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First, let me start by saying we are proud of the service we provide. Why? Because at SprayChic that goes well beyond simply applying the spray tan. Our goal is to educate about the science of spray tanning to ensure that you have the best outcome. We want to make certain that you enjoy your SprayChic Airbrush Tan from beginning to end. Following the preparation instructions, the expected lifespan of a spray tan is 5-7 days. So let’s talk about what this entails.
You want an airbrush tan so that you don’t have to apply a sunless tanner at home yourself, right? Some of you may be lucky enough to have a significant other, sister or mom to assist with slathering on the lotion or spray you with the tan-in-a-can. My guess is that most of you are on your own to get that faux glow. If you have considered having a professional spray tan you, make sure you have done the prep. The precision and flawless application are what you’ll find with a custom airbrush tan. You’ll discover why it is so satisfying to get one professionally done.
It may be your first time, or maybe you’ve been getting spray tans since you saw that episode of Friends. You know which one I’m talking about…”I’m an 8!”
Let me put your mind at ease. Spray tanning has evolved over the years! With higher quality solutions, more options, better equipment, and a variety of amenities you will be pleasantly surprised by the difference.
The industry has also advanced by emphasizing the importance of prepping the skin properly before the spray tan appointment. Over the years, we have found that first-time clients typically do the research and follow the “rules” quite well. Now and again, however, this is overlooked. We have also learned that long-time clients realize that the spray tan can look perfectly fine if they don’t do the prep. It’s that one time that their tan didn’t quite turn out how they expected that proves why it’s important to review these tips.
The top layer of the skin is always dying. If you don’t slough off (exfoliate) that top layer of skin 24 hours before the spray tan the tan’s longevity is decreased. The active ingredient in spray tanning solution is DHA (dihydroxyacetone).
DHA interacts with the amino acids in the top layer of the skin and creates a brown hue. This ingredient is actively creating the tan for 24 hours. The DHA development peaks at 8-10 hours after being applied, yet, it continues to work with the skin for up to 24 hours.
Keep in mind that the color that you see immediately after receiving your spray tan is simply a cosmetic bronzer. This bronzer is there temporarily and will rinse off, so don’t be surprised as this is part of the process. Whether you get a regular spray tan or a rapid spray tan, the DHA works the same way. It’s simply the rinsing off timeline that is different. Read more about the difference between these services here.
This doesn’t mean that the tan is going to rub off on your clothing every day. This simply means that we shed our skin every 28 days, so gradually the tan will start to fade between days 5-7. This is why exfoliating the old skin off prior to the spray tan is so important. Being gentle with the skin throughout the week is equally important. Following our maintenance tips will prove to be helpful to ensure a gradual fade. Remember, everyone’s skin is different. Variables like temperature, lifestyle and other products being applied can play a part in the outcome. That’s why it’s important to note that we cater maintenance instructions to each client individually. You may get advice from your best friend on what she did, but we will discuss with you what works best for your situation.
Shaving your legs 24 hours before your spray tan appointment is an important tip. Shaving is a form of exfoliating, but most products used to shave with can create a barrier on the skin. For this reason, it’s best to avoid shaving right before your spray tan appointment. Lotions, deodorant, and makeup are all forms of barriers that won’t allow the DHA to penetrate the skin evenly. We have disposable pre-moistened exfoliating mitts available for purchase for clients that aren’t sure if they exfoliated properly or if they have barriers on the skin.
We not only want you to look good with your spray tan, but we want you to feel good too. It’s disappointing to learn that a client didn’t feel that they had the results they were expecting. Assisting clients with troubleshooting is part of our job too. As you can see from the 1-star review on Yelp below, one of our first-time clients’ tan did not absorb on the lower legs. Highlighting this review is tough, but necessary to emphasize the point.
Read Ilaena M.'s review of SprayChic Airbrush Tanning on Yelp
This blog is to provide deeper insight not to overwhelm. Following the preparation tips on our Preparation page is all you need. Having this additional insight is valuable to you as much as it is to us. We want to continue to provide exceptional service and receive referrals and 5-star reviews. If you are sharing your beauty secret with your friends and family then we are all happy!
The team at SprayChic has tried it all. We have avoided following the prep instructions and our tans were fine. We have gone against all the rules and our tans most certainly didn’t turn us green or make us look like a freak. However, we want to be sure that our clients are fully educated so as to not do something before or after the appointment that would result in a not-so-perfect tan. We would love to hear from you! Troubleshooting with clients has proven to be of value for their future spray tans with us. Comment below and let us know what your spray tan experience has been like.
