There’s nothing better than feeling like a bronzed goddess, but the melanin that turns skin from pale to sun kissed is actually a protective response to irreversible skin damage. UV light warps the DNA in our skin causing it to wrinkle and age, which is why it’s so important to wear sunscreen every time you go outdoors. So how do you protect your complexion as you age without foregoing being a bronze beauty?

 

Airbrush tans are a UV free method for achieving the perfect tan. Instead, our sunless tan spray uses a plant derived chemical called DHA. DHA reacts with your skin and causes it to turn a rich brown colour. That’s all there is to it! Your skin will keep it’s sunny glow for the next 4-12 days, depending on how quickly you, as an individual, make new skin and shed your old skin cells.

 

Physical Exfoliation Only.

To get a perfect, long lasting tan, you’ll want to exfoliate as much of your old skin as possible. That way only the newest healthiest skin is tanned. We recommend physical exfoliation only, using an exfoliating mitt for example. Avoid sugar scrubs and lotions which can leave a coating on your skin and cause your airbrush tan to run right off. In fact, you’ll want to wipe away all your usual products before your tan. Remove your makeup and even wash away your deodorant or antiperspirant. You’ll also want to shave about 12 hour before your tan. Following these guidelines will ensure an even tan that lasts as long as possible.

 

Airbrush Tans Aren’t Base Tans.

There’s no such thing as a base tan — or a base burn. Both of these cause irreparable skin damage that will become more obvious as you age, and they greatly increase your risk of developing skin cancer in the future. Whether you choose to enjoy an airbrush tan before your holiday or not, it is very important to use sunscreen regularly to protect your skin.

 

Choose a Clean, Well-Ventilated Salon.

The DHA in sunless tan may be plant-derived, but that doesn’t mean you should be inhaling it. (You also wouldn’t want to inhale flour or dandelion seeds either!) When choosing the right salon for your airbrush tan, there are a few things to look for. The salon should be clean, and the staff should make you feel comfortable and welcome.

 

At  Cactus Club Salon & Spa, we completely understand why Canadians crave a sun-kissed look. Which is why we want to help Albertans achieve the beautiful, tanned look they want without forfeiting their skin’s long-term health. Schedule your airbrush tan with our friendly, experienced team today and become the instant envy of all your friends (at least until you tell them your tanning secret!).