How to Apply Spray Tan

Avoid the sun with a spray tan!

Spray tan has become very popular with those who wish to avoid the dangers of the suns rays. It is one of the best alternatives to home tanning and offers a realistic looking tan from a bottle. Spray tanning supplies can be found easily at local stores. There are several things which can be done to improve results and give you the perfect maximum tan.
Make sure you plan ahead by setting aside enough time to use the spray tan system you chose without interruptions. Plan how to reach all of the places you want to apply the tanning spray. You may need to ask a friend to help you reach your back.

Things You'll Need

• Spray tan
• Shower cap
• Gloves
• Water based lotion
• Old towel

Instructions

1. Shower, shave and exfoliate before you begin your sunless spray tan. Your body must be free of any oils, dirt and dead skin to allow the tanning product to adhere better. You do not want to shave after you apply the tan because it will take part of the color away.

2. Follow with water based moisturizer and then wait at least an hour before using the spray tan. This will prepare your skin to accept the tanning spray without interfering with the self-tanner. Pay special attention to the dryer parts of your body such as knees and elbows. Lotions with oil may block the self tanning solution from penetrating your skin.

3. Use gloves to prevent getting spray tanner on your hands and turning your palms orange. If you do not have gloves put extra lotion on your palms and wash immediately after applying the sunless tanning product.

4. Read the direction on the spray tan bottle before you begin. Shake the can to ensure the solution is thoroughly mixed. Spray approximately fifteen inches from the skin.

5. Apply the spray on your legs first. Application needs to be swift and precise. Avoid the knee and upper leg. Begin by spraying a steady stream starting at one end of the lower leg and continue spraying around the leg in a circular motion. Do not go up and down. A steady pressure on the nozzle will create an airbrushed effect. Coat the lower leg completely and blot dry blending streaks for an even surface color.

   Continue by spraying tanning spray over the upper leg. Stop spraying where tan should end. Rub in spray completely and wipe knee with a damp washcloth. Do not spray the knee directly, but use the damp washcloth to blend the spray from the upper leg to the knee. If there is not enough coverage, spray the cloth lightly and apply to the knee.

6. Spray your feet lightly and use a cloth to dab and blend streaks. Remember your feet are normally covered and generally get less sun than the rest of you.

7. Continue to your arms using the same method as your legs. Remove your gloves to apply on the back of your hands. Put additional moisturizer on your palms to keep them from getting covered. Use the cloth to blot and blend, paying special attention to your fingers and knuckles.

8. Next spray your stomach, shoulders and back. Blend any streaks with your cloth. You may want to use the cloth to move the color up your neck. The area under your chin will be lighter then the rest and only needs a small amount of tanning product.

9. Be extra careful with your face. You can use a shower cap to keep the spray out of your hair. Don't forget to leave your ears out! There are two methods to apply the tanning spray to your face. I would use the first method as a beginner and then move onto the second when you have had more practice.
   Use gloves or soft cloth and spray the tanning product on your hands. Apply lightly and blot away the streaks. You can always add more later, so don't over do it.
   Or, slowly apply the spray tan using small circular motions. Be careful with the ears and blend carefully.

10. Let the spray dry for ten minutes before getting dressed. If you must put on clothes, choose loose ones which you do not mind getting stained. You should wait at least 4-6 hours before showering or performing activities which will make you wet or perspire.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your skin moisturized for a longer lasting tan. Dry skin will shed faster causing the tan to fade quickly.

• If you are afraid to use the spray on your face, look for a faces only sunless tanning product made by the same company as the spray to ensure the color will be similar.

• Apply lotion to cover the nail beds on your hands and toes.

• If you find any blotchy places such as knees, Use lemon juice to even them out.

• Cover the floor area to protect it from the coloring in the spray.

• The color will darken over a 24 hour period. Apply lightly in the beginning and you can add more later if you want a darker color.