Wednesday, February 6, 2013

What's Spray Tanning?

Spray tanning is an easy, effective way to score a deep, dark tan with minimal time and effort. Unlike sitting in a tanning bed for a few minutes every day, or roasting in the sun, spray tanning does not contribute to pre-mature aging or skin cancer. Spray tanning is commonly used before a big event such as a wedding, prom or before vacation to add color and life to skin.


Identification


Spray tanning is simply a specific type of self-tanning. As opposed to being rubbed on in the form of a gel or lotion, the self-tanning formula is sprayed on. This can be done several different ways, but the objective and results are the same. Spraying the formula on the body allows for an even application and results in fewer "patchy" areas on the skin. DHA is the active ingredient in self-tanners and allows the skin's pigment to become darker on the surface. Like self-tanners applied via other methods, spray tanning gradually fades away after a few days.


Preparation


Prepare for any spray tan by exfoliating your skin with a loofah or scrub. Pay careful attention to areas that are prone to dryness such as the elbows, knees, and heels. Next, moisturize your skin and follow with the spray tan as soon as possible, as this is when skin is the most smooth. A smooth surface allows for the best results when dealing with spray tanning.


At Home


At home spray tanning can be achieved two ways. One way is through a small airbrush-type machine that resembles a small hairdryer. It can be purchased at most drugstores for around $20. The quality varies and the nozzle can clog because the machine is essentially spinning the self-tanning formula as it sprays. Another way of achieving a spray tan at home is through self-tanners in an aerosol can. These are often concocted so they can easily spray at many angles, allowing you to achieve an even tan, even if you are applying it to yourself.


At the Salon


At a salon, spray tanning is more likely to have a fantastic outcome as it will be applied by a professional. A trained technician will wield an airbrush wand that will softly spray a mist of self-tanning formula. Moving quickly, the technician is able to apply an even tan that creates contour shadows to make your figure look toned and sleek.


Time Frame


Immediately following your spray tan, you will notice a difference in color, but this is only the bronzer in the self-tanning formula. Color will further develop within two to three hours, and if you are performing the spray tan at home, it is after this duration of time that you can decide if you'd like to add another coat of color. Always allow color to develop completely to avoid turning too dark. Remember you can always go back and add more color, but if you aren't happy with your tan, you will have to start all over again. Less is more when it comes to spray tanning.


Effects


No long-term studies have been done on the side effects or long-term effects of self-tanners or spray tanning. The ingredient DHA is FDA-approved for external use only and because spray tanning can involve inhaling fumes, it is often advised that self-tanners applied in the form of a gel or lotion or direct forms of spray tanning such as airbrushing by a technician are safer than standing in a spray tanning booth.








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