Spray tanning is a perfect way to achieve a natural-looking sun-kissed glow without exposing your skin to the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, it is essential to follow specific skin tips to ensure that you keep your skin healthy and hydrated after a spray tanning session. Here are five tips to keep your skin healthy and looking great after a spray tan.
Exfoliate Before Your Appointment
It is important to exfoliate your skin before your spray tanning appointment. This helps remove any excess dead skin cells and oils that prevent the tanning solution from absorbing evenly. Exfoliating also helps to create a smooth canvas for the solution to adhere to, leading to a more even and long-lasting tan. When exfoliating, use a gentle scrub specifically designed for use before tanning. Avoid scrubs with large grains or harsh ingredients such as acids or retinol that could irritate your skin. Instead, focus on the areas that build up the most oils, like your elbows, feet, and hands.
Arrive to Your Appointment Freshly Bathed
A good exfoliation can boost your spray tanning results.
One of the most important steps before your spray tanning appointment is to arrive freshly bathed. This will help ensure that the tanning solution is applied evenly and correctly. You should also avoid using lotions, oils, or moisturizers before your appointment, as this can create a barrier preventing the tanning solution from properly absorbing into your skin. To ensure the best results, it’s best to completely shower or bathe before the appointment and allow your skin to air dry.
Use an Oil-Free Moisturizer
Moisturizing is an important part of aftercare for a spray tan. An oil-free moisturizer should keep the skin hydrated and prevent fading. When choosing a moisturizer, make sure it’s formulated for your skin type and contains no oils or fragrances. Moisturizers with glycerin are great for keeping your skin hydrated and maintaining your tan’s color. Apply your oil-free moisturizer twice daily to keep your skin hydrated and looking its best.
Wait 24 Hours Before Showering
Showering too soon after your spray tan can strip away the color and cause fading. To get the most out of your tan, it’s important to wait at least 24 hours before showering. This will ensure that the DHA (the active ingredient in spray tanning solutions) has enough time to develop fully. During this time, you should avoid sweating and swimming, as this can also affect the color of your tan.
Gently Exfoliate Once or Twice a Seek
Exfoliating is important to maintaining healthy skin after a spray tanning session. Exfoliating helps extract the dead skin cells that pile up on the skin’s surface, giving your skin a smoother and more even appearance. To exfoliate, use an oil-free scrub or exfoliating mitt once or twice a week. Avoid harsh exfoliants that can strip the skin of its natural oils. Be sure to moisturize your skin afterward to keep it hydrated. You may need to exfoliate less often or use a gentler product if you have sensitive skin.
