At Tantalum, we strive to provide VIP service. Whether you're new to spray tanning or a spray tan expert, we will ensure you have everything you need so you feel
confident and ready for your appointment.
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How you prepare for and maintain your spray tan is extremely important and will make a significant difference in the final result and longevity of your sunless tan. Achieving a flawless result requires a team effort — 50% comes from the spray tan artist and the other 50% comes from you, our valued client.
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Follow these tips and tricks for optimum results, and rock your gorgeous glow!
- 01
Shaving and waxing should be done 24 - 48 hours prior to your appointment. This allows time for a shower or two before your spray tan appointment to ensure that all wax or other residue is completely removed from the skin. Wax can stay on the skin and make it difficult for the tanning solution to hold and apply smoothly.
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It is not recommended you take a shower just before your spray tan session, however, if you absolutely must shower before your appointment, try to take it at least 3 hours prior (if possible). Aim for a 60 second - ‘in and out’ - COLD rinse. Although a hot shower sounds relaxing, the steam will cause the pores to open up which could negatively affect the results of the tan. DO NOT use any product like soap or shampoo to ensure no residue is left on the skin.
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***Pores need time to close and tighten before the solution is applied to the skin. If the pores are open at the time of your session, the skin may not absorb the solution properly and/or the cosmetic bronzer could soak into the pores leaving tiny brown spots on the skin.
- 02
Exfoliation is one of the most important steps in prepping your skin to ensure a flawless result that will last for 7-10 days.
Exfoliate the skin at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. If you can, exfoliate your skin 2-4 times before your session. We do not recommend exfoliating the day of the session to avoid any issues like product residue staying on the skin and/or open pores.
The use of a simple exfoliating soap will not provide the best results. Body exfoliants, body scrubs, or body polishes used with an exfoliating mitt, sponge, or glove will provide a thorough exfoliation and remove those dead skin cells.
While the entire body is important, be sure to give extra attention to the areas of the body that are more rough or dry - heels, ankles, elbows, knees, knuckles, underarms, wrists, etc. Spray tan solution can sometimes stick to areas that are more rough and dry making these areas darker and unnatural looking. Give those areas some extra love with an extra scrub!!
***EXFOLIATING is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outer layers of the skin. Giving your skin a good scrub will produce new skin cells, forming a smooth base your spray tan will stick to. Sunless products will be absorbed evenly and the result will be longer lasting. If exfoliation is done poorly or skipped altogether, the final result may be affected and/or your tan could fade unevenly. In addition, your spray tan could fade or disappear prematurely and in the form of blots as the skin will go through its natural self-renewal process. The dead skin cells will shed naturally, taking your spray tan with it.
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Ensure your skin is completely bare when arriving at your spray tan appointment.
On the day of your spray tan session, do not use lotions of any kind, oil-based exfoliating products, gels, waxes, or shaving creams. Do not apply makeup, cream or moisturizer, sunscreen, perfume, or deodorant. These products could leave residue on the skin or create a barrier on the skin and deny the solution from developing correctly.
***If possible, moisturize your skin daily during the week leading up to your appointment. Hydration helps prepare your skin and will make your tan last longer. Do not moisturize your skin the day of your spray tan session.
- 04
Be sure to book manicures and pedicures at least one day before your spray tan appointment. A barrier cream is applied on the nails so they will be protected during the application. Having a pedicure after your spray tan means taking the risk that your spray tan will fade prematurely, as you will be soaking your lower leg in hot water for a long period of time. In addition, the nail technician also uses rough applicators and scrubs on your legs and feet, which can exfoliate your skin and ruin your fresh spray tan.
Avoid booking a manicure right after your spray tan appointment. If this is the only time you are able to go, be sure to let the technician know you just received a spray tan and that they should be very careful. DO NOT wash your hands as the tan is still developing - Remember to keep the skin dry until the initial rinse. and will cause your hands to look lighter than the rest of your body.
Lash appointments should be booked before your spray tan session. The solution applied on the body is a gentle mist that will not affect eyelash extensions.
Massages should be booked before your spray tan appointment. The use of oils and rubbing of the skin could cause your spray tan to break down and fade unevenly and prematurely.
Facials should also be scheduled before your spray tan appointment. Aestheticians use of masks, various products, and with a spray tan will be too harsh for the skin and all colour on the face could disappear.
Laser treatments should be completed and skin should be healed before a spray tan session. Similarly, we recommend waiting until a spray tan has been exfoliated and is completely gone if you want to receive laser treatment following a spray tan session.
- 05
Be sure to wear (or bring) dark-coloured, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment to put on immediately after your spray tan. Choose items that cover the chest, arms, and legs fully, if possible. Exposed parts of the body increases the risk of skin-to-skin contact or contact with other things and can cause the final result to be uneven.
The clothing items you choose to wear following your spray can have an impact on the final result. Be mindful of this and choose appropriate items.
Clothing items to AVOID following your session: dresses; tight leggings, or any type of yoga pant; jeans/denim; cami tops; bras/sports bras; shorts; tight socks; clothing that has a tight elastic, drawstring, or waistband; tight-necked tops; any other item that hugs the skin.
Clothing suggestions for warmer months: loose pajamas; breathable pants; flowy shirts or t-shirts; flip flops or sandals; light or loose cardigans; an umbrella on hand to stay dry in case of rain (droplets on the body after a fresh spray tan could cause the final result to be spotty).
Clothing suggestions for colder months: loose pajamas; loose-waisted sweat pants; loose socks; loose fitting shoes that cover the feet; boots/Uggs (as long as they are not too tight on the feet); big sweaters; zip-up sweaters; hoodies; anything with a hood in case of snow or rain.
Flip flops or sandals are a great shoe option for most months out of the year.
EXTRA TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND
* When choosing your loose-fitting clothes, you should not have difficulty putting these items on. They should slip right on without having to pull too hard. Remember, the spray tan solution is not completely dry once applied, so too much tugging or pulling when getting dressed after the application can cause the cosmetic bronzer to move around, resulting in an uneven tan.
* We recommend staying in your post-spray loose-fitting clothes during the entire development period — even if you have an evening appointment and you are sleeping while the tan develops (See Aftercare Instructions for more details). Changing your clothes could A) shift the bronzer around affecting the final result; B) heighten the risk of touching your skin with your palms, which will transfer colour to that area, making your palms look unnatural post-rinse.
* If you choose to wear a zip-up sweater immediately following your session, be sure to keep the zipper away from the body to avoid creating unwanted lines.
* Be mindful of seatbelts - pull it slightly away from you if possible.
- 06
The application can be done with or without any undergarments or bathing suits. You may choose to be fully nude during your spray tan session — this applies to FEMALES ONLY. You can wear as much or as little as you feel comfortable with during the application.
Men MUST wear some sort of bottoms during the application.
If you choose to wear a bathing suit or any sort of undergarment during the session, remember that you will have tan lines! Keep this in mind and put thought into what you choose to wear while being sprayed. Choose something that will not affect the clothing or outfits you plan to wear following your spray tan session.
- 07
This is an area that you might think has absolutely nothing to do with spray tans — we are here to tell you that it is relevant and extremely important.
We know all too well what it looks like when a client arrives dehydrated and has had nothing to eat prior to their appointment. From the time we prep your skin to the time we have completed the application, you are standing in one place for about 20 minutes. The combination of this standing time, holding your arms away from your body (to reduce skin-to-skin contact), and having an empty stomach could cause you to feel faint, dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous. We don’t want to worry anyone - this is quite rare. BUT in can happen and we want to take every precaution to ensure your safety and a smooth experience.
We recommend having a meal or a snack, as well as some water before your appointment, so do your best to plan accordingly. We also have candy, juice, and water on site should you feel you need it during your appointment.
Your safety, comfort, and overall experience is our number one priority. We are committed to being as accommodating as possible to ensure you feel good and you leave your appointment with a beautiful glow.
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Please notify us if you have a sunburn and/or your skin is peeling before your spray tan appointment. Under these circumstances, we suggest postponing your session and waiting until the skin has fully healed before receiving a spray tan. If you show up for your appointment and you have a sunburn and/or your skin is peeling, we will remind you of the risks and recommend rescheduling the appointment.
***A common misconception is that a spray tan will even out redness on the skin due to a sunburn. Truth is — most times, a spray tan on top of a sunburn will do just the opposite. Dead skin cells will shed naturally when you have a sunburn as they go through a natural cell renewal process. When you have a spray tan and your skin begins to peel, the spray tan will peel off with it, leaving you with an extremely uneven, patchy tan. In most cases, peeling skin is very noticeable because there is a contrast between the dark and light skin. Even if you show no signs of peeling during the time of the appointment, there is a good chance you eventually will.
If you choose to go ahead with the spray tan regardless of the risks, we CANNOT GUARANTEE that you will end up with a natural, even glow that lasts for several days.
- 01
The development period varies depending on the solution used and the colour you want to achieve. For a REGULAR tan, wait a minimum of 8 to 12 hours and no longer than 24 hours before rinsing. For a RAPID tan, wait 1 to 5 hours before rinsing. This is the period of time required for the development of NUDA spray tanning solutions. Your spray tan artist will be able to clarify this at your appointment and provide details about when you should rinse to achieve the perfect glow.
***Avoid touching your skin during this time. The topical bronzer that sits on top of the skin can transfer to the palms of your hands, which will result in your hands looking dark and very unnatural.
- 02
Following your spray tan application, it is so important to keep your skin as dry as possible DURING THE DEVELOPMENT PERIOD. Perspiration, contact with liquids, and/or the use of products can disrupt the development process — the DHA in the sunless solution will not properly absorb into the skin, causing an uneven or lighter result on the body.
Avoid contact with liquids - DO NOT wash your hands, be careful not to spill on yourself when taking a drink, no swimming, no heavy cleaning, and do not do the dishes (yay!!).
Avoid activities that provoke sweating — for example: working out, doing outdoor work, taking a dance class, etc.
If it is raining or snowing outside before and/or after your appointment, make sure your body is completely covered. Bring an umbrella or a garment that has a hood and cover your feet.
Do not apply cream, makeup, or any other products on the skin during the development period.
***The first time the body can get wet is for the initial rinse (see ‘RINSING’ section), which is done at a specific time. This varies depending on the type of sunless solution used and the depth of colour you want to achieve.
- 03
Your alarm has gone off! You’ve waited the recommended length of time for your tan to develop and now it’s time to rinse! The first rinse is intended to simply wash off the cosmetic bronzer, leaving you with your sunless glow.
*This is not a full shower*
When you get in the shower, gently use your hands (or a removable shower head) to rinse the entire body and face. USE WATER ONLY. Lukewarm water is suggested. Do not use any soaps or other products and avoid washing your hair. At this point, soaps and hair products may be too harsh on a fresh tan and could affect the final result.
As soon as the water hits your skin you will begin to see the cosmetic bronzer run off the body right away. This is exactly what should happen; you are not washing away your spray tan.
Be very thorough as you are rinsing to prevent the cosmetic bronzer from leaving streaks on the skin. Pay attention to areas that are harder to reach and easy to miss: behind the ears, back of the neck, underarms, in between the legs, back of the legs, etc. Don't forget to rinse your face! Seems like an obvious place, but this is a reminder just in case. Tip - cup your hands and gently splash water onto your face to rinse.
Rinse until the water runs clear. This should take 5 minutes tops! Do not stay in the shower too long.
After you rinse, PAT THE SKIN DRY — DO NOT RUB! Rubbing the skin with a towel when the skin is wet will cause the spray tan solution to pill or ‘ball up’ on your skin.
***It is recommended you take your first full shower (using product and washing your hair) after your your spray tan has reached its full colour. This is usually at least 24 hours following the first rinse. For example — you received a spray tan in the evening, rinsed off the cosmetic bronzer first thing in the morning, then took a full shower before bed or the following morning. For more details, see ‘Maintaining Your Airbrush Tan.’
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It is always best to schedule your appointment when you have little to no plans following your session. The less you do while your spray tan develops, the better. The best advice we could give would be to go home, lay in bed, and watch a movie. Drinking wine and eating peanut butter cups is also recommended...just don't spill liquids on your skin!
For some, the most convenient time to schedule a spray tan is in the evening, so you may be sleeping while your spray tan develops. If this is the case for you, here are some important things to keep in mind.
It is strongly recommend that you wear loose clothing or pajamas that cover your chest, arms, and legs. You should already have on loose-fitting clothing following your spray tan session, so we suggest staying in those clothes for the night while your spray tan develops. Avoid wearing shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops, and DO NOT sleep fully nude. The more skin you have exposed, the higher the risk of skin-to-skin contact, which could cause your tan to develop unevenly and create unwanted marks on the skin. Plus...you do not want to wake up to very dark palms and a hand print on your leg!
Keeping your skin fully covered will also help to avoid spreading the topical bronzer onto your bedsheets. Using a large towel to lay on to protect your sheets is recommended but not necessary. The accelerators present in the NUDA products could temporarily soil your clothing or bed sheets, but a laundry wash will remove all product.
Be mindful of the position you sleep in. Try to find a position that will allow you to move as little as possible while you sleep.
If you tend to sweat while you sleep, wear something on the lighter side, open a window, or have a fan blowing throughout the night. As mentioned above, staying completely dry is necessary for the development of your spray tan until the first rinse.
***KEEP IN MIND: You might notice marks, deeper colour in fine lines, and/or unevenness on the skin while your spray tan develops - DON’T PANIC!! What you are seeing is just the topical cosmetic bronzer moving around while your actual tan is setting underneath. This cosmetic bronzer will wash away during the first rinse. Know that how you look BEFORE you rinse is not a strong indication of what the final result will be. Wait until after the rinse to see your final results and feel free to contact us should you have any concerns at that point.
- 01
It is recommended you take your first full shower (using product on the body and washing your hair) a full day following the rinse (or after your your spray tan has reached its full colour). A good example would be — received a spray tan in the evening, rinsed off the cosmetic bronzer first thing in the morning, then took a full shower before bed or the following morning.
Here are some DOs and DON’Ts for every shower you take throughout the period of time you have your spray tan:
DO:
Wash using your HANDS ONLY.
Use product only on the necessary areas and just water everywhere else to prevent premature fading (this is just a recommendation).
Take quick showers - you may see your tan fade faster if you tend to take longer showers.
Use a natural, gentle body wash - Aveeno Active Naturals Body Wash and Cetaphil Daily Refreshing Body Wash are great choices!
Rinse your body thoroughly to ensure no residue is left on the skin.
DON’T:
Use loofahs or washcloths (too harsh on the skin and will cause your tan to become patchy or fade unevenly).
Use bars of soap or Dove products of any kind.
Use body washes made with mineral oils, petroleum, and alcohol (can cause your tan to become uneven or cause a faster fading).
Use any product or tool on the face or body that will exfoliate the skin (your tan will become patchy).
Take long showers and use very hot water (both will cause your tan to fade quickly).
- 02
Anytime your skin is wet — following a shower, sweating, swimming, washing hands or face, etc. — always PAT THE SKIN DRY — DO NOT RUB!
Rubbing the skin with a towel when the skin is wet will cause the spray tan solution to pill or ‘ball up’ on your skin, resulting in an uneven tan.
This also pertains to tight athletic wear. If you sweat and are not careful when removing leggings, sports bras, or any other tight items, pilling on the skin can occur and cause your tan to become patchy.
Keep in mind: The more friction occurring on the skin, the faster a spray tan will fade and become patchy. As a result of showering, wearing certain clothing, tugging on the skin with purse straps, and areas on the body that rub together frequently (just to name a few), it is normal for your tan to break down in certain areas after several days. It is important to be as gentle as possible throughout the time you have a sunless tan. Oh…and MOISTURIZE - which brings us to our next tip below!
- 03
Moisturizing is one of the most important steps when it comes to maintaining a spray tan and keeping it looking fresh for longer. Moisturizer not only keeps your skin hydrated, but it ensures your spray tan will fade evenly and last a full 7-10 days. Refraining from moisturizing — especially if your skin tends to generally be on the dryer side — will cause your spray tan to fade long before you’re ready.
Begin moisturizing after the first full shower and then continue to moisturize TWICE A DAY every day while you have a spray tan.
There are a number of products and ingredients that will either make or break (down) your spray tan. Not only can it be overwhelming choosing from the array of products available, you'd also be surprised to learn about some of the products and ingredients that you should and should not use while you have a spray tan. So…we’ll make it clear and simple!
When it comes to moisturizer, choose simple, gentle, natural. Always check the ingredient list on your products — it should be on the shorter side. Ingredients and key words you want to look for when choosing products to use are:
Shea butter
Fragrance-free
Oil-free
Aloe Vera
Coconut oil
Below are a few of our favourite products to use to moisturize with a spray tan.
Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion
This moisturizer revitalizes the skin. It is formulated with colloidal oatmeal, which prevents dry skin and locks in moisture, leaving your skin soft and smooth. An oatmeal formula can help restore and maintain the skin’s moisture barrier to help prevent and protect dry skin. It is also fragrance-free.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
This cream hydrates the skin, locks in moisture, and restores its natural barrier. Developed with dermatologists and suitable for dry and very dry skin on the face and body. Non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and fragrance-free.
Hempz Original Herbal Body Moisturizer
This fresh and lightweight personal favourite helps protect the skin and lock in moisture with 100% pure hemp seed oil. it also helps support the skin's natural oil barrier with shea butter and is made with vitamins A, C & E. Calms skin and slows aging with antioxidant-rich ginger root extract. Free of THC, gluten, and parabens, and is cruelty free. It can usually be found at Marshalls/Winners in the beauty section or at most beauty supply stores.
After several days, feel free to use a moisturizing tan extender if you find the colour is fading and you want to hang on to your tan for a little while longer.
Keep in mind: Even with consistent moisturizing, the colour on your face and hands will fade first and it is totally normal. Especially during these times as we deal with Covid, we use sanitizer and wash our hands often, and both will cause the colour on the hands to fade. In addition, facial skincare products, wearing makeup, and removing makeup will cause the colour on the face to fade before the rest of the body. You can use bronzer or a deeper shade of foundation on the face that matches the rest of your body and blend down onto the neck to keep everything looking seamless. Continue to the next section to learn about products/ingredients to avoid in order to keep your tan looking fresh for as long as possible.
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Below is a list of products and ingredients to AVOID while you have a spray tan:
Mineral oil - it will strip the tan
Fragrances (on their own and as an ingredient in product)
**If you wear fragrances and perfumes, avoid spraying them directly on the body. Spray
the product into the air and walk into it.
Most essential oils
Anti-aging products
Toners
Hair removal products
Alcohol
Retinol
Glycolic acid
Lactic acid (AHAs)
Salicylic acid (BHAs)
Face wipes/makeup-removing wipes
Scrubs and Exfoliators for face and/or body
Peel off masks
Fashion tape and bandages can also remove a spray tan
Keep in mind: Even with consistent moisturizing, the colour on your face and hands will fade first and it is totally normal. Especially during these times as we deal with Covid, we use sanitizer and wash our hands often, and both will cause the colour on the hands to fade. In addition, facial skincare products, wearing makeup, and removing makeup will cause the colour on the face to fade before the rest of the body. You can use bronzer or a deeper shade of foundation on the face that matches the rest of your body and blend down onto the neck to make everything look seamless.
- 05
Swimming
Long and hot showers and baths
Steam rooms, hot tubs, jacuzzis, and saunas
Massages - rubbing of the skin using essential oils will break down your spray tan.
Waxing - this will absolutely remove colour on the body and create a patchy spray tan. All waxing should be completed prior to your spray tan application.
Manicures and pedicures - soaking your hands and legs for a period of time will cause your spray tan to fade. We recommend having all nail services completed prior to your spray tan application as we protect fingernails and toe nails with a barrier cream before applying the spray tan solution. *If you have tips or acrylic nails and are wanting to book a fill, this should not affect your spray tan like a full manicure would.
Shaving - this one is more difficult to avoid, so we suggest using a fresh razor when shaving. A dull razor will exfoliate the skin and remove your spray tan.
Sweating excessively while sleeping or participating frequently in activities that may cause excessive sweating (such as hot yoga, dance classes, general workouts, etc.) will cause your spray tan to fade away faster.
We want to make it clear that we are by no means telling you you CANNOT do any of the above. We are simply providing you with recommendations as we want you to get the most out of your spray tan and really enjoy it for as long as possible. We will always educate and ensure our clients are aware that there are many factors involved so there are no surprises on your end. You can reach out to us at any time should you have any questions or concerns.
- 06
Maybe you’ve just arrived to a tropical paradise for a relaxing vacation. Maybe you are spending your summer at the beach or staycationing at ‘Porta Backyarda.’
You want to rock that new bathing suit and show off your confidence. You decide to get the perfect glow courtesy of Tantalum (wink wink) to take the edge off before heading out into the sun.
It is crucial to understand - A SPRAY TAN DOES NOT PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM THE SUN’S HARMFUL RAYS. Spray tan solution does not contain sunscreen and does not protect from UV exposure. When you have a spray tan and are planning on spending time in the sun, you must wear SPF to protect your skin or you will burn right through your spray tan.
While you have a spray tan, follow these tips for all your fun in the sun!
Whether in the pool or the ocean, avoid swimming for long periods of time as it can increase the chances of your spray tan fading faster and unevenly.
Shower/rinse following swimming in the pool or the ocean to help prevent your tan from fading prematurely.
Use a lotion-based SPF. Spray on/aerosol formulas usually contain alcohol for fast-drying purposes and will strip your tan.
Use at least an SPF of 30.
Apply sunscreen liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and allow the product to absorb into the skin. Be sure to reapply every two hours.
Apply SPF to face, ears, neck, and hands, as well as other areas of concern. Don’t forget your lips - they need protection too!
Many sunscreens contain oils and alcohol that can cause your skin to dry out and ruin your beautiful spray tan.
Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Lotion is a great choice for sun protection while you have a spray tan.
SUN BUM Original Sunscreen Lotion
This moisturizing sunscreen formula will protect your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays while enriching your skin with Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals, which are the main cause of premature skin aging. Broad Spectrum Protection, Hypoallergenic, Oxybenzone Free, Octinoxate Free, Cruelty Free, Vegan, Oil Free, Paraben Free, Gluten Free, PABA Free, Water Resistant (80 Minutes).
- 07
We have come full circle. You have rocked your sunless glow and it is time to prep your skin for a brand new, fresh spray tan. We start and end the entire airbrush spray tan process by EXFOLIATING.
When your spray tan begins to fade or is becoming very patchy and you are ready to say goodbye, it is essential to exfoliate the skin again in order to remove the old tan residue.
Gently exfoliate your skin from head to toe. You may need to exfoliate a few times in order to remove all tan residue, as well as prep your skin for a new spray tan application (see preparation instructions). Use an exfoliating product and a mitt to create the perfect canvas.
The time wherein a spray tan begins to fade is usually between the 6-10 day mark, but it is different for everyone. There are also several factors to consider, including what your skin is like, the day-to-day activities that took place while you have your spray tan, and how well you took care of your spray tan.
It is important to keep in mind that although the entire spray tan process and all the steps seem overwhelming, especially if it is your first experience, we promise it is very easy. And trust us…you will be a pro after your first experience with airbrush spray tans! Feel free to contact Tantalum anytime with any questions. We want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your sunless glow experience.
