some helpful tanning tips
ABOUT SPRAYTANS
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When you receive a spray tan, your skin will look instantly tanned as a result of the 'bronzer' in the spray tanning solution. The bronzer is the ingredient that provides that instant tanned look but it is not what actually tans your skin, it is the Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that does and is actually a clear ingredient.
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DHA derived from sugar beets and sugar cane which causes a chemical reaction with amino acids in the surface cells of your skin that produces the darkening effect. It has been in use in the cosmetic industry for over 30 years.
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You will see most of your colour develop 8 hours after your spray tan though it can take up to 24 hours for it to fully process.
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Traditional spray tans were not able to be washed off for at least 8 - 10 hours after application though there is a quicker option if timing does not permit.
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Having a spray tan during pregnancy is perfectly safe although wearing a face mask is recommended to avoid inhalation of airborne vapour.
BEFORE YOUR TAN
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The longest-lasting tan starts before you get to the salon. This means getting your skin in the best possible condition prior to your spray tan, as the better its condition, the better and longer lasting your spray tan will be. You can do this by exfoliating for the 3 days leading up to your spray tan and by thoroughly exfoliating the night before your spray tan. We have Tan Removal Mitts available for optimal results.
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Any hair removal process whether it be, waxing, shaving, threading, tweezing, laser etc should be done at least 24 hours prior to your spray tan as any hair removal within this time can affect the quality of your tan. Shaving particularly can encourage your skin to produce natural oils which needs to be avoided.
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If you are tinting your eyebrows, please ensure they are done at least 24hrs prior to your spray tan.
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Manicures/pedicures to be done prior to a spray tan/self tan.
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Use a body wash that is not perfumed and pH balanced or ultimately the Tuscan Tan Tan Toner Skin Wash, please ask your friendly technician. Avoid washing with bar soap of any kind on the day of your spray tan as it will leave a layer of film on your skin and prevent an even spray tan.
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Do not apply any moisturiser, deodorant or perfume leading up to your spray tan as they can act as a barrier. If you are having your face spray tanned, please do not wear any make-up. Wipes are available to remove deodorant, foundation, and lotion (eye makeup is okay), since that barrier could mean uneven color—specifically, white pits.
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We supply hair nets, disposable underwear, sticky feet and face masks all free of charge. Please ask your friendly technician if you require any of these products.
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What you wear during your spray tan is up to you. (please see what to wear after your tan in the next column) If it is your first time and you are a little nervous you can wear swimwear, otherwise you may wear dark underwear or g-strings. All males must wear togs, underwear, g-strings or boxers.
AFTER YOUR TAN
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Wear or bring dark, loose-fitting breathable clothing to change into at the end of your spray tan. Our spray tanning solution washes out of most clothes very easily but there is always the possibility it may stain some materials such as nylon and lycra so please avoid these. Dark colored underwear is recommended.
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Avoid wearing socks or shoes after your spray tan in order to allow it to develop properly on your feet.
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If it is raining on the day of your spray tan, please ensure you will be completely covered up - think winter pyjamas/robes, as no water is allowed to be in contact with your skin. Avoid thongs in the rain as these can flick water from the ground up onto the back of your legs.
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Some of the bronzer of your spray tan may rub off on your nightwear, pillow and bed sheets. It is recommended placing a single dark sheet or a towel over your bed sheets and pillow to protect them from your spray tan.
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Use a body wash that is pH balanced and free from sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and avoid anything which may exfoliate your skin such as long, hot baths, exposure to chlorinated water, exfoliating gloves or sponges.
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The tanning solution we use for our spray tans does not contain any sunscreen and having a spray tan does not protect you from UV rays or sunburn.
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Wait a minimum of 8 hours before applying moisturiser on any part of the spray tanned area.
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Your spray tan will last approximately 5 - 10 days depending on your preparation, colour depth and aftercare practices.
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A good skin care regime is essential when taking care of your spray tan. Along side continual moisturising after the initial 8 hour wait, we strongly recommend a spray tan extender. Spray tan extenders keep it looking vibrant and can extend the life of your spray tan up to 14 days. Please ask your friendly technician if you'd like to know more about the Tuscan Tan Tinted Tan Extender.
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For best results, we recommend no swimming, showering and/or vigorous exercise be undertaken within 12 hours of your spray tan as this can inhibit the development and adversely affect the result. After the spray tan is fully developed, quick dips in beach water is the key to reduce faster fade off, chlorine however may strip the tan.
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For the first shower after your spray tan, it's always best to use water that's lukewarm and not too hot. A quick 30 second rinse is recommended. Avoid shower gels that leave residue behind on the skin and pat your skin dry, do not rub.
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It is recommended to avoid any hair removal processes as this may shorten the life of your tan and may cause unevenness.
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Remember:
When you take a shower you will probably see some color wash off. Don’t worry as this is quite normal as it is only the bronzer ingredient within the spray tan solution when the spray tan is applied. Rest assured, you will be left with a gorgeous 'sunless tan for an endless summer'.
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