FINALLY! The answer to the most popular question!
The most commonly asked question I get from clients is “How do I properly prepare for my airbrush tan?” Honestly, various factors go into the perfect airbrush tan, aside from the fact that we use our quality, top of the line organic solution, prepping your skin will properly ensure you get that flawless, long-lasting tan. I want to reiterate how important preparing for your session is, and how often it’s overlooked. I know many salons out there don’t do the best job at educating their clients with the proper instructions, I’m here to change that stigma. Knowledge is power, people! This makes for a win/win situation, you as a well-informed client are happy with your tan, and together we’ve eliminated the chance of post tan issues.
Exfoliation
It is SUPER important you exfoliate the day before or even a few days before your appointment with Intanity. I recommend you use an exfoliating mitt, these are available for purchase at our salon. Be sure to avoid a scrub that contains oils, unless it’s more than a day before your appointment. The reason for this is that oils tend to leave a film on the skin that can create a barrier and possibly block the airbrush tan absorption in areas where it remains, which will result in a streaky or patchy tan. Exfoliation is key so the skin can be a clean canvas. You’re a beautiful piece of art I’m going to work my magic on! With airbrush tanning, if the solution is applied to uneven skin, the older dead skin cells will come off first and cause a blotchy look and will fade poorly.
No-Nos!
You shouldn’t have any self-tanner or remnants from an old airbrush tan. This is a huge no-no and sadly, I see it all too often. It’s like if you went and got a manicure and they just painted over your chipped polish. It might look good for a day or so, but when you look up close it’ll look horrible and messy. I’m sure if a nail tech tried to pull that on you, you would be livid! Well, an airbrush tan is no exception, and it would be worse since it’s your whole body.
Pre-Appointment Hair Care
Make sure you do any waxing or shaving at least 24 hours before your appointment. Almost every time someone complains about streaky legs, I’ll ask them when they shaved, and 99% of the time it was right before their appointment which was the culprit. Remember- no oils, lotions, perfumes, or deodorant the day of your tan as they can act as a skin barrier. (Unless your skin is on the drier side. Lotion a few hours before your session is okay) This can cause streaking, green areas, or prevent color from being absorbed.
Skin/ Pores
Many clients think that they should shower to get clean right before the appointment. I highly recommend you don’t. When you shower, the steam will open your pores, and as a result, your skin will get hydrated. This can adversely affect the tan because then your skin might not absorb all the solution. This might result in a lighter tan and can cause beading on the skin. If you have an evening appointment with me, then it’s safe to say you can shower in the morning. I recommend at least 4 hours before, and just doing a light rinse with cold water. Also, If your skin tends to be on the drier side, applying lotion a few hours (3-4) before your tan will actually help!
Hopefully, these tips and tricks of the trade will help you achieve the perfect glow! I can’t wait to see you soon at your next appointment.
Click here to book your next one!
Xoxo
Rebecca Rudy, Owner of Intanity
