Readers are shocked by two very eye-opening statistics: Young adults who use sun beds increase their chance of developing melanoma (skin cancer) by 75 percent, and in the last 30 years, melanoma diagnoses have increased by 50 percent. If there’s one thing you do to keep yourself beautiful this prom season, we at Superior Spray Tanning urge you: Stay OUT of tanning salons!
However, we do acknowledge the importance of a (healthy!) tan, especially in those arm-and-leg-baring prom dresses. Sunless tanning is the safest way to tan without harmful artificial UV rays and so long as you do your research, you won’t end up looking orange. For a guaranteed orange-free tan, airbrush tanning (as opposed to the less-expensive spray-tan booths) is the right option.
Many girls shy away from airbrush tanning because it has a stigma for bestowing upon its users an artificial-looking tan. You want to look sun-kissed, not unnaturally dark. If you are fair-skinned, ask your professional to use the lightest shade available when getting your spray tan. Just like there are different-colored foundations to match your skin tone, there are also different-colored spray-tanning formulas.
To ensure a longer-lasting, flawless spray tan, though, some legwork is required. We recommend that you exfoliate and complete any shaving, facials, manicures, or pedicures one day prior to your session and no makeup, moisturizer, deodorant, or perfume on the day of. All of these things are barriers and can prevent the tanning solution from completely contacting the skin.
How you maintain your glow, though, is entirely up to you and what products you use. To ensure longevity, the best-practice protocol, including: applying moisturizer twice a day after your first time showering, avoid anything with oil (the oil will strip away the solution), avoid bar soaps and mild liquid soaps, stay away from body scrubs, baths, and long showers, and, if you find yourself in a pool, Jacuzzi, or the ocean, make sure to carefully apply waterproof sunscreen to protect your tan!
