Many people want to achieve a healthy glow through tanning. However, it is not always easy to find the time and place to do so. Likewise, tanning can also become unhealthy if not done appropriately, and that’s why many people instead consider spray tans.
Spray tans provide a quick and easy way to get that perfect summer glow. They are also more cost-efficient than traditional sunbeds. On top of that, spray tans have no drawbacks of regular sunlight tanning—no risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and no need for expensive lotions or creams.
It’s easy to see why spray tans are becoming so popular. They offer an affordable way for people to achieve a healthy glow without the hassle and expense associated with other methods.
What Is Spray Tanning?
Spray tanning has become a popular choice for people who want sun-kissed skin all year round. It allows you to achieve an even, natural-looking color in about 10 minutes.
Spray tanning applies a spray-tan solution to the skin and then dry the solution on the skin surface. The solution is applied using a handheld device that sprays a fine mist of water and chemicals onto the skin, which reacts with the proteins on your skin to create an even, natural-looking color. The process takes about 10 minutes, and these services are offered in certain salons and medspas.
The main difference between spray tanning and traditional methods like sunbathing or self-tanners is that spray tanning allows customization. You can customize how dark or light the tanning you want it to be.
How Does It Work?
You may have imagined spray tanning as some like spraying paint at you, but that’s not what is happening. A thin mist will be sprayed at you, but this mist is entirely colorless. So what gives off the color is the chemical solution contacting the amino acids in your skin cells.
Spray tanning uses a chemical compound called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to change your skin color. DHA reacts with the skin’s amino acids to produce a brown-black color. When DHA and amino acids come in contact, they make several shades darker skin tone. The more you apply the solution, the darker the skin tone.
Is It Safe?
While the chemical reaction that changes your skin color within a few minutes may raise some concerns, it’s actually a very safe product to use. There are no known health risks associated with the DHA solution. Plus, DHA has been used for decades already.
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) has also been used in other cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing applications. Unless you have an allergy to DHA, you shouldn’t have any problems.
How Long Does It Last?
Your skin constantly renews itself, especially the epidermis layer, so any skin treatment applied on the skin will eventually fade over time, including spray tan.
Depending on how much spray DHA solution was applied, spray tans will generally last 7-10 days. If you wanted a lighter tanning color, your tan wouldn’t last as long. So if you’re going to sustain a sun-kissed glow, you will need some return visits.
How Spray Tan Is Applied
Most medspas and clinics offer the following options if you decide to get a spray tan:
Spray Tan Booth
Spray tan booths are becoming more popular for people who want a quick and easy way to get a tan without the hassle of going to the beach.
These booths provide a convenient and fast way to get a golden, healthy glow. The process is quick, painless, and inexpensive. They are also known for their convenience, and these days, you can find some of them in malls, shopping centers, airports, and other such locations.
Several outfitted spray nozzles emit the tanning formula solution within these booths. It’s somewhat similar to taking a shower, except you are given specific instructions to follow to ensure an even application throughout the skin. This is the best option if you are willing to prioritize consistent applications and want to be a repeating customer for long-term tanning.
Airbrush Spray Tan
Airbrush Spray Tan is a popular tanning method that uses the airbrush to spray a mixture of air, alcohol, and the DHA solution onto the skin. The solution is mixed with the alcohol to spread more evenly throughout the skin.
This option can be done in the comfort of your home with the help of an airbrush applicator or at salons with the assistance of a professional. The process is relatively easy and takes just minutes to complete.
Although the process is done at home, you can achieve the same level of consistency similar to the tanning booth. You won’t have to worry about uneven blots and inconsistent tan lines, all within your home’s comfort. This is thanks to the expertise of your spray tan provider.
Self Tanning Products
There are many self-tanning products on the market. People use them to get a sun-kissed look without visiting the beach or a local tanning booth. All you have to do is visit a pharmacy, and you can get yourself a self-tanning skincare product.
However, they are very cumbersome to apply evenly, and it takes time and a lot of effort. Perhaps you’ll even need assistance from your friend or loved ones to help you out. You’ll most likely experience an uneven tan through this method.
What To Do Before Spray Tanning
Before you get a spray tan, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are some things to do before your appointment:
- Shower: Wash away any excess oils and sweat from your skin.
- Exfoliate: Remove dead skin cells and dirt that could clog pores and lead to breakouts.
- Shave: Remove unwanted hair from your body, including underarms and legs.
- Waxing or threading: Remove unwanted hair on the face, eyebrows, arms, legs, or anywhere
Following the instructions above will help you achieve a smoother, even, and long–lasting tanning. After your appointment, do not shower for the next 4-8 hours, and do not shower with soap for 24 hours.
Takeaway
If you are interested in spray tans, contact and reach out to our clinic Cheeky Medspa. We offer services that help our clients achieve their ideal aesthetics without the hassle of surgery.
