How Does Spray Tanning Work At A Salon
With the sun's harmful rays constantly putting our skin at risk, more and more people are turning to spray tanning as a way to achieve that golden glow without the damage. But how exactly does spray tanning work at a salon? In this article, we'll delve deeper into the process so you can understand the science behind it all.
What is Spray Tanning?
Spray tanning is a type of cosmetic treatment that involves spraying a fine mist of tanning solution onto the skin. This solution contains a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which reacts with the amino acids in the skin's surface to produce a golden-brown pigment known as melanoidins. The result is a temporary tan that can last anywhere from 5-10 days.
While there are many at-home spray tanning kits available on the market, going to a salon to get a spray tan offers several benefits. For one, professional spray tanners have access to advanced equipment and high-quality solutions that provide a more even and natural-looking tan.
Preparing for Your Spray Tan
Before heading to the salon for your spray tan, there are a few things you need to do to prepare your skin. This includes exfoliating your skin with a gentle scrub to remove any dead skin cells, shaving or waxing at least 24 hours before your appointment, and avoiding the use of any moisturizers, deodorants, or makeup on the day of your appointment.
It's also important to wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment to avoid any staining from the tanning solution. Many salons also provide disposable underwear or suggest wearing old underwear to avoid staining your own.
The Spray Tanning Process
Once you arrive at the salon, the spray tanning technician will begin by asking you to remove any clothing that you would like to be tanned. You will then stand in a private area or inside a tanning booth while the technician applies the tanning solution.
The technician will use a handheld spray gun or a machine that distributes the tanning solution through a series of nozzles. They will carefully spray the solution onto your skin, ensuring that it is applied evenly and without any streaks. They may also use a small brush to blend the solution into certain areas, such as the hands, feet and around the face.
During the application process, the technician will typically ask you to turn in different directions to ensure that all areas of your body are evenly coated. The entire process usually takes around 15-20 minutes, after which you will be asked to wait for the solution to dry completely before getting dressed.
After Your Spray Tan
After your spray tan, it's important to avoid showering or getting wet for at least 8-12 hours to allow the tanning solution to fully develop. You should also avoid tight clothing and sweat-inducing activities, as these can cause the tanning solution to rub off or develop unevenly.
Once your tan has fully developed, you can shower and resume your normal activities. However, it's important to remember that spray tans are temporary and will fade over time. To maintain your tan, you may need to schedule regular appointments with your spray tanning technician or invest in at-home products to extend the life of your tan.
Conclusion
Spray tanning is a great option for achieving that sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. By understanding how the process works and properly preparing your skin, you can achieve a natural-looking tan that lasts for days. So why not take a trip to your local salon and give spray tanning a try?
