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Frequently Asked Questions

This section should answer any question you may have about spray tanning. Read below, there are some important tips on how to prepare and keep your tan glowing as long as possible.

Spray Tan Prep

2 to 5 Days Before

Complete any waxing, facial treatments, or microdermabrasion that you plan to have done. This includes lasers, chemical peels, or anything that we all do to try to maintain our youth. Make sure to allow enough time for your skin to heal before your spray tan (i.e. no more peeling)

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​If you use retinol, stop using it a few days before your tan so that you get the same amount of color on your face as on the rest of your body. If you continue using Retinols, your tan will fade in those areas or become blotchy almost immediately

The Day Before

Make sure to complete any hair appointments,  manicures and pedicures the day before your spray tan treatment if you choose to do so. Do not get them on the same day as your tan - soaking your hands and feet in the water before your spray tan will result in an uneven color. Also the lotion they apply will create a barrier on your skin which will prevent the solution form absorbing correctly. Forgot to get your mani/pedi before? Aim to get them after your first post-tan shower and opt for a polish change only (no soaking)

Night Before

The night before your tan - Shower, shave and exfoliate your skin. (shaving is optional) Avoid using any soapy or oily exfoliants as these can create a barrier on your skin. Opt for a mitt or towel. I recommend using the "Buff Me Exfoliating Mitt"  this will ensure the best results.

Do not exfoliate any less than 8 hrs before your appointment.

Choose your soap wisely, anything with heavy moisturizers like Dove are a big no-no, these products will leave a barrier on your skin. 

Ask me for product recommendations

Night Before

​When you get out of the shower, do not apply any lotion or perfume on your body (a small amount of lotion on your face and dry area's such as hands, elbows, and feet is ok). You want your skin to be squeaky-clean and even a little "thirsty" the next day at your appointment. "Thirsty" skin more readily absorbs the tanning solution. Forgot to shower and shave the night before your appointment? Skip it all and come as you are. Trust us, you’ll love your tan WAY more and I'll give you tips on how to shave with a spray tan on.

What To Do After Your Appointment and For The Rest of The Day

  • Your Tan will start to develop around the 4 hour mark and is fully finished 24 hours later. (some ppl see the most colour on the second day) While your tan is developing, avoid water at all costs - no washing dishes, scrubbing a bathtub, or anything that could potentially splash water on you. That means avoiding the rain too! 

  • No sweating or working out. If you're an avid gym goer, spray tan on your rest day.  Also, please mention this when you are booking your appointment, as I have some sweat resistant solutions. It's ideal to wait the full 24 hours before doing any activities that may get your body sweating. 

  • Avoid skin-to-skin contact. Obviously, with someone else but also think of your classic relaxation positions - Are you a leg-crosser? Do you rest your head on your arm when you sleep? If so, make sure those areas are covered by fabric (why I  suggest long pants and long sleeves) so that no skin is touching until after your first shower. Sleeping naked is not ideal as you will most likely experience rubbing on the skin/tan, resulting in lighter or darker spots and streaking.

  • Wait 8-12 hours to rinse after your spray tan if the regular overnight solution was used. This gives the tanning solution the ideal time to set. While you can shower sooner, it will lighten the color and lessen the longevity of your tan. If an express/rapid solution was applied, you can rinse much sooner, 2  to 6 hours later, depending on your desired level of tan.  Before I leave,  I will advise you on your rinse time. 

After Your Tan Has Processed

Your spray tan will take 24 hrs to fully develop. But you will rinse off the solution at the rinse time I advised you before leaving.  Aim to take a lukewarm (not super hot) body rinse. This isn't a luxurious shower - just a quick "bird bath" to rinse off the cosmetic bronzer and stop the solution from over processing. Use your hands to gently rub off the solution from head to toe, do this until the water runs fairly clear. You can use soap in your armpits and intimate areas but avoid lathering up your whole body. 

Cont'd

You're going to  see the cosmetic bronzer come off in the water.

Don’t panic! It will look like you're rinsing off your tan, you are NOT. This is a normal part of the spray tan process and is only in there so we can see where we're applying it - your tan is underneath and unharmed.

The bronzer colours do stain your skin temporarily but do wash off after a couple of showers. *Pro-tip > don't pee in the shower, it will show up as lighter streaks on your legs*

When you get out, PAT - don’t rub - to dry yourself off

How To Make your Tan Last

Moisturize morning and night (starting after your first shower) and always keep your skin hydrated. Drink lots of water! Your tan will fade as your skin sheds so moisturize away! This will help it last longer. Use our "Hydrate Me" Daily lotion - this is formulated to work with the solution and keep your glow radiant.

 Avoid exfoliation after your tan. When you’re bathing or showering, use a mild shower gel and go without the exfoliants or scrubs (this includes your loofahs and washcloths). Not sure if what you have will work? Just ask! I can recommend exactly what you need!

What to Avoid

Avoid moderate to intense physical activity until after your first normal shower 24 hrs later. (Umm… you’re welcome.) Anything that includes water or a lot of sweating should be avoided for a few days following your tan unless you're ready to start seeing your tan fade. This includes activities like swimming, working out, or relaxing in the sauna or hot tub. Even an Epsom salt bath should be avoided. Why? Because anything that dehydrates your skin - salt, chlorine, etc - will start to remove your tan and could result in blotchy results a day or 2 later.

Frequently Asked ?'s

  • How long will my Spray Tan last?

  • The tans last an average of 7 to 10 days. The longevity of your tan varies based on your skin type, level of fitness, daily activity, and how well you prepped & maintain your spray. Like a suntan, a sunless tan fades gradually as your skin cells shed. To help maintain your tan, apply lotion twice daily. I have products that work WITH your spray tan, they are specifically formulated to all work together.  Want a long-lasting glow? Regularly scheduled follow-up tans will get you there.

  • You can also purchase products that will maintain / extend  your tan at home, that are formulated to work together with your spray tan solution.

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  • Are Spray Tans Safe?

  • Yes. Sunless tanning is a safe and proven method for obtaining a tan. The active ingredient, DHA, is derived from sugar beets and is FDA-approved for sunless tanning. This is much safer than harmful UV rays, which are proven to age your skin and cause cancer.  As with any personal product, sensitivity can occur, but it is very rare. Sunna Products have actually improved some skin conditions. [this is not a medical claim]

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  • Do Spray Tans look Natural? Am I going to  look Orange?

  • Yes, spray tans have come a loooong way, they look very natural as long as the color is customized to your specific skin tone. I always customize the tan color and rinse times to the individual client to ensure a natural-looking tan every time. Something out of a bottle may not look as natural.

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  • Will a Spray Tan Give me Sun Protection?

  • No, an airbrush spray tan does not protect you from the sun. It is recommended that you use sunscreen when out in the sun. (always, everyday) Make sure you are using spray tan approved spf - otherwise it may strip your colour faster. Ask me for spray tan safe products, or check out y socials for the lists.

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  • I got a sunburn, can I get a spray tan over it? (new or old)

  • This is definitely not recommended.  Most artists will not spray over burnt/sun damaged skin as doing so can immediately cause the skin to dry out and start to peel, even if you're not peeling yet or its an old sunburn. Your tan will appear patchy/ blotchy and uneven. If you have an urgent situation we can review on case by case basis.

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  • How Often Should I Spray Tan?

  • How frequently you choose to tan is a personal preference.  I recommend every two weeks.  

  • It's ideal to have all previous spray tan colour removed before your next appointment, as spraying over an old spray tan can result in blotchy and uneven colour. Ensure you remove it all as best as you can with and exfoliating mitt or a tan removing product. I can recommend whatever you may need!

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  • What Should I Wear to my Appointment?

  • To prep for your spray tan appointment, you will want to wear (or bring with you to change into) long pants, a long-sleeved shirt - think loose joggers, not leggings, - and flip flops. I recommend going commando after so as to keep fabric from rubbing to tightly on your skin.  Keeping your skin covered protects your tan and ensures there is no skin-to-skin contact that could alter the color and evenness of the tan (For example: legs touching when you sit or walk). For this reason, we do not recommend sun dresses or shorts. Additionally, flip flops allow your feet to breathe because tight shoes can lead to the color getting really light or really dark. Plan to take your shoes off as soon as you can and let them be free for the rest of the day. If it's raining, which happens a lot on Vancouver Island, I recommend wearing footwear such as Ugg's or a loose fitting rain boot.  No socks either. 

  • As for the appointment itself,  female clients are allowed to wear (or not wear) whatever they want - this is up to your discretion and comfort level. If you choose to wear a bathing suit or undergarments, just remember that where they sit on your skin will become your tan lines, so choose wisely and take into account any upcoming vacations or events requiring specific attire (did anyone say “off-the-shoulder bridesmaids dress”?).     I recommend dark-colored garments for anything that you do choose to wear.

  • Male clients are required to cover genitalia.

  • I have disposable bottoms with me if you choose to try those

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  • How Many Days Before Your Wedding Should You Get a Spray Tan?

  • The ideal time is 2-3 days before the start of your wedding festivities, including your rehearsal dinner or any other pre-wedding events. It’s better to be too far from the wedding than too close. If you’re not sure when to schedule, I recommend erring on the safe side or calling  for advice.

  • I offer a clear express solution which has zero bronzer, so that means no colour transfer! This is ideal for Brides, bridal parties or any important event you may have coming up.

  • I also recommend a trial tan approx 2 to 3 weeks before so we can customize your tan and trouble shoot any issues that may arise, with plenty of time. If you're new to spray tanning it lets us know how your skin wil react and gives you the chance to learn how to properly prep for your big day and ensure your tan is flawless

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  • Should I Exfoliate Before my Spray Tan?

  • YES! This is such an important step in prepping your skin for the tan. BUT, do not exfoliate too close to your appointment, I recommend the night before.

  • Ever get your brows waxed and then try to put makeup on, only to discover it doesn’t stick? It’s the same concept here. When your skin is so fresh post-exfoliation, it won’t be able to hold on to the tan. Make sure you don't exfoliate any closer than 8 hours before your appointment.

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  • How Do you Wash your Face after a Spray Tan?

  • If you want to do a mask or peel, do it the night before your tan. After your tan, you should wait until your first shower to wash your face.  Pare down your skincare routine after your tan. Products intended to remove acne, even texture, or brighten the skin will likely remove your tan, too.

  • It’s normal for your hands and face to fade more quickly because you wash those areas more frequently. A touch-up spray like  the "Keep Me Sunkissed Face Water" and "Gradual Tanning Lotion" can help extend the life of your tan on your hands and face. These are available for purchase Here

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  • Will Swimming Ruin my Spray Tan?

  • Yes. Chlorine and saltwater both break down the spray tan formula quicker than normal. If you choose to go swimming, you may notice a rapid fade of your spray tan.

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  • Does the Spray Tan come off on your Sheets?

  • You may experience color transfer on your sheets after your spray tan. I recommend sleeping covered in dark-colored clothing for this reason or dark sheets. If you find that the solution has transferred to your sheets, NBD. Throw ’em in the wash, and it should come right out. Ditto if any transfers to your clothes. 

  • *disclaimer - most fabrics will wash right out but I can't guarantee every fabric out there so please use caution*

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  • What Takes Off my Spray Tan?

  • If you’re ready to say goodbye to your tan, you can use lemon juice, baking soda,  exfoliating gloves/scrubs, or take a hot bath (with Epsom salts for an extra push). Want our hottest secret? Dove bar soap is actually incredible for removing your tan. (for this reason, it not a great product to use on a regular basis, especially before your tan, as it contains moisturizers that create a barrier on  your skin)

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  • Can I Apply a Spray Tan Over an Old Spray Tan?

  • You can, but it’s always best to start with your natural skin as a base. This is key for achieving an even tan.  Spraying over top of another spray tan or at home  self tanner always risks looking patchy or blotchy.

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  • How Can I Fix a Patchy Tan?

  • How to fix your tan depends on when in the life of the tan you're experiencing issues. You can always call  for tailored advice, but here are some general rules:

    • Right after the tan: Circular motion during your first post-tan shower will blend out 90% of issues, but it has to be the first shower.

    • For a fading tan: The best approach is to remove the spray tan.

    • SOS patchiness: If you don’t have time to remove the tan, throw a little cosmetic bronzer on to help blend the patchy area.
       

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