How to get the most out of your AIRBRUSH TAN

To avoid uneven or blotchy areas of tan, it is essential to start exfoliating and hydrating the skin at least 2-3 days before your airbrush tan. 

Exfoliation will help to remove any excess dead skin cells to reveal fresh, youthful skin. Exfoliation will also prep the skin exposing an even surface to spray, which in turn allows for an even application without error after the DHA is applied. At a minimum, it is recommended clients exfoliate and hydrate 24 hours before the airbrush tan session. Clients should use a spa grade exfoliator containing no oils for best results. 

Moisturizing is also vital in airbrush tan preparation. Adding moisture to the skin will decrease the chance of discoloration, patchiness, alligator skin, and overdevelopment in drier areas upon application. Remember: Hydrated skin is healthier, and healthy skin will “hold” onto those skin cells that have absorbed the DHA.  

An important reminder for clients: All beauty appointments should be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled tanning session. Services like pedicures, massages, and hair appointments can affect the outcome of a airbrush tan if done too close to the sunless appointment.

Day of tanning session maintenance is of utmost importance. Clients must follow these guidelines to improve the outcome of their airbrush tan: 

• Wear loose-fitting, dark, cotton clothing. Avoid silk; refrain from wearing tight shoes and socks, tight restrictive pants, tops, and bras; and do not wear white. 

• Remove perfumes, deodorants, and lotions before arriving at the airbrush tan appointment.

•  It is best to avoid using soaps and shampoos in the shower immediately before the tanning appointment.  Do not use moisturizing soaps before your airbrush tan application.  Do not shower within 3 hours of your application , you skin needs to be completely dry.

• Shave at least 8 hours prior to your airbrush tan appointment.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to hydrate the body and skin; hydration starts from the inside! 

• Avoid using oil-based products the day of tanning session, these oils could act as a barrier to DHA and cause an uneven development and lessen the longevity of an airbrush tan. 

• DO NOT exfoliate or shave the day of your tan!

 Before you Shower

***Wait at least 8-10 hours to shower***

• Stay dry & cool, avoiding exercise, and washing dishes.  DO NOT wash your hands until after the development process, 8-10 hours.  

• Sleep in a cool room or with a fan to avoid excess sweating

• Make sure you sleep in long sleeves and long pants as touching skin to skin will cause sweat marks

• You will be twice as dark before you shower; once you shower your color will be the same or slightly lighter than it was after tan application

• Your first shower should be gentle. Do not use soap for 24 hours after your tan application, only water.   After 24 hours you can use a gentle cleaners like Cetaphil or CeraVe

• For the duration of your tan do not take hot showers or use a loofa or wash cloth as this will exfoliate off your tan. Use only your hand to cleanse. Blot dry your skin with a towel after you shower, do not rub

• After your shower moisturize daily to maximize your tan, 1-2 times daily

• Use gentle products (body wash, lotion, sunscreen) that are natural without added ingredients and mineral oil to protect your tan. Aloe, shea, and cocoa butter based lotions will nourish the tan and make it last longer. I recommend Hempz

• An airbrush tan will not protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays, wear sunscreen to protect your skin. Avoid aerosols, aerosols contain alcohol which will dry out your skin. Sun Bum or Elta MD are good options. Make sure your sun screen is oil free

• Do not use retinol, acne products, anti-aging products, oils, toner or makeup removal products on your airbrush tan