Spray tanning is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional tanning methods such as sunbathing or tanning beds. It is a great way to achieve a beautiful, golden glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding spray tanning that can cause confusion and discourage people from trying it out. In this article, we will separate the myths from the facts and provide you with the truth about spray tanning.
Myth: Spray tans are orange and unnatural looking
Fact: This is a common misconception that stems from early formulations of spray tans. Modern spray tanning solutions have come a long way, and many (including ours) use natural ingredients such as DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to create a beautiful, natural-looking tan. Oftentimes when you see someone with an “orange” tan (and we’ve all seen them), the active ingredient that gives you the color is VERY concentrated to give maximum results for all skin tones but that doesn’t work on the majority of people. Here at Glamour Girl, your color will be custom blended to your natural tones (no choosing Level 1, 2, or 3 here) by your airbrush artist - all of which are professionally trained makeup artists or colorists by trade so they know skin tones and colors forwards and backward.
Myth: Spray tans are dangerous and can cause cancer
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that spray tanning causes cancer. Unlike UV tanning methods, spray tanning does not expose your skin to harmful radiation. However, it is still important to protect your skin from the sun and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF when you’re showing off your spray tan on vacation. Talk to us at your next appointment about the best SPF brands to use that won’t break your tan down.
Myth: Spray tans will make you look older
Fact: Spray tans actually make you look more youthful by giving your skin a healthy glow. It will not reverse the signs of aging or prevent wrinkles and fine lines from forming so SPF is still key when you’re out in the sun. However, it can reduce the appearance of blemishes and imperfections by evening out your overall skin tone which means less concealer and makeup are necessary while you’re rocking your tan.
Myth: Spray tans will protect your skin from the sun
Fact: This is a dangerous myth that can lead to sunburn and skin damage. A spray tan does not provide any protection from the sun and does not contain any SPF. It is still important to apply sunscreen and take other sun safety precautions such as wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
Myth: Spray tans are only for women
Fact: Spray tanning is a popular beauty treatment for both men and women and can be a great way for anybody to enhance their natural skin tone and boost their confidence.
Myth: Spray tans are high maintenance and difficult to maintain
Fact: While spray tans do require some maintenance, it is not as difficult or time-consuming as some may think. To maintain your tan, it is important to moisturize regularly and avoid activities that may cause sweating or rubbing. Most spray tans last between 7-10 days, and our Touch-Up Spray gives you the ability to extend the life of your tan at home.
Myth: Spray tans will turn your skin green
Fact: This is a common myth that stems from early formulations of spray tanning solutions. Today, high-quality products (like ours) use natural ingredients such as DHA to create a beautiful, natural-looking tan that will not turn your skin green.
Myth: Spray tans are not suitable for people with sensitive skin
Fact: Reactions to the ingredients in spray tanning solutions are very rare. If you are worried about a potential reaction to the solution, it is important to do a patch test before getting a full body spray tan, which we can absolutely do at any time. We do have nut and berry derivatives in our solutions, so if you have an allergy to either of those, give us a call and we can walk you through your options.
Myth: Spray tans will cover up a bad sunburn and even out tan lines
Fact: This is a dangerous myth that can cause further damage to your skin. It is important to wait until your sunburn has healed completely before getting a spray tan. Applying a spray tan on top of a sunburn can cause irritation and will come off at the rate that your sunburn peels, which will result in an uneven spray tan. Additionally, while a spray tan can help even out mild tan lines, it will not erase them completely. Have a big event coming up that you don’t want tan lines for? Avoid getting them in the first place because a spray tan, unfortunately, can't camouflage them as much as most people would like.
Any other spray tanning myths you’ve heard that we haven’t covered here? Send us an e-mail or you can always check out our Spray Tan FAQ for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do spray tans give an orange, unnatural look?
No, modern spray tanning solutions have produced natural-looking tans, far from the orange, fake tans of the past.
Will spray tans make me look older?
Contrarily, spray tans can give your skin a healthy, youthful glow, and even out your skin tone.
HDo spray tans protect your skin from the sun?
No, a spray tan does not provide any sun protection. Using a sunscreen is still necessary.
3Is spray tanning only for women?
Spray tanning is a popular beauty treatment for both men and women.
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