Do you want to get the best tan possible without exposing yourself to harmful UV rays? Then spray tanning may be right for you.

Why Spray Tanning?

Spray tanning produces results that are often as good as you get from a tanning bed or lying out in the sun. You can also do it without increasing the risk of skin cancer. Many people (especially celebrities) prefer spray tanning over sun tanning to give more control in achieving a specific look.

You might ask yourself, “Why can’t I use a sunless tanning lotion instead of getting a spray tan?” Sunless lotion may be the cheapest option, but you’ll also get the cheapest results. Many people also complain that sunless options look fake and turn your skin orange. If you ask me, it’s better to look pale than to look orange.

What Is It?

Spray tanning usually refers to when you tan in a booth. However, people often use it synonymously with airbrush tanning, which is when you or another person uses a spray tan machine (i.e. a spray gun or airbrush) to spray your body. Both methods can give roughly similar results, so it’s up to a matter of preference. We recommend trying both options and seeing which one you like better.

It’s up to you whether to get a spray tan at a salon or at home, but it’s certainly easier to get a tan in a booth. A spray tan at a salon will usually cost you $50 per session, whereas a home booth will be a one-time cost. You’ll save money in the long run if you buy your own booth, and we all know that you’ll end up using it more (thus, looking better) if it’s in your own home.

If you want to buy your own booth, we recommend the MaxiMist Spray Tanning Commercial Overspray Extraction System. This booth has nearly perfected the art of spray tanning. It’s very simple to set up or take down so you don’t need to have it just sitting in your living room, it has a filter which can be easily removed and rinsed, and it’s got a sturdy frame. Best of all, it’s very quiet, so it won’t bother your family or friends while you’re using it.

Steps to Achieve the Best Spray Tan

Whether you’re using a handheld spray tanner or a booth, the following steps will help you prepare, apply, and maintain a wonderful spray tan:

  1. Exfoliate your skin really well.
  2. Wear loose clothing so that your tan won’t rub off afterward.
  3. Remove all clothing. It’s okay if you’re more comfortable wearing a bathing suit though.
  4. Apply barrier cream to your hands, feet, fingernails, and toenails.
  5. Put on a hair cap, feet booties, and eye protection.
  6. Follow the instructions from the salon. You might need to rotate your body, but they’ll let you know. Some booths even have instructions that speak to you.
  7. Make sure your arms are away from your body and your fingers are spread apart while the sprayers are working.
  8. After you’re done, blot your skin to avoid drips.
  9. Put your clothes back on carefully.
  10. Avoid showering with powerful soap. It can sometimes get rid of your tan faster than you’d prefer.
  11. Put lotion on your skin every day. It not only keeps your skin healthy, but it also gives it a better shine.

After you follow these steps, you’ll most certainly have a great looking tan!

The only downside with spray tanning is that it usually doesn’t last as long as a sun tan. Consequently, you’ll need to go spray tanning every two weeks or so. It’s a small price to pay to look good without getting skin cancer. Best of all, it’s fun!

Buy a Spray Tan Machine

If you don’t want to keep paying money for a professional spray tan, you can buy a personal spray tan machine. These are handheld devices rather than tanning booths. Many people find it easier to have someone else spray them. However, with a little practice, you should be able to give yourself a spray tan without any help. These are very affordable, and many people have just as much success with them as going to a booth. My favorite personal spray tan machine is the Maxi-Mist Lite Plus HVLP Sunless Spray Tanning KIT Tent Machine Airbrush Tan Maximist BRWN, as shown below:

Spray Tan Machine