A perfectly tanned complexion has a way of making everything look better. Your skin takes on a healthy glow, your outfits seem more flattering, and the compliments start rolling in. It’s easy to see the appeal.
The problem is that achieving that glow through direct sun exposure comes at a cost. Prolonged time in the sun accelerates skin aging (fine lines, uneven texture, and dark spots) and significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Every extra hour spent baking on the beach adds up, even if the damage isn’t immediately visible.
The good news is that you don’t have to choose between looking radiant and protecting your skin. Spray tanning offers a safe, effective way to achieve that just-returned-from-the-Caribbean bronze, without the UV exposure. And, if you follow our tips, no one will be able to tell the difference.
1. The 24-Hour Pore Closure Rule
Most people shave or wax right before their appointment. This is a mistake. Hair removal opens your pores and creates micro-tears in the skin. If you apply tan immediately, the DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) settles into open pores, creating a polka-dot effect, also known as the strawberry skin.
So, make sure to complete all hair removal at least 24 hours before your tan to allow pores to close and the skin’s mantle to stabilize.
2. Exfoliate and Balance
Exfoliating is recommended because it removes excess oils and scrub residue that can otherwise act as a barrier to the tanning solution. However, avoid exfoliating on the day of your tanning.
The DHA in spray tan solution reacts with the amino acids in your skin, and exfoliation right before a tan can strip away too many of these acids, leading to a lighter or uneven tan. You’ll need at least 12 hours to allow your skin’s surface chemistry to stabilize.
Also, avoid using creamy body washes, bar soaps with high sodium tallowate content (e.g., Dove), and glycolic or salicylic acid washes for 48 hours before your session. These can alter your skin’s pH and cause the tan to pull orange.
Specialists recommend a pH-balanced cleanser or a simple transparent gel soap.
3. The Application Method Matters
If this is your first time spray tanning, it’s best to go to a professional tanning salon. There, a trained technician using a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) turbine and a spray gun, will manually airbrush your body to make sure everything looks just right.
If you’ve already discovered your favorite nuance and know how to apply everything right, you can try it at home. However, it’s still best to use a spray tan machine for flawless results. Home aerosols tend to lose pressure as the can empties, leading to large droplets that cause spotting.
A machine applies a uniform mist that settles onto the skin without disturbing the surface. This ensures that every square millimeter of skin receives the exact same amount of DHA, which doesn’t happen if you’re using lotions or mousses.
4. Respect the Development Time
The first 4 to 8 hours of development are volatile. Try to sweat as little as possible during this time, and only wear loose (preferably oversized) clothes you don’t mind getting stained. Tight clothes like leggings or a bra are a big no-no.
Extra tip: If you tend to sweat in your sleep, spread a light dusting of talc-free baby powder in your inner elbows and behind the knees.
5. The First Shower
After you went through all the trouble of prep, spray tan, and development, do not ruin everything by making your first shower hot and soapy. High heat can strip the tan while it’s still settling into the epidermis, leading to a patchy fade-out.
Your first shower should be a lukewarm-to-cool water rinse only. No loofahs, no soap. Rinse until the water runs clear. Pat dry (never rub!) with a towel. Wait another 12 hours before using any moisturizer to let the color fully oxidize.
Finally, just because you’re now tanned, it doesn’t mean you don’t need adequate skincare to keep you safe from the sun. Keep using sunscreen when you’re out in the sun and always moisturize. This is true for both summer and winter!
Get Ready to Glow
There you have it: five tips to make your spray tan a pleasant experience each time. It may be a bit of work, but the final results are worth the effort.
So go ahead: plan your session, trust the process, and step into that gorgeous glow with confidence. Your perfect tan is just a few simple steps away!
