How does a spray tan work?

Did you know that spray tans are a great alternative to sunbathing and tanning beds?

This sunless method helps avoid serious damage, preventing you from developing wrinkles, sunspots, or dry, leathery textured skin. Most importantly, you’re not exposing your skin to direct UV light, which increases your chances of developing skin cancer.

Now, you may be wondering if a spray tan can deliver the same results as sunbathing or tanning beds. Good question! Let’s walk through how spray tanning works to achieve that ultimate beachy, sun-kissed glow.

What is a spray tan?

A spray tan is a sunless tanning method where a fine mist is sprayed onto the body. This low-pressure spraying mist contains an important chemical called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that’s absorbed into the top layer of skin cells, causing a chemical reaction that darkens your skin. The best part: this coloration process is safe, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for external use.

How does spray tanning work?

There are several different ways you can receive a spray tan. Some salons offer the option to be sprayed in a booth, where you strip down and a fine mist is applied around your bottom. Other places will have services available where an experienced salon specialist will apply the spray tan using an airbrush tool. This could be beneficial if you have very pale skin and need color in specific areas. It could also be desirable if you’re using a spray tan to define and sculpt certain muscles through the specific placement of your tanner.

Here, at Jean Paul Spa and Salons, we have a state-of-the-art tanning machine that applies an even, immediate, luxurious, and rich tan that lasts. We prefer using a high-quality spray tanning booth, as it gives you more privacy and the perfect color every time. Like the spray tan technician method, we can help people of various skin tones get the perfect, most natural color for them.

Why is a spray tan better than a self-tanner?

A spray tan is better than a self-tanner for one major reason: it’s a quick and easy way to get an even, full-body tan. If you choose to manually apply a self-tanner, there’s more room for error, whether that be missing a spot, having dry spots appear darker, or streaking. If you’re new to sunless tanning, we suggest going to a salon instead of applying at home, especially if you’re attending an event.

Here are some major benefits of a spray tan that you can expect to see:

• A natural and streak-free glow: We’ve all seen a bad DIY tan. Whether that is because of the tanning formula or inexperience, the result is not what you had hoped for. Instead, a spray tan booth will give you a 100% natural and evenly blended bronze.
• Boosted confidence: A perfectly blended and beach-bronzed body will do wonders for your confidence. Trust us, a little color will make you feel healthier and more attractive.
• Customizable color: Self-tanners don’t work the same for everyone, so you never truly know how your color will develop unless you do a patch test. At Jean Paul Spa and Salons, we can help you choose your perfect shade. From extremely pale to darker skin tones, we’ll help you figure out what color you want. Keeping your idea in mind, we’ll recommend the perfect product to achieve your gentle glow or bold bronze.
• Time-saving and instant: You’ll step out of Jean Paul Spa and Salons with instant color! It only takes a few minutes to provide long-lasting and stunning results.

What can I expect during my first spray tan?

Before you receive a spray tan, we recommend taking the following approach so you can achieve the most perfect application and color.

Two to three days before your appointment

There are two big things to do two to three days prior to your appointment. First, we suggest moisturizing to ensure your skin is healthy. Next, make sure to shave your legs three days before your appointment. We suggest three days because shaving two days prior to your appointment can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Preparation before is just as important as recovery after. Do not immediately shave after your spray tan, as it will remove the color and cause it to fade faster.

The day of your appointment

We suggest you exfoliate your skin to get rid of dead skin and dry patches. To get the smoothest surface for your tan, apply your exfoliating product in circular motions all over your body. It’s also key to paint your nails, even if it’s a clear coat. This will help to prevent your nails from staining with the tanner formula. Also, be sure to wear dark clothes so your light clothing doesn’t become discolored.

Ready to book your spray tan: Contact us!

If you’re ready to achieve a healthy, bronzed glow, contact us. We’re more than happy to walk you through what you need to know or any questions you may have, especially if this is your first time receiving a spray tan. Together, let’s help you achieve the shade of your dreams.