Spray Tanning

Tanning has been popular since the early 20th century, yet with the general public becoming increasingly aware of the health risks associated with ultra violet rays from both the natural sun and sun beds what is the alternative?

Since about 2000, sunless spray tanning has taken the tanning world by storm. It has provided both men and women with a way to get and maintain a healthy-looking, even tan without being exposed to the sun's rays or those of a tanning bed. Furthermore, unlike previous sunless tanning methods which have received bad press for leaving the clients skin orange, streaky and patchy, spray tanning claims to provide a flawless result.

So how exactly does this relatively new tanning technique work? Spray tanning involves applying a special mist to the body. This mist is sprayed onto the body in either a booth, which you can now find at most higher-end tanning salons and spas, or by the therapist themselves. The mist emitted contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is a chemical that reacts with dead skin cells by cosmetically dyeing them brown. So after spray tanning, the skin takes on a golden brown color that usually looks like a natural tan.
Depending on the brand of spray tan used, the mist will either be water or oil based. Therapists suggest that clients with sensitive skin should ensure that the spray tan they are having is water based.
Most salons offer different types of mists, allowing you to choose the level of darkening. The fairer you are, the lighter the mist you should choose, as opting for a spray tan too dark for your complexion will make it instantly recognisable as a fake.
Most spray tans will last up to approximately ten days, however there are certain measures you can take (before and after your spray tanning session) to ensure that your tan lasts as long as possible.
As the top layer of skin is the part that's dyed by the DHA, your spray tan will wear off once the top layer of dead skin peels off. To keep the top layer of your skin from shedding as quickly and thus prolong the life of your spray tan you must simply exfoliate before you have the treatment and moisturise your skin everyday after. Furthermore, after having a spray tan, you should try not to shower and refrain from strenuous activity which may cause you sweat try not to sweat or shower for a minimum of four hours. This will allow the DHA to take full effect. If you follow these simple steps, you should be able to maintain an optimal tan for about five days.

If you are interested in tanning, look at beautyguild.com, the website for tanning experts and cosmetics professionals. The Guild of Professional Beauty Therapists is the trade association for tanning experts and salons with different tanning techniques. The beautyguild.com website allows you to find a tanning range offered in a local salon that is within easy reach.

Professional therapists who offer tanning offer a range of technique to suit your tanning requirements and will offer advice on tanning routines as well as tanning for special occasions. Wedding tanning routines are especially important as the tanning range can help prepare the skin and then get the right tan on the day (not too orange or patchy) to help you feel great on your wedding day.

Tanning experts train in beauty for 2 years at beauty or Cosmetics College. The tanning products they use are professional, unlike some tanning products that are generally available in the beauty and tanning sections of high street department stores. Your tanning expert or therapist will be able to advise you on the best tanning habits and techniques and tanning products especially for you. The tanning advice she gives you will make best use of the tanning ranges used in treatments. If you are interested in tanning and beauty then visit the beautyguild.com website, the home of the Guild of Professional Beauty Therapists, specialists in tanning ranges and tanning routines and products.