Steps to the Perfect Tan: What to Do Before Getting a Spray Tan
Do you crave that sun-kissed, bronzed allure that a tan provides, but dread the hours under the sun or UV radiation? Spray tans are your best bet. They are not only super convenient but also lend you that coveted natural-looking tan, minus the UV ray exposure. But, hold on! Don’t rush off to the tanning salon just yet. There’s a bit of prep work involved. This comprehensive guide is all about what to do before getting a spray tan.
1. Exfoliate beforehand
To achieve that flawless and long-lasting spray tan, exfoliation is key. Scrubbing off dead skin cells from your body’s surface aids in the spray tan’s even application and endurance. Aim to exfoliate a day prior to your tanning session.
2. On the Day: Stay away from water
A golden rule to adhere to on the day of your spray tan appointment is to avoid water. This encompasses any sweat-inducing activity such as exercise or household tasks like washing dishes. Both water and sweat could lead to a streaky spray tan, and believe me, that’s the last thing you want!
3. Dress appropriately
Now, when you’re heading for your spray tan, it’s essential to don appropriate attire. Choose loose-fitting and dark clothing. Tight clothes can potentially rub off the tan, leading to uneven coloration. Steer clear from anything with a tight neckline or sleeves that could stick to your skin, obstructing the tan’s even absorption.
4. Avoid wearing makeup, lotion, or deodorant
Before the tanning session, your skin should be devoid of makeup, lotion, or deodorant. These substances could potentially impede the spray tan’s absorption, thereby causing an uneven tan or reducing its longevity.
A Word on Your Diet: What to Do Before Getting a Spray Tan
Your diet may not seem relevant to your spray tan, but let me assure you, it is! Here’s what you should be mindful of:
- Stay hydrated: Staying well-hydrated not only benefits your overall health but also impacts the health of your skin. Drinking plenty of water leading up to your tanning session can help ensure your skin is moisturized from within, aiding in a more even and longer-lasting tan.
- Eat antioxidant-rich foods: Foods high in antioxidants can help boost your skin’s health, which in turn can impact your tan. Try incorporating more foods like berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables into your diet leading up to your tanning session.
- Avoid foods that can dehydrate your skin: Certain foods and beverages can dehydrate your skin, which may affect your tan. Limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine, and salty foods leading up to your tanning session.
- Consider a skin-healthy supplement: Certain vitamins and supplements can support skin health, which may help with your tan. For example, vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can all contribute to healthier skin. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
- Avoid foods that can cause bloating: You’ll likely be wearing minimal clothing during your tanning session, so you may want to avoid foods that can cause bloating or discomfort. This might include foods high in sodium or gas-producing foods like beans or certain vegetables.
- Watch out for foods that can stain your skin: It might sound odd, but certain foods can actually temporarily stain your skin, which could affect your tan. This includes foods like beets or heavily dyed candies. Be mindful of your diet on the day of your tanning session.
Post-Tan Skin Care
The journey doesn’t end at getting the tan. Aftercare is equally crucial. Post your spray tan, ensure to keep water or sweat contact at bay for a minimum of 8 hours. Regularly moisturizing your skin after the spray tan will help to keep the color vibrant and radiant.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the A to Z of what to do before getting a spray tan. Remember these pointers and you’re sure to bag that even, enduring tan. Make sure to voice any concerns or queries to your spray tan professional before you begin. They can guide you towards the best course of action. At BeautyIndulge, we offer a wide array of natural, safe, and organic skincare products perfect for nurturing your skin pre and post-spray tan. Go ahead, embrace that glowing tan, and bask in the shower of compliments!
FAQs
❖ Why should I exfoliate before a spray tan?
Exfoliation is crucial because it removes dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. This smooth surface allows for an even application of the spray tan and makes the tan last longer. By not exfoliating, you run the risk of your tan appearing patchy and fading unevenly.
❖ Is it okay to wear makeup before a spray tan?
No, it is not recommended to wear makeup before getting a spray tan. Makeup can create a barrier between your skin and the tanning solution, preventing it from absorbing evenly. Therefore, it’s best to come in with clean, makeup-free skin.
❖ What should I wear to a spray tan appointment?
It’s best to wear loose, dark clothing to a spray tan appointment. Tight clothes could rub off the spray tan and cause uneven color. Dark clothes are recommended as the tanning solution might stain lighter colored clothing.
❖ How can my diet impact my spray tan?
A healthy, balanced diet can positively impact your spray tan. Drinking plenty of water, consuming antioxidant-rich foods, and avoiding dehydrating foods or beverages can enhance the health of your skin, thus ensuring a better tan.
❖ Can I work out after getting a spray tan?
It’s not advisable to work out immediately after getting a spray tan. Excessive sweat can cause the tanning solution to streak and fade. Ideally, you should avoid working out until the tan has fully developed, which is typically 8 to 12 hours after the session.
❖ Why should I avoid water after a spray tan?
Water can cause the tanning solution to streak or wash off before it’s fully absorbed into your skin. This can lead to a patchy or uneven tan. It’s generally recommended to avoid contact with water for 8-12 hours following your tanning session.
❖ How often should I moisturize after a spray tan?
Moisturizing regularly after a spray tan can help prolong the life of your tan and keep your skin looking healthy and glowing. Ideally, you should moisturize at least once a day, although more frequent moisturizing can be beneficial.
❖ How does tight clothing affect a spray tan?
Tight clothing can rub against the skin and remove or smudge the tanning solution before it’s fully absorbed, leading to an uneven or streaky tan. Therefore, it’s best to wear loose-fitting clothes to your spray tan appointment and for a few hours afterward.
❖ Can I use deodorant before a spray tan?
It’s not recommended to use deodorant before a spray tan. Deodorants can react with the tanning solution and lead to discoloration, especially in the underarm area. Therefore, it’s best to avoid deodorant until the tan has fully developed.
❖ Why should I avoid sun exposure after a spray tan?
Even though a spray tan can give you the look of a sun-kissed glow, it doesn’t provide protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Therefore, it’s important to continue using sunscreen after getting a spray tan to protect your skin from sun damage.