How well do you love your skin? I believe well enough to ensure that it’s well protected and well prepared to handle any season. Can we talk specifically about the summer when you want to get that perfect tan and are really looking to where your short skirts are? I’m sure you’ve heard much about spray tanning and sunbed tanning, but do you know the details? Well, today we want you to know all the facts, everything full body spray tanning. Let’s get right into it.
The Process
Spray Tan
When going for a spray tan, you will be asked to wear loose, dark clothing. You will be required to remove all makeup and tie the hair up. Your attendant will ask you to strip down to your underwear. They will have a pop-up tent structure that you will stand in, and the spraying process will begin.
Sunbeds
Sunbeds are found in tanning or beauty salons like the ones we have here at BR SunSpa. You can choose to tan in your bikini or the nude. To tan in the nude, you must protect the more sensitive areas, such as the chest and the bikini line. You will be given a pair of goggles to wear during the process to protect your eyes. Don’t take off the goggles while on the sunbed.
The traditional style is a ‘low-pressure bed’ which emits UV rays on a similar spectrum to sunlight. High-pressure beds have a higher frequency of UVA rays. The difference between UV and UVA is that UVA rays penetrate the skin deeper. Finally, you will get into a ‘Tanning Booth’ or ‘Stand Up Bed’ where you can change your position to get an even tan all over your body.
How long will it last?
Spray Tan
A spray tan lasts 5 to 10 days, depending on the shade you choose. A lighter shade will fade faster than a darker tan. However, you can use the following tips to make your tan last longer. Exfoliate before your appointment. This removes any potential blocking from dead skin cells and reduces streakiness.
You also need to shave or wax before your appointment so that you don’t risk removing any tan afterward. Moisturizing regularly will prevent any premature fading and help keep your skin glowing. You need to keep topping your tan up via appointments to have a more permanent tan.
Sunbeds
This will depend on how light or dark you have chosen to have your tan. The condition and health of your skin will also contribute to the longevity of your tan. A lighter tan will fade after 1 or 2 weeks. A darker tan will last up to 4 months.
Fun fact: The top layer of skin (epidermis) has a cycle of 28 days, after which it will shed. Thus, you must top up after this time to keep a lasting tan.
Will it harm my skin?
Spray Tan
No, a spray tan will not harm your skin. It is seen as a safe alternative to sunbathing or sunbeds. But unlike those two, it does not involve any interaction with UV rays. It involves the reaction between the natural color additive (DHA) and the amino acids on the top layer of the skin – the epidermis.
Sunbeds
Unfortunately, sunbeds are deemed potentially harmful to your skin as you are exposed to UV and UVA rays. UV rays can be harmful since they cause damage to your skin cells, evoke premature wrinkles and aging, liver spots, and can increase the risk of skin cancer if exposure is severe.
Is it waterproof?
Spray Tan
After a spray tan appointment, you can shower 6-8 hours after. This will give your skin enough time to absorb the tan. While you may swim with a spray tan on, contact with chlorine can lead to your tan fading more quickly.
Sunbeds
Since this procedure relies on UV rays, your tan will not fade with water interference. Thus, you can shower as soon as you would like.
How much does it cost?
Spray Tan
The price of a spray tan will depend on the salon you choose, but it can cost anywhere between $20 – $100. You can choose to have a sunless spray tan.
Sunbeds
The prices will vary depending on your session length and your personal preferences. At BR SunSpa, our prices are flexible depending on the machine you use. Check here to see our prices.
So, spray tan or sunbed?
Spray Tan Pros
- Increased Confidence.
- Even an instant color.
- Healthier for your skin.
- Decreases the appearance of cellulite and other blemishes.
- It can last up to 12 days.
Spray Tan Cons
- Possible skin sensitivity. Always use the spray tan solution on a small area of your skin to see if your skin will react to it.
- Staining, although the color comes off all sheets and clothes.
- Proper pre and post-tan care to make your tan last longer.
Sunbed Pros
- Easy to maintain.
- Even color and quick results.
- Protects your skin from sunburns.
- Long-lasting.
- Easily customizable based on the time and frequency you use on the sunbed.
- Increases Vitamin D.
Sunbed Cons
- It may expose you to dangerous UV rays, which can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and sunspots.
In summary, spray tans and sunbeds can effectively help you achieve your desired tan. You can choose whichever option works for you. However, if you want a long-lasting tan, we recommend sunbed tanning. With a well-regulated sunbed, you can manage exposure to harmful UV rays.
BR SunSpa is a full-body spray tanning salon located in Westwood, New Jersey. We use the latest, most advanced tanning equipment to provide a custom spray or sunless tanning. We have a polite, educated, smart staff who can help design a perfect package to meet all your tanning needs and budgets. We believe that your skin is one of the greatest indicators of your beauty and needs exceptional care. That’s why we are so dedicated to giving you the experience of your lifetime. Book your appointment today!