Spray Tanning

Spray tanning (also known as sunless tanning, self tanning and fake tanning)  involves the application of a topical product to the skin which produces an effect similar in appearance to a suntan. The tanning products contain DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) which reacts with the amino acids in your skin and the oxygen in the air causing your skin to turn brown. Different skin types react in different degrees to the solution, so we have a range of strengths that we can use to achieve different depths of tan. The tanning reaction takes around 6 to 8 hours to develop.

Your therapist will show you to our purpose-designed spray tanning treatment room, before discussing your tanning preferences and completing a custom colour match based on your skin tone. Once undressed, your therapist will begin the tanning procedure using an airbrush to lightly spray each area of your body in sections, and applying a second coat of the tanning product as needed. You will be asked to move in various positions to make sure even coverage is obtained. Once the airbrush tanning is complete, your therapist will leave you to ‘dry’ in front of a fan before you get dressed. Application of the tanning product only takes around 10-15 minutes, but we allow 30 minutes for the whole appointment to give your time to change before and afterwards.

To achieve an even long lasting glow, we advise you to prepare your skin ahead of treatment by exfoliating and shaving the day before. On the day of treatment avoid not applying deodorants or perfumes which can prevent the absorption of the tanning solution. Moisturiser should also be avoided as this can act as a barrier to the solution.

You will be provided with disposable paper knickers and a robe before being left to change in privacy, although you are more than welcome to wear your own underwear or even a bikini during treatment if you prefer. We recommend any clothing worn during the tanning process should be dark; although the tanning solution will wash out it is more likely to stain lighter clothing. After treatment you should wear loose dark clothing and avoid anything tight including a bra and socks which may produce a rub mark. If possible we recommend wearing flip-flops during the developing period.

Your tan will last around 5 to 7 days and will fade naturally as the outer layer of your skin naturally sheds dead skin cells. To make the most of your tan follow the preparation guidelines to ensure your skin is a receptive as it can be. After your treatment we recommend you minimise the time you spend in chlorinated water such as swimming pools as chlorine will make your tan fade more quickly. Keeping skin moisturised will also prolong your healthy glow.

Absolutely! Spray Tanning is much safer than risking prolonged over exposure to harmful UVA and UVB rays. The main component of our tanning product range is DHA. This has been listed with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 1973, and has been used in cosmetic preparations for almost 30 years. DHA is not absorbed through the skin into the body and it has no known toxicity. Please be aware that your spray tan will not give any additional protection from the sun. You should take the usual precautions when going out into the sun after a spray tan.

We use the Fantasy Tan range of products and professional tanning system to achieve the most natural, beautiful spray tan results. Our application equipment uses a medical-grade air compressor that is quiet and provides a strong airflow required for a smooth and even application. Fantasy Tan solutions have been formulated with precise amounts of DHA and do not need to be ‘caked’ on to achieve your desired darkness unlike some other brands. For information on Fantasy Tan, please see our Brands We Use page.