Spray Tanning

Here’s the dream: floating on cerulean waters off the coast of a private island sipping fruit-filled cocktails while your skin colour deepens on a dreamy, bronze.

We may not be able to help you out with the private island, but we can help you become the sun-kissed goddess that you deserve to be. A good fake tan can help you achieve look that Insta-worthy glow.

The Kardashians do not live on a tropical island, they just have a good spray tan. This sunless option is also better for your skin compared to constant sun exposure. It can help you look more toned by creating muscle definition and enhancing angles. The treatment can also camouflage concerns such as varicose veins, cellulite or discolouration. Automatic abs and cellulite-free bottoms? We’re sold.

Here’s the low-down on going golden brown

Book an appointment

If you have a big event, schedule your spray tan at least two days before. This gives it time to settle and allows you to smooth out any issues such as unevenness.

Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate

The step so important, we had to say it thrice. Do this the day before to allow the pores of your skin to close. This provides a smooth base for your tan, and helps to prolong its effects.

It can also help to remove remnants of an old spray tan, which can make your new one patchy and flaky. Follow up with a moisturiser that is oil-free. We like products that have cocoa butter or aloe vera in them.

Getting your tan on

Your spray tan expert will coat your skin in an incredibly fine mist. They will then help you blend it on areas that tend to blotch like your elbows. Then, they will help you dry your skin to avoid streaking. Wear loose clothes after your appointment.

Top tip: gently contour your collar bones – it’ll make you look instantly slimmer.

Aftercare

Do not apply lotion to your skin right after a tan. They develop better on dry skin. After the first day, the tan should develop into a natural, golden colour. When showering, do not use a loofah or a scrub. Be gentle.

After your colour has developed, be sure to apply lotion to your skin because moisture is the essence to wetness, and wetness is the essence of a long-lasting tan. Ironically, sunscreen can cause your tan to prematurely fade so apply a layer of body oil before you slip, slop slap.

Common spray tan mistakes and how to fix them

If your spray tan is less sun-kissed than it is Sunkist (orange, that is), you don’t have to lock yourself in the bathroom and pray that it fades. Here are some quick solutions to help you look like the most golden version of yourself:

Too dark all over?

Exfoliate and soak. Start by dry brushing to loose any dead skin cells, and soak in the tub for 10 minutes to lift the colour. Finish by exfoliating with either a physical or chemical exfoliater. There are also tan removers available.

If your skin’s PH balance is high, this can result in an unnatural, orange tan. Your pH level is higher on your hands and your feet so it important to moisturisers beforehand. Washing your skin also raises your pH so do not apply the tan immediately after using soap.

An easy solution is to jump into a swimming pool. Chlorine removes self-tanner.

Your face is darker than the rest of your body

Wash your face with a gentle scrub, and then use a glycolic peel. This will lighten the skin just enough.

Struck by streaks?

If you have dark splotches, you can grab some cotton balls and your nail polish remover. The acetone in it fades the chemical responsible for skin darkening. Rinse it off carefully, and moisturise after using.

If your streaks are lighter, buff the skin to even it out.

At Bookwell, we make sure that you book well. Make an appointment with one of our spray-tanning specialist for that Insta-worthy glow.