Spray Tans At AO-The Space: Everything You Need To Know
Hi friends! I get so many questions about spray tanning and it dawned on me that a blog post is needed to answer all the questions and dispel all the misconceptions about the magic of a spray tan. Why do I call it magic? Because what else can instantly make you feel 10 pounds lighter and give you a week-long healthy glow? A spray tan, that’s what!
But why a spray tan? Why not lay in a tanning bed or lay outside with tanning oil? Did you know that the sun is responsible for a whopping 90% of visible changes to the skin? Photo aging is a direct result of cumulative sun damage that one has been exposed to throughout one’s entire life. Melanoma is the 5th most common form of cancer, as well as being the most deadly of all cancers. Yikes! Did you know that tanning beds increase melanoma risk by 75%? And there are 3.3 million people treated for non-melanoma skin cancer. Protecting yourself from the sun during the first 18 years of ones life can reduce the risk of some types of skin cancer by up to 78%. An annual skin exam is recommended to catch any atypical moles or questionable spots early before it’s too late.
This is why I love spray tans! Spray tans are a healthy and sun-safe way to glow as if you’d spent a week in paradise…without the risk. Unfortunately spray tans have gotten bad press, and this is so unfortunate. However, all technicians at AO-The Space go through a rigorous training to become the skilled tanning artists they are. We also use the highest quality solutions for the most flawless tan imaginable.
Did you know that AO-The Space has a Spray Tan Happy Hour every Wednesday from 4-7pm? Yep! Come during Happy Hour to receive $10 off all tans. We also offer Bridal/Party Packages: schedule a Party Package (minimum 6 people) and the host gets their tan FREE and the rest of the party gets $10 off (that’s $100 savings)! Student Special (with valid student ID): Bring a school friend and get your tans for $35 each. Must schedule them at the same time/day (savings of $30!) No friend to come with you? That’s okay! Get $10 off with a student ID. Military Service Members get $10 off with ID.
So many tanning salons are so secretive about their spray tan solutions, guarding the brand name like their lives depend on it. We are very transparent and even proud to use the world’s #1 brand of spray tan solutions: Norvell.
So what is Norvell Spray Tan Solution? Norvell is a custom designed sunless tanning solution made from all natural ingredients. This high quality spray solution results in a beautiful bronze tan in a matter of minutes. It dries quickly, allowing for a streak free, natural looking "just off the beach" tan. If you want to achieve a natural golden color, Norvell is a great choice for you! Does the solution smell? Norvell solutions have a raspberry almond scent, which is much more appealing than other spray tan solutions that leave a musty smell. Our clients love the scent of raspberry and almond extract and feel more confident out in public post-spray. Is it bad for me or my skin? The Norvell sunless tanning solution contains breakthrough micro-nutrient technology that delivers a potent blend of vitamins and antioxidants. The natural product contains moisturizing Aloe Vera in Purified De-Mineralized Water, Hawaiian Sea Extract, Sea Kelp and Vitamin C. All these ingredients nourish the skin and extend the life of the tan. All Norvell spray tanning solution are paraben free and there are Norvell organic spray tanning solutions available. Is my skin too light or dark for the solution? The natural formula works with the skin creating a customized shade of color every time. There is no skin shade that will not work with the spray tanning solution and you can choose from a variety of color options, ranging from original to double dark. All of the Norvell spray tanning solutions result in a natural bronze color, giving you a healthy sun kissed tan. What should I expect? The DHA, an active ingredient in the solution that is derived from glycerin (sugar), interacts with the amino acids in the skin cells producing a color change. The DHA bronzer will begin to activate within 2-4 hours after application, producing a beautiful bronze tan. Full DHA results develop within 18-24 hours and should last approximately 5-7 days. Norvell also carries a one hour sunless tanning solution that contains a proprietary amino acid propulsion system to boost rapid tan development, allowing you to achieve a bronze color in an hour flat. Does it contain sunscreen? Norvell does not contain sunscreen, therefore it will not protect you against the sun's rays. It is solely for cosmetic purposes and it recommended that users apply a high SPF sunscreen after the solution has fully developed and one shower has been taken.
Here’s some frequently asked questions to make your experience a great one:
How do I prepare for my spray tan appointment?
The day before your appointment, shower and exfoliate to remove all dry, dead skin. If you have super dry skin, make sure to moisturize with a ‘sunless safe’ product. Shave & remove any unwanted hair at least 12 hours before your appointment. The day of your tan, make sure to remove all of your jewelry and leave it at home, lotion, deodorant, perfume, makeup and all other self-tanners. If you have dry skin, you may lightly moisturize with a sunless safe moisturizer. If you are coming to your appointment from work, we provide makeup wash so you can remove your makeup before your session begins. We ask that you arrive several minutes before your appointment to fill out intake forms, if you hadn’t already sent them in digitally. The morning of your appointment, or for best results, shower and exfoliate lightly to remove any additional dry, dead skin.
Can I wax, get a facial or massage, get a mani or pedi after I get a spray tan?
No, you always want to do those before your spray tan. If you are tanning for a wedding or any event, the tan is always the last thing you should do to prepare. Waxing, facial, massage, mani, pedi should ALWAYS be done first and spray tan last.
What should I expect when I arrive?
You will be given a quick color consultation to determine the perfect color formula for your skin tone. We will explain to you the entire process as well as guide you on how to pose throughout the tanning process. Once your session is over we will air dry you so you leave feeling dry and comfortable, in no way sticky. After your tanning session is complete, we will go over your rinse-off instructions as well as post care to prolong the life of your tan.
How long does it take?
The entire process usually takes about 15 minutes. The darker the tan, the longer it takes. Once you've been dried, checked, and approved by your tech, your session will be complete and you'll be ready to GLOW!
What should I wear?
We are a safe, judgement-free space, so feel free to undress to your comfort level. We will provide you with a shower cap to protect your hair. Once your session is complete we recommend you wear loose, dark clothing. Do not put on jeans, leggings, tights, or tight strappy tops like sports bras, etc.
Will I turn orange?
No, of course not! The Norvell solution we use is made to give you the most natural results. These solutions are organic and water based, non of which are orange. Just make sure to rinse off at the recommended time for the most natural looking tan possible.
How long will my tan last?
Depending on your post-care regimen, your tan should last you 7-9 days. You will want to make sure you prep properly before and after your session. Be sure to keep your skin moisturized and stay away from any product that is not spray tan friendly. To get the most out of your tan, use all-natural products that are specifically designed for sunless tanning. Avoid hot tubs and baths for at least 5 days post spray tan to help your tan last as long as possible.
I am under 18, can I still get a spray tan?
Our products are safe for all ages. However, if you are under 18 you will need to wear underwear during your session as well as have a parental consent form filled out.
Can I shave while I have a spray tan?
We recommend shaving the night before your appointment. However, if you cannot do that, be sure to wait at least 24 hours after your spray tan was applied and be gentle. Shaving is a form of exfoliation and could cause some of your tan to fade from shaving too soon after your tan.
Should I get a spray tan when it rains?
That is completely up to you. However, we are not responsible should you mess up your spray tan once you leave The Space. We definitely recommend you come in wearing long, loose clothing, socks and some rain shoes, a hooded jacket with pockets for your hands and bring an umbrella as well.
Can I get a spray tan while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes! Spray tans, especially being the organic solutions we use, are pregnancy safe. If you are breastfeeding, we recommend wearing a strapless bra or something to cover your chest during application. Although we use one of the safest solutions on the market, the solution is still not meant to be consumed like food. We recommend doing the One Hour Rapid or Venetian Rapid solution, so you can rinse off in just a few short hours after your visit.
How do I remove my tan after it starts to fade?
The best way to remove your tan is to soak in a hot bath, shave and exfoliate with an exfoliation mitt and a body polish.
How do I maintain my spray tan?
Avoid bar soaps, perfumed fragrance soap, exfoliants and products that are not designed for use with a spray tan. For best results when showering, use our “sunless safe” body wash. You should always use a ‘sunless safe’ moisturizer post-shower to keep your skin hydrated. Keeping your skin moisturized will help your tan last even longer!
Well, I have wracked my brain for any and all information regarding spray tans. Is there something I forgot to answer? Send us an email and I’m happy to update this blog! If you’ve made it this far, thanks for hanging in there. We look forward to seeing you soon at your spray tan appointment.
Stay healthy, stay well, and have a beautiful day!
xoxo - Jessie
