Salon Spray Tans – What to expect

Article by BR Tabatha

Winter is all about faking it - But we know some of you are still nervous about taking the plunge!  So instead of avoiding it at least give a professional the chance to show you just how amazing faking it is.  I caught up with Beauty Review's resident Beauty Therapist Zoe to find out what to expect from a salon spray tan - and how to get the best out of one.

Before you go to your tanning session:

• Prepare your skin by waxing, epilating or shaving unwanted body hair 24 hours before you go for your tan.
• Exfoliate your body with a sugar or salt scrub to remove dry or flaking skin.
• On the day of your tan shower with a gentle body wash to remove any remaining products.
• Avoid using moisturiser or any body products, except on areas of extreme dryness, such as elbows and knees.  This should help prevent any colour build up.
• Don't wear deodorant or makeup.
• Remove jewellery.

Things to take with you:

• Hair ties / grips
• Loose fitting clothes - go for old clothes and definitely don't wear white!
• Lip Balm
• Umbrella (just in case it rains)
• A towel for you car seat if you're wearing shorts or a skirt.

When you're at the salon:

• Arrive a little early, especially if it's your first time at the salon.  Most establishments will want you to fill out a client form.
• Together with your technician decide the best shade for you.
• Remove your contact lenses!
• Tie your hair back and if offered a hair net, wear it.  (We know, it's a glamourous business)
• Apply lip balm to your lips and you might want to apply a little to your hair line.  It'll be easy to simply wipe the tanning solution away afterwards.
• You'll be offered a disposable g-string to wear, but most technicians will be comfortable if you choose to go naked.  They're really not going to see much either way!
• Your tech may use a tan preparation spray to remove any product residue or perspiration.
• The salon should also apply a barrier cream to areas such as your elbows, knees, hands, feet to prevent unwanted discolouration.
• Listen to your technician while she sprays you! She might ask you to turn or lift your arms / bend slightly.  She's only trying to get an even coverage.

After your spray tan:

• Wait at least 10 minutes before getting dressed to let your tan dry.
• Use the provided wipes to clean your hands and don't forget to remove the lip balm from your lips.
• Avoid water, exercise and anything that makes you sweat for at least 8 hours.
• Don't use anything 'scubby' like a wash cloth or washing net during the first shower; just a gentle body wash.  Pat dry.
• Don't stress if you see colour washing away - that'll be the 'colour guide' that is a bit like instant tan and allows the tech to see where she's sprayed.
• Keep moisturised and consider using a tan extender.

Zoe's top tips for a salon spray tan:

1. Think of it as a team effort - do your part by exfoliating and shaving the day before your spray tanning session.
2. Don't be shy - seriously my top two salon treatments are Brazilians and spray tans.  Lady parts, schmady parts.
3. When in doubt about which shade to choose, opt for the lighter.  You can always go darker next time.

Do you regularly opt for a salon spray tan?  Or is it something you want to do, but haven't been ready to take the leap yet? Share your thoughts below!