that morning and be aggressive with a washcloth or a loofah and force your skin to exfoliate. This is also the best time to shave your legs. That way your skin will exfoliate less during the next several days. Also, when you get out of the shower that morning DO NOT put on any body lotions, moisturizers or creams. Some of these products can act as a barrier to the active ingredient in the tanning solution.
What happens when I get tanned? The tanning technician has a machine that comes out through a hose to an instrument that she holds in her hand. It looks like a spray gun.
She goes over your body in sections. For example, she will spray one leg, then the other and will ask you to move your body slightly as she goes. The tanning solution is very fast-drying and when she finishes (about 15 minutes) you are dry and ready to get dressed.
Will I look tan immediately? Yes. In addition to the active ingredient (which has no natural color), the tanning solution has a "bronzer" - a temporary coloring agent that makes you look tan immediately. It also helps the technician apply the solution evenly across your body. This bronzer washes off the next time you take a shower. Hopefully, 8 or more hours later, when you take a shower, the bronzer washes off, but now, underneath, your skin is tan.
What do I wear when I get tanned? Most women wear a bikini bottom or panties, but some prefer complete nudity. Tops are optional. We have clients who wear one-piece bathing suits or shorts and a tube top. Whatever level of disrobing you are comfortable with is fine. The solution washes out of most fabrics except silk and leather so choose something dark and washable. We also have disposable paper thongs available. Men wear underwear, bathing suits, or we provide a “pouch” which allows the backside to be tanned. Disposable paper thongs are also available.
What do I wear after I get tanned? Loose, dark clothing is best. Avoid tight undergarments, or a tight T-shirt and jeans. During the warmer months clients usually leave their tanning session wearing a sundress or beach cover-up. Loose sweat pants and a button-up shirt work great, too.
Spray Tans on Dancing With The Stars - Video Below