With the hazards of the sun and skin cancer rates climbing, more people are looking for better alternatives to tanning that don’t require lying out in the sun or in a tanning bed. Self-tanners can do the trick but even those come with bad outcomes such as streaks, missed spots or that horrible orange color. Airbrush tanning is quickly becoming the must-have tan without the risk.

Airbrush tanning is a process that is quick, clean and allows anyone to achieve a natural looking tan without putting your skin at risk with UV rays. Like the art form, airbrush tanning involves the use of special equipment that basically sprays an even shade of color over the entire body. The advantages to airbrush tanning are numerous compared to using self-tanners, tanning beds, and lying out in the sun.

The process of applying an airbrush tan is usually fast and effortless, compared to the time consuming method of applying self-tanning lotion or gel to your body. This method allows the hands and feet to get even coverage, which is usually a problem area when it comes to self-tanning products. Each session results in a tan that lasts anywhere between 5-10 days.

Airbrush tanning uses a special ingredient called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, which is a clear liquid. FDA approved, DHA has been in use for 30 years and works with the skin’s amino acids in the outer layer. Airbrush tanning “stains” the skin through the use of DHA attaching itself to dead skin cells. This interaction is responsible for the change in color. After a few days, the skin cells fall off naturally, which in turn causes the tan to fade gradually.

So far the practice of airbrush tanning is deemed perfectly safe but the Board of Cosmetology does promote doing research on the process beforehand. DHA is meant for external use only and should never be sprayed on the eyes, nose or mouth and shouldn’t be inhaled or ingested. When getting an airbrush tan it is recommended to wear the proper safety equipment, which includes eye goggles, nose and earplugs and balm for the lips.

Before getting an airbrush tan, it is best to thoroughly exfoliate your body to get rid of layers of dead skin to avoid a blotchy appearance. Do not wear lotion, makeup, perfume or deodorant beforehand. It is encouraged to wear a bathing suit during the process to get as much coverage as possible. The airbrush artist will spray your body using quick, sweeping motions until you get the shade you want. After taking a few minutes for the DHA to set, you’re done! The best way to maintain your tan is by moisturizing your skin daily to keep your tan looking healthy and fresh. The place where you get your airbrush tan done will inform you on the proper way to care for your tan and you can go back as often as you please without damaging your skin.

Prices for airbrush tanning varies by store so call around and compare prices. Don’t forget to ask for references as well as before and after pictures.

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