Dos and Don’ts of Spray Tanning: A Beginner’s Guide

Spray tanning has become increasingly popular as people seek a safer alternative to sunbathing and traditional tanning beds. It’s a quick and effective way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. However, for beginners, getting a spray tan can be intimidating. To help you start your journey to bronzed perfection, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide of dos and don’ts.

The Dos of Spray Tanning

• Prepare Your Skin Properly
• Do a Patch Test
• Wear the Right Attire
• Follow the Technician’s Instructions
• Protect Your Eyes and Lips
• Be Patient
• Moisturize Daily
• Use a Gradual Tanner for Maintenance
• Exfoliate Before Getting a New Tan

Here is everything you need to know about spray tanning and how to make the most of it. Whether you’re going to Bora Bora or Maldives,   It is the perfect way to get that tan and look like the queen you are.

Do Prepare Your Skin Properly

Preparing your skin before your spray tan appointment is crucial to ensure an even and long-lasting tan. Here’s what you should do:

Exfoliate: Exfoliating your skin a day or two before your appointment helps remove dead skin cells, creating a smooth canvas for the tan to adhere to. Focus on rough skin areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

Shave or Wax: If you want to remove unwanted hair, do so at least 24 hours before your appointment to avoid irritation.

Skip Makeup and Lotions: On the day of your appointment, don’t wear makeup, moisturizer, or any other skincare products, as they can create a barrier that prevents the spray tan from adhering properly.

Do a Patch Test

If you’re trying a new spray tanning product or visiting a new salon, doing a patch test is a good idea. Apply a small amount of the tanning solution to a discreet area of your skin, like your inner arm, and wait to see if any irritation or allergic reactions occur. This step can help you avoid potential skin issues.

Do Wear the Right Attire

On the day of your appointment, wear dark, loose-fitting clothing and flip-flops. This will prevent the tan from transferring onto your clothes and allow your skin to breathe.

Do Follow the Technician’s Instructions

When you arrive for your spray tan appointment, be sure to listen carefully to the technician’s instructions. They will guide you on how to stand, where to place your hands and feet, and when to turn to ensure even coverage.

Do Protect Your Eyes and Lips

Most salons provide disposable hair caps and goggles to protect your eyes during tanning. Additionally, use lip balm to shield your lips from the tanning solution.

Do Be Patient

After your spray tan, avoid showering or sweating for at least 6-8 hours, or as recommended by your technician, to allow the tan to develop fully. It’s best to schedule your appointment in the evening so that you can sleep in the tan without any disturbances.

Do Moisturize Daily

To extend the life of your spray tan, moisturize your skin daily with a hydrating lotion. This will help prevent the tan from fading unevenly and keep your skin looking healthy.

Do Use a Gradual Tanner for Maintenance

Consider using a gradual tanner to maintain your color as your spray tan starts to fade. These products can help you prolong your tan and keep it looking natural.

Do Exfoliate Before Getting a New Tan

When it’s time for your next spray tan, make sure to exfoliate your skin again to remove any remaining color and dead skin cells. This step will ensure an even application and better results.

The Don’ts of Spray Tanning:

• Don’t Overdo It
• Don’t Rush the Process
• Don’t Forget to Protect Your Tan from Water
• Don’t Use Bar Soap
• Don’t Use Oil-Based Products
• Don’t Exfoliate Too Soon
• Don’t Forget Sunscreen
• Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions

Just as there are dos to spray tanning, there are a few don’ts to the process. These steps must be taken to avoid fading your tan and causing an uneven skin tone.

Don’t Overdo It

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is over-tanning. Start with a lighter shade and gradually build up if you desire a darker color. Over-tanning can make your skin look unnatural and orange.

Don’t Rush the Process

Spray tanning is a process that takes time to develop. Avoid showering or sweating too soon after your appointment, as this can cause the tan to streak or wash off prematurely.

Don’t Touch Your Skin

Resist the urge to touch your skin while the tan is developing. Touching your skin can transfer the solution and create uneven patches. You just have to be extra careful the first few days after the tanning session to make the most of your tan.

Don’t Forget to Protect Your Tan from Water

While showering is essential for hygiene, be mindful of the water temperature. Hot showers can strip your tan faster. Use lukewarm water and avoid long baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools during the first few days after your spray tan.

Don’t Use Bar Soap

Bar soap can be harsh on your skin and cause your tan to fade faster. Opt for a gentle, sulfate-free body wash or shower gel instead. There is so much variety in the market when it comes to body washes; you won’t find it a struggle.

Don’t Use Oil-Based Products

Avoid oil-based skincare products and makeup, as they can break down the spray tan and cause it to fade more quickly. Make sure to use the right products to extend the life span of your tan.

Don’t Exfoliate Too Soon

It’s essential to exfoliate before your spray tan, but don’t overdo it. Exfoliating immediately before your appointment can leave your skin sensitive and prone to irritation. It is advised to exfoliate at least a day before your appointment.

Don’t Forget Sunscreen

Even though you have a spray tan, your skin is not immune to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Always wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors to protect your skin from damage.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions

If you have any doubts or questions about the spray tanning process, don’t hesitate to ask your technician. They are there to help and ensure you have a great experience.

Get the Best Spray Tan

In conclusion, spray tanning can be a fantastic way to achieve a beautiful, bronzed look without the risks associated with sun exposure or tanning beds. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure a successful and long-lasting spray tan that leaves you feeling confident and glowing. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless – with time, you’ll become a spray tan pro!