Is Spray Tan and home tanning safe?
Yes it is Safe. The solution has been approved for external use by TGA; however, you should avoid getting it in your eyes, mouth or nose. Your Tan Artist should apply carefully to your face, without applying too heavy.
How long will it last?
There is no straight answer to this - every tan and everybody is different but most spray tans last roughly 7 to 10 days, though certain factors can extend or shorten that period. Proper prep and aftercare can have your tan lasting up to 2 weeks, but using chlorinated pools, saunas, excessive sweating, medication, hormones can all have your tan lifecycle being much shorter. So there is no firm rule on the duration of a tan.
Am I protected from the sun when I have a faux tan?
No. Spray tan solution doesn't have any kind of SPF in it. If you are going outside or will be exposed to the sun, you need to apply SPF and be sun safe.
Is there anything I should do to prepare for my spray tan appointment?
Exfoliate and shave the day before (or at least 8 hours before). This will get rid of any dead skin and provide a more even skin surface for the solution to be applied. You should only apply tan to clean, dry skin, free from moisturisers, lotions, deodorant, perfumes and makeup. All these can change the outcome of your tan.
Can I tan if I have my period?
Yes, but note hormones play a big part in the outcome of your tan, most people get different results right before, during and after your cycle. It’s best to learn how tans work for you during your cycle.
What should I wear to my appointment?
During your tan you can go in your birthday suit, or wear minimal clothing (underwear or swimwear) that you don’t mind getting tan on, and that you are happy with what the tan lines will be. Most salons will provide a disposable g-string. For after your tan, wear loose clothing in dark colours, preferably something that you don't mind getting tan on, most tan will wash out of clothing if washed immediately after use.
When should I shower afterwards?
Depending on your solution - Soft Natural Glow is recommended to wash after 20 minutes to a maximum of 1 hour, and Deep Banging Bronze 1 hour to a maximum of 4 hours, but this can be adjusted from person to person to suit your needs and desired colour. NOTE we discourage leaving on beyond the recommended time to avoid overdevelopment and risking throwing orange tones. It's crucial to avoid any swimming or sweating, or getting wet during this wait time with the bronzer on. And don't apply any products or moisturise, and don't exfoliate before this first shower. All of these things can make your spray tan uneven or streaky.
Is there anything I shouldn't use on my skin after my treatment?
Avoid heavily scented lotions, perfumes and cleaning solutions with acid or peroxide. Any harsh chemicals will wear away your tan more quickly. This includes skincare with very active ingredients.
Is there anything I should use on my skin after my first shower?
Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Natural lotions are best. This will ensure that your skin remains healthy and hydrated, and that your spray tan lasts longer and will fade out naturally over time.
What else can I do to make sure my tan lasts as long as possible?
For best results, use a tan extender for the life of your tan to get extra mileage out of your tan. While your spray tan is new, you'll want to avoid chlorine pools and spas, saunas, and any full body treatments that apply product to the skin (such as massage oils) as this can make the colour fade faster. In addition, cut the amount of shaving you do down to a minimum, as this works as an exfoliant and will also make your tan fade and avoid boiling hot showers. Once your tan has started fading naturally, you can resume back to your normal skincare routine.
I heard peeing in the shower will affect the outcome of my tan, is this true ?
YES this is 100% TRUE - do not wee in the shower. Besides being terrible for your pelvic floor, it will in fact ruin your tan. The ammonia in urine will cause the tan to streak down your legs, so avoid peeing in the shower.
Is it safe to tan during pregnancy?
Generally speaking it is safe to fake tan during your pregnancy, as the main (non toxic) chemical in all faux tans, DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) does not absorb past the first layer of the skin. In saying that, some tan companies use synthetic or unnatural DHA, whereas ISLAND VIBES uses the highest quality, 100% natural DHA in all our products. It's not recommended to breath in the particles, as there has been no official research on the effects on pregnancy if DHA is inhaled, so if getting a spray tan, ensure you are being sprayed in a well ventilated area, preferably with an exhaust fan on, and if concerned, for extra precaution, it is recommended to wear a face mask. Avoid getting spray tan in your eyes, nose and mouth. It's always recommended to check with your Doctor or medical practitioner first.
If I am pregnant will my tan still turn out the same?
Hormones play a huge role in the outcome of your tan, and as the hormones during pregnancy are forever changing, this too can change the outcome of your tan. Sometimes it means your tan may not “grab” and therefore your usual timing (wash off time) may no longer work during pregnancy and you may have to leave on longer. Or vice versa, your skin may absorb the tan more than usual and you develop colour much quicker. At times some customers have reported throwing more orange tones in some stages of pregnancy. This can also change from trimester to trimester.
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Please email us at hello@island-vibes.com.au