Sun Tan City Spray Tan: A Simple Guide
Hey there, sun-kissed enthusiasts! Ever wondered how to get that perfect, bronzed look without baking in the sun? Let's dive into the world of Sun Tan City spray tans! Getting a spray tan can seem a bit intimidating, but trust me, it's super easy once you know the ropes. This guide is all about giving you the lowdown on how to get the most out of your Sun Tan City experience, from prep to aftercare. So, whether you're a spray tan newbie or a seasoned pro, stick around – I've got you covered!
Preparing for Your Sun Tan City Spray Tan
Preparing is key, guys! Think of it like this: if you want a painting to look good, you gotta prep the canvas, right? The same goes for your skin. Prepping properly ensures an even, natural-looking tan that lasts. Here's what you need to do before your appointment:
Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate!
This is probably the most crucial step! Exfoliation is all about getting rid of dead skin cells. This way, the spray tan can adhere evenly to your skin, preventing those dreaded streaks and patches. Use a good quality body scrub, or even a loofah, and gently scrub your entire body, paying extra attention to areas like your elbows, knees, and ankles – these spots tend to get dry and accumulate dead skin. Do this 24 hours before your spray tan appointment. Don't exfoliate immediately before – you want your pores to have time to settle.
Shave or Wax Beforehand
If you shave or wax, do it at least 24 hours before your appointment. This gives your skin time to recover and prevents the tan from settling into open hair follicles, which can create those little dark dots. Smooth skin is happy skin when it comes to spray tanning!
Shower and Skip the Lotions and Deodorants
Shower, but skip the moisturizing body wash and definitely no lotions or deodorants. These products can act as a barrier, preventing the spray tan from adhering properly. You want clean, dry skin as your starting point. You can shower and shave the day before but just make sure your skin is clean and clear of anything when you go for your spray tan.
What to Wear to Your Appointment
Choose loose, dark clothing. Think dark-colored, loose-fitting clothes like a maxi dress, a baggy t-shirt and loose pants, or a long-sleeved shirt and leggings. Tight clothing can rub against your skin and potentially mess up your tan. Also, wear loose-fitting shoes or sandals. After your spray tan, avoid wearing a bra or anything with tight straps that could leave marks.
Removing Jewelry and Makeup
Remove all jewelry before your appointment. Also, remove your makeup. This will help you to look amazing and keep the tan where it should be. The spray tan needs a clean base to stick to.
The Sun Tan City Spray Tan Session
Alright, you've prepped like a pro. Now let's talk about what happens during your Sun Tan City spray tan session. Here's a quick rundown to ease any nerves:
The Consultation
Before the spray tan begins, you'll have a quick consultation. The technician will ask about your skin type, desired shade, and any concerns you might have. They'll also explain the process and answer any questions you have. This is your chance to voice your preferences!
The Spray Tan Booth
You'll step into a private booth. The technician will guide you on how to stand, usually with your arms out and legs slightly apart. Don't worry, the process is pretty quick. The technician will spray the solution evenly over your body.
Protecting Yourself
You'll be given disposable items to protect certain areas. Typically, you'll get disposable underwear, a hair net, and sticky feet to protect the soles of your feet from the tanning solution.
The Spraying Process
The technician will expertly apply the spray tan solution. They will spray your entire body. The application takes just a few minutes, so try to relax and don't hold your breath. The technician will guide you on the best positions to ensure even coverage. They'll make sure to get all the hard-to-reach spots, like the back of your arms and legs.
Drying Time
After the spray, you'll need to stand and dry. Depending on the solution, this might take a few minutes. The technician may use a drying machine to speed up the process. This is the time to let the tan set.
Aftercare: Maintaining Your Perfect Tan
So, you've got that gorgeous glow! Now comes the aftercare – this is how you keep your tan looking fresh and fabulous for as long as possible. Here's what you need to do:
Avoid Showering Immediately
Wait at least 8 hours, and ideally longer, before showering. This gives the tan enough time to fully develop. If you shower too soon, you could wash away the tan before it has a chance to set.
Avoid Strenuous Activities and Sweating
Avoid activities that make you sweat, like working out or intense yard work, for at least 24 hours. Sweat can cause streaking and uneven fading. This is the time to chill, catch up on your favorite shows, or simply relax.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
Hydration is your best friend when it comes to maintaining your tan. Use a fragrance-free, oil-free moisturizer at least twice a day. This will keep your skin hydrated and help the tan last longer. Look for moisturizers specifically designed for spray tans, as these are formulated to work with the tanning solution.
Gentle Cleansing
When you do shower, use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash. Avoid harsh soaps, as these can strip away your tan. Pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing, which can also fade your tan.
Avoid Exfoliation
Skip the exfoliation, at least for a while. Exfoliating too soon will remove the tan. When you do start exfoliating again, do it gently to maintain the tan for as long as possible.
Swimming and Pools
Chlorine and saltwater can fade your tan faster. If you plan to swim, apply a waterproof sunscreen beforehand. This will help protect your tan from fading too quickly.
Protect Your Tan with Sunscreen
Even with a spray tan, you still need to protect your skin from the sun. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF every day, especially if you're going to be outside. This will protect your skin from sun damage and help your tan last longer.
Troubleshooting Common Spray Tan Issues
Okay, things don't always go perfectly, and that's okay! Here are some common spray tan issues and how to fix them:
Streaking
Streaking is usually caused by uneven application or not prepping your skin properly. If you notice streaks, gently exfoliate the affected area. If it's really bad, you might need to go back for a touch-up.
Patchiness
Patchiness can be caused by dry skin or areas where the tan didn't adhere well. Make sure you're moisturizing regularly, especially after showering. You might also want to exfoliate the patchy areas and reapply the tan.
Fading Too Quickly
If your tan is fading too quickly, you might not be moisturizing enough, or you might be using harsh soaps. Make sure you're following the aftercare tips to the letter. If your tan fades unevenly, you might need to schedule a reapplication.
Orange Tones
Sometimes, spray tans can have an orange hue. This is usually due to the solution used or your skin type. If you notice an orange tint, try using a tan-extending lotion with a cooler undertone to neutralize the color.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Glow!
Getting a Sun Tan City spray tan is a fantastic way to achieve a sun-kissed look without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. By following these spray tan directions, from preparing your skin to maintaining your tan, you can enjoy a beautiful, natural-looking glow that lasts. Remember, it’s all about preparation, patience, and proper aftercare. So go ahead, treat yourself, and embrace that radiant, confident feeling that comes with a perfect spray tan! Happy tanning, everyone!