FAQs: What to know before you glow.
How does sunless tanning work?
When you get a spray tan, a sunless tanning solution is lightly misted onto the skin using an airbrush machine. The solution is made up of two components: dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and a bronzer. DHA is a colorless, naturally-derived sugar that interacts with the skin’s amino acids to develop over a few hours into the long-lasting aspect of the tan, while the bronzer immediately bronzes the skin, but rinses off in the shower
What can I do to prepare for my tanning appointment?
We recommend exfoliating, doing any hair removal, and completing all other beauty services at least 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. We also recommend arriving to your appointment with your skin free of any deodorants, moisturizers, and perfumes as those products act as a barrier and can result in an uneven tan. As you’ll need to refrain from getting wet while your spray tan develops, we suggest scheduling your day accordingly so you can avoid showering, swimming, sweating, or getting rained on in the hours following your appointment.
What is DHA/How does it make my skin tanned?
DHA, also known as Dihydroxyacetone, is a colored, naturally derived, sugar based ingredient that when applied to the skin, causes a browning effect catalyzed by amino acids. This affects only the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis.
How long does the tanning appointment take?
All of our appointments are scheduled for 30 minutes. This includes the entire process from check in to check out. You should expect the spray tan part of the appointment to take about 15 minutes with the last 5 minutes designated for the solution to fully dry on your skin before you are then able to get dressed!
Can you spray tan when pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no studies that indicate getting a spray tan while pregnant or breastfeeding is unsafe as the DHA does not enter the bloodstream. However, if you are pregnant or nursing, we ask that you get your doctor’s approval before tanning.
What will my Boston spray tan look like?
The results of the spray tan will depend on the base of the individual’s skin tone. In general, you can expect to be three to five shades darker than your natural skin tone. We will consult with you at the beginning of your appointment to customize your tan and ensure it meets your glow goals.
How long should I expect my Brightbar tan to last for?
Our spray tans typically last between 7 and 12 days, dependent on your skin type and aftercare routine. Dry skin causes tans to fade faster so we suggest moisturizing often to maintain your tan.. Keep in mind that long showers/baths, hot tubs, heavy sweating, and swimming in saltwater and/or chlorine all tend to dry out your skin.
Will the tan rub off on my clothes?
The bronzer component of the solution may slightly rub off on clothing after the tan is applied, which is why we suggest wearing loose, dark-colored clothing. All bronzers can be easily removed with ordinary laundry detergents.
Can I go swimming with a spray tan?
Chlorine acts as an exfoliant on the skin and will cause the tan to fade faster. However, a water resistant sunscreen applied before swimming will act as a barrier to the chlorine or sea water and will protect your skin and prolong the tan.
What should I wear to my spray tan appointment?
During the appointments, women can wear whatever they’re comfortable with. We offer disposable underwear to all clients. Male clients are required to wear bottoms, either their own or the provided disposable underwear. After appointments, we suggest wearing dark, loose-fitting clothing to allow your tan to properly develop. Things like dark-colored t-shirts, loose-fitting sweatpants, dresses, and flip flops are great. We ask that you avoid wearing things like leggings, bras, and skin-tight clothes immediately after your appointment.
Do I need to use sunscreen with a spray tan?
Yes! You still need to wear SPFs when out in the sun as spray tans do not offer any protection against UV rays.
What is Brightbar’s cancellation policy?
Cancellation Policy: Due to the current environment, we have altered our cancellation policy to support our team and studio during this trying time. All cancellations or reschedules must be made 72 hours prior to the start of your appointment. Guests who do not cancel before the 72 hour time frame will be charged 100% of the service booked. All no-call, no-show appointments will be charged 100% of service booked. Please note that appointments booked within 72 hours of the start of the appointment may instead be cancelled or modified at least 24 hours prior to the appointment time in order to avoid a charge of 100% of the service amount. Due to the current environment, if you are over 5 minutes late for your appointment we may have to reschedule your service if it cannot be completed in the remaining time frame. If we do not hear from you 5 or more minutes into your scheduled appointment time it is considered a “No-Show” and your card will be charged for 100% of the service scheduled. All cancellations or adjustments made with less than 72 hours notice must be made via email to info@brightbarboston.com. Thank you for understanding and we look forward to seeing you soon!