In order for the sunless solution to achieve maximum results, your client must follow a few simple steps in preparation for their spray tan. The following is a guide for preparing your client for their sunless tan appointment.
PRE-TAN PREPARATION
EXFOLIATE
Ask your client to exfoliate their body thoroughly, paying extra close attention to the knees, ankles, tops of feet, elbows, and the hands. The smoother the skin, the more even the tan and the longer it will last.
HAIR REMOVAL
Hair removal should be done after exfoliation to minimize irritation. Shaving should be done 8 hours prior to tanning appointment or a day or two after the tan. If shaving a day or two after their tan, client should use a new sharp razor. Waxing or depilatory use needs to be done a day or two before the tan to minimize irritation. Waxing can remove your new color as the tan is only on the surface of the skin.
SKIN PREP
Skin should be free of make-up, deodorants, moisturizers, perfume or oils, and body sprays.
WHAT TO WEAR TO APPOINTMENT
The client will need to wear loose dark clothing to prevent any bronzer rubbing off on their clothes and to prevent any constricting clothing from causing them to sweat their tan off before it has a chance to develop.
What client wears to get spray tanned will depend on if they want tan lines or not. Also, it will depend on client’s comfort level as well. Client can wear an old bra and panties or a bathing suit; however, let them know there will be some cosmetic bronzer that will rub off on them. You can also provide client with a disposable bra and/or panties. The solution washes out of most fabrics just fine; however, it’s not recommended to wear silk or satin. The client will need to be careful on leather car seats or furniture. If client has a special event coming up where they may be wearing a strapless dress, remind them of tan lines as they may not want to wear a bra when you spray them.
RECOMMENDED
Ask client the reason for their tan. If their tan is for a special occasion, this may affect the timing of their appointment. If there is an upcoming event such as a wedding and they’re nervous, you might want to recommend they have a trial spray tan no less than 3 weeks before their event so they know what to expect, and they can see the color that will develop. If spraying a solution with a bronzer in it, it’s recommended to spray brides 3 days before their wedding to minimize the risk of color getting on their dress due to perspiring. Also, if client has extremely sensitive skin and is concerned about having a reaction, have them stop by to do a patch test first, although the likelihood of an allergic reaction is very small.
POST-TAN CARE
SHOWERING
Make sure you tell your client that they will need to wait to shower for at least 6-8 hours (unless a rapid tan).
ACTIVITIES
Instruct client to stay away from any activity that causes them to sweat until their tan is developed and the bronzer has been rinsed away. Client will need to pay close attention to using water and avoid splashing water up their arms until after showering.
