Prepare Your Skin for Spray Tan
Recently, more research has been published regarding the dangers of exposing one's skin to UV light. Those who still want that tanned look without exposing themselves to the damaging rays of the sun can take advantage of the development and improvement of spray tan technology. Understanding how to prepare your skin for spray tan ensures an even color on your skin.
Contents
Steps
- Exfoliate your body.
- This is perhaps one of the most important first steps when it comes to preparing your skin for a spray tan. Dry, rough patches of skin tend to attract and hold more color than skin which is smooth and soft. Failing to exfoliate before spray tanning can result, therefore, in blotchy patches of dye on your elbows, knees, and other rough areas.
- Use a loofah or other type of exfoliating tool to scrub your entire body. A body scrub with sea salt or other exfoliating products also provides the optimum results.
- Shave unwanted hair.
- While excessive body hair will not impair the ability of the spray tan to stick to your skin, shaving soon after receiving a spray tan can be detrimental. In fact, shaving soon after this procedure often results in the color flaking off from your skin. As spray tans can be quite expensive, most individuals who receive them want to ensure their longevity.
- Avoid lotions, creams, deodorant, or other personal hygiene items that could interfere with the spray tan adhering to the skin.
- Many women and men enjoy applying lotion or moisturizer to their face and body to ensure soft, supple skin. To ensure the best results during a spray tan, refrain from using skin lotions and moisturizers until after having the spray tan done as these lotions often block the spray tan from sticking to your skin. The same applies to products like antiperspirant, deodorant, make-up, perfume, or powder as they too can block the adherence of the spray tan to your skin, resulting in blotchy coloration.
- Bring the proper clothes.
- The spray tanning solution is likely to remain damp for awhile after you exit the tanning booth. While some individuals would prefer to remain in the nude until the solution dries completely, this is not an option for all. To prevent the solution from rubbing off onto your clothing, bring a selection of T-shirts and pants which are as loose as possible. In addition, as some brands of spray tan can stain clothing, consider bringing clothing which is black or another dark color.
Tips
- Make sure you spread your toes and fingers , while getting a spray tan.
- Women with long hair who are receiving a spray tan should consider placing it in a bun or ponytail before the start of the tan. Leaving your hair down during the tan application process can inhibit the color from reaching the back of your neck and upper shoulders. Some spray tan salons may provide a hairnet to keep your hair in place during this process.
- During exfoliation, pay extra attention to the skin of your palms and feet. These areas are often especially dry, and can attract excessive color.
Warnings
- Some individuals with sensitive skin may develop an allergy to the chemicals found in spray tanning solution. Always be aware of any red bumps, swelling, or itching that develops after a spray tan. If these skin issues persist, you may want to seek medical attention to prevent serious complications.
