Spray tans are a form of sunless tanning that can give the skin a deep, lustrous hue that lasts several days. This tanning solution can be applied all over the body and is popularly sought after by clients who want a summer glow. Often, many consider this treatment to prepare for weddings and dates, while some use it to achieve a bikini-ready complexion for occasions such as photoshoots and beach parties.
On average, spray tans can last up to 10 days, though the darkness of the shade can also influence their longevity. For instance, lighter shades can take up to five days before the color starts fading, while medium shades can retain color until eight days. Dark shades, on the other hand, can last up to 10 days with proper care and maintenance. Also, the preparation done before a spray tan session plays a vital role in prolonging the lifespan of the tan.
While spray tanning offers a convenient solution for those who want a summer-ready look and glowing tan, some have a few concerns about its effect on their health. To counter this, many skin experts attest to this beauty treatment's safety for the skin and health in general.
If you're thinking about getting a spray tan and wondering if it's harmful to your health, here are some insights you may find helpful:
How Spray Tans Work
When getting a spray tan, you'll be asked by the attendant or the tanning specialist to remove your clothing before entering the tanning booth. Once ready, they will coat your skin with the tanning solution using a professional spray tan machine that gently sprays the liquid per section. There are also spray tan salons with several booths with built-in jets that automatically spray the tanning solution to the client.
Spray Tanning Product Safety
In general, spray tan solutions contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA) as the main ingredient. This substance is plant-derived and has a natural effect that can make the skin look darker upon application. And the more DHA you spray and apply to your skin, the darker your skin can be.
When used accordingly, it's considered generally safe for external use. However, you'll still need to use sun protection after spray tanning since the solution doesn't contain any UV protective ingredients. Also, it's recommended to conduct a patch test on the skin 24 hours before receiving complete treatment to ensure there are no adverse reactions to the tanning solution.
How To Have A Safe Spray Tanning Session
As mentioned, DHA as an active ingredient is considered safe for external use, so it's essential to avoid inhaling, ingesting or getting the substance into membranous body parts such as the genitals, the eyes, and the lips.
To protect yourself against hazardous exposure, you can consider wearing goggles to cover your eyes during the session. For your lips, you can put on a thick layer of lip balm to prevent the tint from getting to your lips. Lastly, you'll need to time your breathing and cover your mouth and nose when spraying the solution to avoid inhalation.
Although some spray tanning enthusiasts prefer to be nude during a session to avoid tan lines and unevenness, note that adding a layer of protection is essential to keep the solution away from the genital area. And with that, you can consider wearing a thong that would give the right amount of coverage to your genitalia while minimizing tan lines.
You'll also need to ensure that the salon or aesthetic clinic where you get your treatment is well-ventilated. The tanning solution may emit a strong smell a few moments after the procedure, and you'll feel more comfortable breathing in an area with proper ventilation as you wait for it to be absorbed by the skin.
After your appointment, you'll be given instructions by your tanning specialist as to how you can maintain your tan and give it a healthy glow at home. For instance, you can use sun protection creams and sprays to safeguard your skin against sun damage or hyperpigmentation. Also, you'll need to wait at least six hours after the treatment before taking a shower to ensure that the hue is wholly absorbed and that the skin is safe to wash.
Wrapping It Up
A spray tan can be an enjoyable beauty treat for those looking for a quick, convenient, and safe way to have that summer and bronze glow. Also, this beauty solution allows you to achieve a lustrous complexion without exposing your skin to harsh sun rays, which can cause damage and health problems. Compared to other options, spray tanning can be considered the least harmful to health and is generally safe for most clients.
