It’s that time of year again to get airbrush tan. Shorts, bikinis and sundresses are all making their way from the back to the front of your closet. As summer fast approaches, you may be thinking of getting a MacMed spray tan to achieve a golden, sun-kissed look. Please do come in! We can’t wait to see you.
But before you come in to experience the wonder of the Evolv Airbrush application and Mystic Tan, here are a few tips for getting the best – and the longest lasting – results from our service:
Shower and exfoliate: Prior to your appointment, use a shower scrub or loofah to polish and exfoliate your skin. Dry, flaking skin is almost sure to lead to uneven results, even with master application. Also, by sloughing off the top later of the dermis, you will lengthen the life of your tan. Every week, about 25 percent of skin is naturally exfoliated. By removing this top layer of skin prior to tanning, you’ll find your color will endure longer.
Avoid bar soap: When exfoliating in the shower prior to your appointment, avoid using bar soaps, high pH shower products or in-shower moisturizers. Ditto for afterwards. Prior to tanning, these products can disrupt the bronzing reaction and result in less than ideal color. (Dove Moisture Wash is a common culprit). After tanning, these same products will strip and fade your tan more quickly.
Avoid water: For at least 3-5 hours after you tan, avoid contact between your skin and water. Water can stop the tanning action and / or cause streaking, Also, you should avoid chemically-treated swimming pools and spas for at least 24-hours. This will help prevent the color from fading prematurely.
Time your hair removal process. If you plan to wax do so at least 24-48 hours ahead of time. If you plan to shave, do it the day prior to your appointment – it’s actually another good form of exfoliation (as is waxing). However, both activities open pores and leave skin extra-sensitive. Give the dermis some time to recover.
Save the exercise: Don’t exercise or do any strenuous activity right before you come in for a sunless tan. Elevated body temperature, as well as perspiration, can lead to less than optimal results. For this reason, you should also hold off on exercise for about four hours after you tan. And turn on the car air conditioning!
Bonus tip: Wear loose clothes to your session and avoid tight-fitting underwear. Anything that’s pressing too much against the skin in the hours after your session can remove some of the application and lead to a patchy result.
We at Mac Med would love to see you for an airbrush tan. So come on over and treat yourself to some golden glow. We promise you’ll adore the results.
Just for fun: To see some great – and awful – celebrity sunless airbrush tans, see this slideshow.