Five Misconceptions About Spray Tanning

Spray tanning has become a popular choice for those seeking a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. However, like any beauty treatment, spray tanning has its fair share of myths and misconceptions. When you jump into the sunless industry and start your spray tan business, you will quickly find that there are a lot of misconceptions and opinions surrounding spray tanning services. Clients tend to be cautious about getting a spray tan for the first time because this service changes the appearance of their entire body. Not to mention, in the early years of spray tanning the results were less than natural and sometimes these stigmas and misconceptions get stuck in people’s memory. Luckily, the sunless industry has come a long way from the days of the Snookie tan, therefore as spray tan technicians, we have to educate our communities on the benefits of choosing to spray tan and show them how natural and flawless the results of this service can be! In this post, we'll shed light on some of the most common misunderstandings surrounding spray tanning and separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Spray Tans Turn You Orange

One of the most common myths about spray tanning is the fear of ending up with an unnatural orange hue to the skin. The reality is that modern spray tanning solutions are formulated to produce a natural-looking tan. The dreaded orange tint often stems from improper application or skin preparation. Choosing an educated, skilled and certified spray tan technician who is knowledgeable about the products they choose to use on their clients and the way it affects different skin types of tones allows clients to achieve a golden glow. During a spray tan appointment, the artist should discuss the desired shade with each client and analyze their natural skin tone in order to choose a sunless solution mixture that will work well with each individual client. Understanding sunless science and the best application practices will ensure that each spray tan service will turn out bronze, but never orange.

Myth 2: Spray Tanning is Unsafe for Your Skin

Some clients may worry that the chemicals in spray tan solutions may be harmful to the skin. However, the majority of spray tan solutions use DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a safe and FDA-approved ingredient that reacts with the top layer of your skin to create a tan-like effect. DHA is produced through a process that uses sugar and fermented glycerin. Studies have also shown that DHA does not get absorbed systemically and only affects the epidermis, or top layer of the skin. Since DHA only affects the outer layer of skin, this ingredient is sloughed off after 7-10 days with the body’s natural skin shedding cycle. In order to increase the safety of clients during spray tan appointments, sunless artists should always ensure that mucous membranes of the eyes and lips are protected during application. 

Myth 3: Spray Tans Don't Last Long

Another misconception is that spray tans fade quickly, leaving you with a short-lived tan. The longevity of a spray tan depends on factors such as your skin type, aftercare routine, and the quality of the spray tan solution used. With proper care, including moisturizing and avoiding activities that cause excessive sweating, your spray tan can last up to a week or more. Many times, clients can be offered add-on options and aftercare items that help increase moisture in the skin in order to see results that last close to two weeks. With proper care and education, clients could experience a sunless tanning routine that only requires them to keep up with their spray tan appointments a few times a month in order to have a flawless natural glow all year long. 

Myth 4: Spray Tanning Doesn't Work on Fair Skin

Some people with fair skin worry that spray tanning is unable to provide them with natural looking results. In reality, spray tanning can be customized to suit various skin tones, including fair skin. Professional technicians can adjust the solution to achieve a subtle, natural tan that complements lighter complexions. Depending on the type of clientele that you have as a spray tan artist, you may find that a lot of the clients you serve don’t actually want a deep dark bronze. There may be far more people who would rather enjoy a subtle sun-kissed glow. However, clients that have fair skin typically don’t experience natural tanning from the sun, therefore this service can cause a greater sense of precaution because these clients don’t want to have a tan that looks too dark or pulls orange. As a spray tan artist, you can use your knowledge to educate your audience on the versatility that a spray tan service offers.

Myth 5: Spray Tanning Offers No Health Benefits

Beyond aesthetics, spray tanning can have health benefits by reducing the need for prolonged sun exposure, therefore lowering the risk of skin damage and premature aging. It's a safe alternative for those who want a bronzed look without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. Many people tend to think that they don’t have to worry about the risks of sun exposure until they’re older in age, but the reality is that it’s not uncommon for young people in their 20’s and 30’s to experience life threatening effects from the sun, such as skin cancer. Many spray tanning solutions are now made with ingredients that hydrate and nourish the skin to reduce signs of aging and produce a youthful glow from the inside out. 

As we've noted, many misconceptions about spray tanning exist, but with proper knowledge and education, you have the opportunity to supply clients with a beautiful, sunless tan. In order to ensure that you always deliver the most flawless glow during your client appointments, it’s important to understand your client’s preferences, recommend the proper pre and post tan care practices and provide a five star technique that always exceeds expectations. Now it’s time to be the chosen spray tan artist in your town by busting the myths that are correlated to sunless tanning and introduce a luxurious sun-kissed experience with spray tanning. Visit the Spray Tan Class Certification Course options today to enhance your skills or start your journey to becoming a spray tan business owner.

Xo,

Kelly