Bronzed and Beautiful: A Guide to Prepping for Your First Spray Tan
Hey sun-kissed souls of Swansea! If you've decided to level up your glow game with a professional spray tan, you're in for a treat. But before you step into the bronzing magic of our beauty salon, here's your go-to guide on what you need to do to prepare for the ultimate sunless tan, why it's crucial to prep, and some insider advice for your first spray tan rendezvous. Let's dive in!
Prep Step 1: Exfoliate Like You're on a Mission
The key to a flawless spray tan lies in smooth skin, and that starts with a good exfoliation session. Scrub away those dead skin cells, paying extra attention to elbows, knees, and ankles. This not only ensures an even tan but also helps it last longer. We want you glowing, not patchy! Just make sure you’re not using an oil-based exfoliant..an exfoliating glove with regular body wash is going to be your best friend here.
Prep Step 2: Shave or Wax 24 Hours Prior
Smooth skin is the canvas for a perfect tan, so make sure you're hair-free at least 24 hours before your appointment. Shave or wax – it's your call. But once the tan is on, shaving or waxing is going to remove your tan and leave you looking streaky, so make sure this is done before you get sprayed.
Prep Step 3: Skip the Moisturizer the Day of Your Tan
As much as we love a good moisturizing routine, the day of your spray tan is the exception. Skip the lotion to ensure the tan adheres to your skin properly. However, make sure your skin is well-hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment for that radiant finish.
Prep step 4: Remove deodorant and perfume before you get sprayed.
Some perfumes and deodorants contain metal ions, such as copper or aluminum. These metals can react with the DHA in the spray tan solution. When these metal ions come into contact with DHA, a chemical reaction occurs. This reaction can produce a greenish hue on the skin, especially if the metal ions are present in higher concentrations.
Why Prep? Because Tan Prep is the Real MVP
Now, you might be wondering why all this prep is necessary. Well, think of it like this – you wouldn't paint a wall without priming it first. Your skin is the canvas, and proper preparation ensures the spray tan goes on smoothly and evenly. It's the secret sauce for that natural, sun-kissed glow.
First-Timer Tips: What to Expect on Tanning Day
So, it's the big day! You've prepped like a pro, and now it's time to get your glow on. Here are some additional tips for your first spray tan appointment:
1. Wear Loose, Dark Clothing:
The bronzing magic happens, but it needs a bit of time to set. Opt for loose, dark clothing to avoid any rubbing or smudging post-tan.
2. Bring Flip-Flops:
Leave those sneakers at home. Opt for flip-flops to protect your tootsies and prevent any unwanted tan lines.
3. Wear as much or as little as you like:
Some clients can be a little unsure about what to wear during a spray tan and ultimately it’s whatever you’re comfortable wearing. We do provide disposable underwear which is entirely optional for you to wear. Some clients like to be fully nude, others like to wear a full bathing costume. Most wear knickers and go topless to get as little tan lines as possible. Our spray tan experts have no preference to what you wear, as long as you have a comfortable experience. Just remember to wear older, darker underwear/bikinis as although staining is unlikely to happen, there is a small risk that it will.
4. Embrace the Drying Dance:
Post-tan, you might feel a bit like a robot doing the drying dance. Embrace it! It helps the tan set evenly, and it's a good excuse to bust a move.
5. Wait Before Showering:
Patience is key. Wait for the recommended time before hitting the shower. Your tan needs time to develop, and the results are worth the wait.
6. Dark sheets:
A lot of people after a spray tan like to leave it on overnight before washing it. Be prepared that this will rub off on your sheets. While it often does wash out without leaving staining, you should be prepared to have orange bedding.
Why Choose a Professional Tan? Because You Deserve the Best!
Sure, there are at-home tanning options, but nothing beats the precision and expertise of a professional spray tan. Our trained technicians know how to customize the tan to your skin tone, ensuring a natural-looking radiance that screams 'just got back from the beach.'
So, Swansea tanners, get ready to glow! Follow these tips, trust the process, and step into our salon for the best spray tan of your life. Your luminous, bronzed self awaits!