In our second “Spa & Beauty Virgin” article, we’re tackling winter/spring pale and pastiness with a complete run-down on our exclusive Sunbelievable sunless tanning services (by Leighton Denny). If you’ve never bronzed before, there are a few things you should bear in mind… that way, you won’t leave orange hand prints everywhere you go.
What is the difference between spray and lotion tans? Which one is better?
The difference is exactly as it reads, one is sprayed onto you and the other is a lotion that is rubbed onto your skin. Neither is better than the other – it’s mainly personal preference. Yhe spray is a much faster method of application compared to the lotion… so for time starved people, this usually makes it the most popular! But the result is mainly the same.
What should I do to prepare for my tanning?
Ensure that you start to exfoliate your skin in the 3 days prior to your tanning appointment. This will lift off all the dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling silky smooth. After this, keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
On the day of your tan, try to come into the salon straight from the shower. Perish the thought of leaving the house with no make-up, moisturiser, deodorant or perfume on – but it’s the best way to achieve maximum results!
Ensure you bring some loose dark clothes and flip flops with you to make sure that your tan is not smudged by closed toed shoes and socks. Once you are here, we will apply some moisturiser to the drier areas of your body and apply your tan.
What should I do to prepare for my tanning?
Ensure that you start to exfoliate your skin in the 3 days prior to your tanning appointment. This will lift off all the dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling silky smooth. After this, keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
On the day of your tan, try to come into the salon straight from the shower. Perish the thought of leaving the house with no make-up, moisturiser, deodorant or perfume on – but it’s the best way to achieve maximum results!
Ensure you bring some loose dark clothes and flip flops with you to make sure that your tan is not smudged by closed toed shoes and socks. Once you are here, we will apply some moisturiser to the drier areas of your body and apply your tan.
When is the best time?
As with many things, this depends. If you like to look bronzed all year round, it really is whenever (though don’t overdo it!). For those who like to tan up for an event, it is best to come in 2 days before. This means you can go darker if you wish, or if you feel you need a touch-up. Bear in mind that your fake tan will deepen in colour for up to 24 hours
Will my Sunbelievable tan come off? i.e. in the shower
In the words of Leighton Denny: “No!” (well it really is that simple!). Colour is temporary, so your sunless colour will gradually fade just like a sun tan but slightly faster. Naturally, there are a few things to avoid…
- Avoid hair removal: waxing, shaving, depilatory hair removers.
- Certain skin products, namely products with alcohol, retinol, witch hazel, AHAs and acne products (those with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid).
- Avoid scrubbing/exfoliating products. Scrubs and masks can and will strip the tan from your skin, as will salt water and chlorine.
- Do not rub your skin with a towel to dry off; gently pat.