GOT QUESTIONS BABE?
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It doesn’t matter whether you’re a regular spray tanner or you’re a first timer. Your at home preparation is just as important as the application process.
The better your skin is prepped, the better the end result.
It is the greatest honour to be considered to play a part in your special day or your weekly confidence boost! I have been spray tanning professionally for 16 years now. So, rest assured you are in great hands.
You needn’t be nervous or shy, I have a body too just like you!
Grab a glass of wine & a little snack and let’s get started..
The most important step in your spray tan prep is exfoliation. The reason we exfoliate our skin is to get rid of dead skin cells resulting in bringing the fresh new skin to the surface. Think of this step as priming a DIY project you intend to paint. It gives you a clean and even canvas.
Dead skin cells often present as dry skin which the spray tan solution can cling to. This could mean that you may end up with a patchy, uneven tan (and neither of us want that!).
Exfoliating your skin will also prolong the colour on your skin, and who doesn’t love value for your money?
Okay, so now you know why you have to exfoliate, so lets get onto the when.
At least 24 hours before your spray tan appointment you should be thoroughly exfoliating your skin. This is also when you should be doing your hair removal process (shaving/waxing/hair removal cream/laser).
Wait!
Did she say hair removal the day/night before??
Yes! Let’s chat about the why..
Doing your hair removal service on the day of your tan (especially right before), can result in an uneven spray tan. Certain razors often have a strip of soap at the top of the razors that can leave a film on your skin. Film on your skin = spray tan solution unable to properly adhere to your skin. Also, hair removal can sometimes irritate your skin and doing that right before a spray tan can further the irritation your skin may experience.
Eyebrow tinting is to be done at least 24hrs PRIOR to your appointment.
If washing your hair before your appointment make sure you exfoliate after these activities to ensure any conditioner and/or moisturiser is completely removed.
Use a body wash that is not highly perfumed and make sure all soap is removed from your skin.
After your last shower before your appointment only apply moisturiser to your ankles, elbows and knees (or any really dry areas of your body). Moisturiser will act as a barrier and should stop the tan from clinging to these dry areas. Avoid deodorant as it will react will the spray tan solution and turn your underarms green. Although it does wash away, no one needs to be living their best Shrek fantasy right after a spray tan!
Have your last shower AT LEAST 3hrs before your tan (if possible). Showering too close to your tan can stop your tan from absorbing properly as there will still be moisture in the skin. The longer between your shower and appointment the better to allow your skin to dry out.
What you wear during your appointment is up to you. You can wear your own swimwear, underwear, a disposable g-string (don’t worry - I can provide that), or you’re welcome to go nude. Just remember that what ever you have on, is what tan line you will have after.
Breastfeeding mums might like to wear a small strapless bra or apply their own nipple covers.
Get some dark, loose-fitting clothing to change into at the end of your tan. Tanning solutions wash out of most clothes very easily but may stain some materials.
PRE - TAN PREP
Okay great, so now you know how to prep your skin! Now let’s chat about the next steps.
POST - TAN
Gone are the days of needing to sleep in your spray tan, the fan/aircon on full blast and the strict instructions to your partner not to even LOOK in your direction. These days, there are amazing professional solutions that develop in as little as 15 minutes. Yes mums - you can still get a spray tan even though you have kids!
We will go over all of the solutions available at your appointment and choose what best works for your skin tone, skin’s condition and requested depth of colour together!
YOUR FIRST SHOWER
The development time told to you at the time of your appointment should be strictly adhered to. When spray tans are left on for longer than the manufacturers & spray tan technician guides, they will over process and distort the end result. Sometimes, an over developed tan will be harder to get off as it will have clung to your skin like a stage 10 clinger.
Your first shower post spray tan should be more of a quick rinse, in lukewarm water. This is to simply stop the spray tan from further developing.
Do not use any soap for your initial shower, use your hands to push the water over your body. You will see what’s called the colour guard rinsing off. This is completely normal - don’t freak out! Once the water has run clear, you’re good to get out of the shower.
Pat yourself dry, no excessive rubbing with your towel.
If you can, avoid moisturising straight after the shower. Although moisturiser can extend the longevity of your tan, it can also initially act as a barrier to stop the spray tan from fully developing.
After 12 hours, you can moisturise as normal.
MAINTAINING YOUR SPRAY TAN
Moisturise your skin to prolong your tan. I recommend moisturisers that don’t contain heavy fragrance. That or a tan extender is best!
Avoid harsh products such as exfoliants & body scrubs as they can accelerate the fading process of your tan. Opt for gentle, non-abrasive products when cleansing and moisturising your skin.
I am not going to tell you not to thoroughly enjoy your holiday and limit your swimming for the sake of your tan but, it is important to remember that chlorinated water will cause your tan to fade faster. If you are getting your spray tan for a special event, leave the swimming until after (if you can).
REMOVING YOUR SPRAY TAN
My personal preference is to use a tan remover such as Bellabronze Gel Tan remover. Simply apply to your whole body, wait 10 minutes and jump into the shower. Use an exfoliating glove such as Bondi Sands tan remover glove. If you have some stubborn tan, repeat this process over 2 days.
If you’ve gotten to the end of this essay, well done!~ If I still haven’t answered your question please don’t hesitate to reach out to me via phone/email.
Chelsea xx