9 Things to Know Before Getting Your First Spray Tan
Hot weather equates to less clothing, which means more skin on display. This is the time to get a fake tan. DIY tanners can be effective if you’re okay with the risk of turning orange. If this is your first time getting a spray tan, you are highly recommended to go to a reputable tanning salon like BR SunSpa.
Here are 9 things to know before getting your first spray tan – either via DIY or in a tanning salon with professional tanning solutions.
Try a Self-tanner
Focus on your face or a specific body part to perfect the application. If you like the results, then you can go for the whole-body tan. Self-tanner application usually lasts up to two weeks before fading.
Shower and Exfoliate First
Use a body scrub to remove dry, flaky skin and soften dry patches, so the tan will adhere smoothly. Do not use body oil or lotion before your tanning session since it may cause blemishes and prevent the tan from developing. Remove your makeup and deodorant, which may act as a barrier to the spray tan formula.
Wax or Shave Everywhere in the Evening Before Your Tanning Session
The slightest amount of stubble can leave you with tiny dots of tanner. Shaving can also be a form of exfoliation to remove skin cells and hair, which can block the spray tan.
Choose Your Undergarments
It’s best to go nude to avoid tan lines. However, if you’re uncomfortable, wear pieces that can be discarded after the session. Remove all jewelry, too. The pigment may stain your jewels and give you a tan line. Try to look for disposable pants or a thong that you can wear going home. Wear a hairnet to protect your hair and ears.
Wear Nail Polish
The polish will protect your nails from the professional tanning solution.
Apply Barrier Cream
Put on a barrier cream to your elbows, ankles, and knees, which are the drier areas of the skin. They will absorb more color and might go too dark after tanning.
Pat Your Skin Dry
You can shower after six to eight hours. Do not rub your skin after tanning. This means no exfoliation, loofahs, or washcloths while the tan is present. After the session, wear loose, dark clothing. Your clothes should not rub the tan off.
Trial and Error
Spray tans leave behind a color that slowly diminishes as your skin renews, so you can’t just scrub it off. If you want to remove your tan, gently exfoliate your skin with a self-tan removing mitt. There are self-tanner remover products that you can use as well.
Moisturize daily
Hydration is the best way for your tan to last longer. Moisturize two or three days before the tanning session, but not immediately before. Moisturizers block the color from penetrating the skin. After the appointment, moisturizing should be done regularly to prolong the tan.
The Tanning Effect is More Gradual Than Instantaneous
Spray tans get darker as the days go by. The color takes some time to develop. Don’t make plans after the session. You have to wait a minimum of five hours before you can shower. Your skin will still look darker, and you will still smell like a lima bean. It’s best to wait at least 24 hours before washing the skin or sweating heavily. So, no workouts as well.
At BR SunSpa, you can get the shade you want with their Sunless Spray Tanning. You get natural-looking results perfectly matched to your skin tone with just one visit. Your spray tan develops in four-six hours and can last up to 7 days. You may set up an appointment here.
