Spray Tan vs. Self Tanner : Which One’s Best for You?
One of my favorite things about living in Los Angeles is that I can basically tan any time of the year. I know dermatologists caution against soaking up too much sun, but there's just something so revitalizing about spending time in the sun. Also, having a nice tan can just make you feel like you spend your summer on Lake Como. But natural tanning sessions can do some serious damage to your skin. Say hello to sunless tanning, through a spray tan or with self-tanner.
Keep reading to find out exactly what the similarities and differences are between spray tanning and self-tanning.
Spray Tan versus Self Tanner
We desired to make an explainer about spray tan versus self-tanner because, quite frankly, we get it-and we know how confusing it can be. And when you're confused about your options, you'll more than likely choose out of frustration rather than education. That’s precisely why we’re talking about not just how they’re the same and different, but also how each work, how long they last, and when to do each one. This way, you’ll know which sunless tanning method is best for you.
What is a spray tan?
A spray tan is a type of sunless tanner, one that requires certain equipment in order to spray on the formula. The benefits of spray tanning include saving your skin from the UV rays while still managing to have that otherworldly glow. Disadvantages involve not really being able to do it at home, unless of course, you have that equipment, which again comes out to be pretty expensive. Another con is that you have to carefully apply it all over your body in order to avoid splotching.
Typically, a spray tan appointment will take about 20 minutes because you’ll have to consult with the person applying it, mix the colors to match your skin tone, and then actually apply the tanning solution. It’s also worth noting that the spray tan can take up to six hours to be noticeable.
Now that you’ve got the 411 on what a spray tan is, let’s go into how they work.
How do spray tans work?
Quite literally, spray tans use a chemical known as dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. This chemical reacts to the amino acids in your skin and causes darkening of the skin cells. Since the solution from a spray tan is applied to most parts of the skin, it gives a fairly even tan.
How Long Does It Last, Spray Tanning?
If you're wondering how to make your spray tan last longer, then we have got you covered. The answer is pretty simple, really: keeping your skin moisturized is the name of the game. You will also want to make sure you leave at least 12 hours between your spray tan and any water-based activities. Lastly, try wearing loose-fitting clothing into your appointment. If possible, wear dark colors to avoid your tan from staining your white outfits.
When To Get a Spray Tan
What Is a Self-Tan?
How does self-tanning work?
How long does self-tanning last?
If you get the good stuff, a well-applied self-tanner can last you up to a week. Obviously, that is a good three to five days shorter than a spray tan, but it's still a good duration. Again, though, you want to avoid sweating if you can, and definitely leave any exfoliating treatments for after you're back to your regular skin tone.
This will help extend your tan when you're using a self-tanner: moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. You can also consider getting an oil-free self-tanner to make it absorb into your skin much more easily. Finally, some have mentioned that if you have sensitive skin, the self-tanner may not last as long for you. To that, I say, proceed with caution if that is the case.
When to Self-Tan
As far as I'm concerned, the best time to tan is whatever the hell time you feel like it. Having said that, though, I've also found that there are more popular times to apply self-tanner. I mentioned them above: wedding season, vacations, and in winter when you are a little paler than you'd like. Even though I went all in on the spray tan vs. self-tanner debate, I know some of y'all are still going to choose to tan in the sun because it's just that good. And hey, I'm not here to stop you. I am, however, going to ask you to put on your sunscreen.
I'll also go one step further and ask you to wear some of the best non-toxic sunscreen out there to help protect your skin from those UV rays.
Whatever you decide to do, stay golden! Natalie Arroyo Camacho is a first-gen Mexican American writer living in the San Fernando Valley. She has written for Byrdie, Refinery29, Teen Vogue, and Well+Good. She is also the founding editor of Viva the Valley.
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