Few things have the beautifying effect associated with the golden glow of a tan. But given the scary stats on sun exposure, a spray tan is a healthier and safer option. For those who have never ventured into a tanning salon, there are a few must-do rules to ensure you achieve a long-lasting tan with a beautiful fade.
First of all ensure you remove all makeup and any deodorant, which may act as a barrier to the fake tan formula. Before she starts, the therapist may ask you “how deep” you want to go. This is your chance to explain what result you want to achieve in terms of colour. It also helps for them to know the occasion your spray tan is for, i.e. if it’s a two-week holiday you may want to go a deeper shade so it lasts longer, or if it’s for a wedding the very next day, you may want to stay lighter so it will appear as natural as possible.
The therapist may ask you to stand a certain way, such as “left arm up, right arm forwards while you bend your knees” as this will ensure the spray tan will be as streak-free as possible, with the best coverage. When you’re dry you can get dressed, ideally in loose, dark clothing and nothing that may rub the tan off, such as tight jeans or shoes. You may smell a little bit like malty biscuits but the latest generation of spray tans are not anything as potent as those of the past. Apply perfume to your clothes, not your skin, if you want to disguise it. In general, you can shower after 6-8 hours, or less if you have a tan with an ‘express’ formula – and be aware that if you’re planning on washing it off the next morning you may not want to sleep on white bedsheets as they may be stained!
For the longest-lasting result and an even fade, be sure to apply moisturizer (use one recommended by the spray tanner) after your shower.
If you want to look more glamorous, as well as thinner and healthier, why not book this in-salon pick-me-up, particularly with party season just around the corner!