Spray tanning is known by several names including sunless tanning and self-tanning. However, they all mean the same thing: getting a stunning tan from spray applied to the skin. Here are the ins and outs of spray tanning.
Why people get spray tans
There are several reasons that people get a spray tan. One of the main reasons is that you don’t have to sit out in the sun for hours upon hours, weeks upon weeks. With spray tans, you are done in about 4 hours and it will last about a week. Also, spray tans is done with liquid DHA that interacts with the proteins in your skin, so it is better for your skin than the rays of the sun. Lastly, people just like the way that a spray tan looks.
Related: Tanning Do’s and Don’ts
Preparing for a spray tan
Prior to getting a spray tan, there are some things you need to do to get your skin ready, essentially opening the pores in your skin. You will need to shower, exfoliate and shave, which can be done right before your spray tan appointment. Also, spray tans are rather stinky and there is no way to avoid that unfortunately. So be prepared for your skin to be a bit stinky for a minimum of 4 hours and a maximum of 24 hours.
Choosing the right spray tan color
The spray tan color that you ultimately choose will depend on how you want the end results to look. A level one color will provide you with a color that is a shade or two darker than your normal skin tone. It doesn’t matter what type of skin tone you have or how light or dark your skin is, the end results will be one to two shades darker with level one color. A medium (level two) color will provide you with a color that is two to three shades darker than your normal skin tone while a dark (level three) color will provide you with a color that is three to four shades darker than your normal skin tone.
Related: Self-Tanning Lotions That Won’t Turn Your Skin Orange
Spray tan aftercare
After your spray tan, you want to first wash your hands. Don’t worry as they won’t look strangely white but if you don’t wash them, they will look blotchy the next day. Some folks choose to use a baby wipe on their face after the spray tan. This is because the skin on your face is thinner than the rest of your body, so it may appear somewhat darker than you want. You also want to stay out the water for 24 hours so that your tan can develop. Also, avoid the gym as well since sweating can make your tan appear streaky and splotchy.
