Airbrush tanning has become very popular in the past few years. This option of tanning provides a beautiful color without harmful UV rays. However, there are some unexpected side effects like any other form of tanning.
Many people may freak out when they see the initial color of their airbrush tan. This is perfectly normal and not a reason for excessive worry. In fact, there are many ways to deal with these problems. Here are 10 airbrush tanning problems and solutions.
Airbrush Tanning Problems and Solutions
1. Orange Color
The most common complaint is that the tanning solution takes on an orangey color during the initial “tan” stage. This color change can be very startling to someone who is expecting a nice golden brown tan. This orange color occurs because the client has not exfoliated enough.
Solution
- Exfoliate more before airbrush tanning and take a shower before your appointment.
- Take a loofah and scrub your entire body.
- Scrub your elbows, knees, and ankles.
2. Streaky Tan
Another problem with airbrush tanning is the streaks that can occur. There are many reasons your tan looks streaky such as:
- The client is not exfoliating enough before tanning. Exfoliating the skin helps to take off any dead skin cells that can block the spray from absorbing into the skin.
- Not allowing enough time for the solution to dry before getting dressed.
- Not properly drying off your hands and feet after applying the tanning solution. Hands and feet can hold a large amount of water. Drying these areas is essential to get an even spray tan.
Solution
- Make sure you exfoliate your skin and take a shower before your appointment.
- Allow the solution to dry for at least 15 minutes before you get dressed, or put on any clothing that may come in contact with your tanning solution.
- Make sure you have dried your hands and feet thoroughly before having them sprayed.
3. Inconsistent Spray Tan
The spray tan can appear very inconsistent if a client has a lot of hair on their body. The airbrush tanner must spray many solutions to cover the hair. It can cause the solution to appear blotchy in these areas because only a small amount of tanning solution can reach the skin.
Solution: If you have fuzzy areas, shave them before your appointment or ask the tanning salons if they can shave them for you. It is important to remember that shaving the skin will cause temporary hair loss in this area, so do not try shaving a large area.
4. Bad Smell
The airbrush tanning solution can have a very strong odor during the initial application. However, this is very common and can be easily remedied.
Solution: Hold your breath and allow the solution to dry before you take a breath. Another option is to apply a moisturizing lotion over the area that has been sprayed. The lotion will help mask the odor and prevent the tanning solution from drying too quickly.
5. Dark Stains on Clothing
Many tanners are surprised to find dark stains on their clothing after airbrush tanning. However, you can prevent this problem by simply wearing an old t-shirt during the process.
Solution: Make sure you wear a dark shirt to your appointment and not take it off until you have showered. If you have already stained your clothing, apply a stain remover right away to prevent the stains from setting in.
6. Tan Lines
Getting a spray tan can leave you with an awkward “tan line.” This occurs when the spray misses certain areas and leaves them with a pale color. It is not pleasant, especially when wearing a bathing suit.
Solution: To avoid getting tan lines, make sure you scrub your entire body to remove any excess dry skin. Removing the dead skin cells before airbrush tanning will cause the solution to absorb better and more evenly.
7. Dark Odor During and After the Tanning Process
Some airbrush tanning solutions can cause a strong odor during the application. This is caused when the solution mixes with sweat from the skin.
Solution: Many tanners have found that using a topical or natural antiperspirant can help prevent the solution from mixing with sweat to cause the odor. Airbrush tanning before and aftercare is needed, and using a topical antiperspirant can also help increase the longevity of your tan.
8. Over-Exfoliation
Many tanners are tempted to over-exfoliate their skin before an appointment to have a smooth surface for their airbrush tanning solution to adhere to.
Solution: To avoid over-exfoliating, only scrub the areas you want to be tanned. Many times, the skin on your feet and hands will not need any extra attention and can be kept as is. You can also avoid over-exfoliating by asking your airbrush tanning professional in tanning salons to only spray the areas you want tanned.
9. SunBurn from the Solution
The sun is not your friend after airbrush tanning. So even though you have a healthy golden glow, make sure you avoid the sun completely.
Solution: Sunless tanning products are meant to give you a beautiful faux glow, not protect your skin from UV rays. Make sure to apply a wide-ranging sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher after your airbrush tanning session.
10. Skin Allergy
It is possible for people to develop a skin allergy after airbrush tanning because the solution contains DHA and other chemicals.
Solution: To avoid the risk of developing a skin allergy after airbrush tanning, make sure you do not use any scented lotions or oils on the skin 72 hours before your appointment. Also, make sure you wait at least 24-48 hours after shaving to prevent any irritation from the solution. Many people also find that using a moisturizing lotion after airbrush tanning is very helpful in preventing an allergic reaction.
Imp Note: Remember, these problems are easily avoided before and aftercare and should not stop you from embracing the benefits of airbrush tanning.
Summing up
Airbrush tanning helps people get an even glow all over their body regardless of their
skin type. However, there will always be some problems that can arise, whether during or after the application of this product. Keep in mind that an essential part of airbrush tanning is not letting any of these freakouts get in your way. If you stay calm, you will be able to overcome any of these obstacles.
