To Spray Tan or Not?

graimondo · April 2011

Hi Everyone,

I am considering getting a spray tan before my wedding day as my dress is strapless and I want a hint of color. I can't go to tanning beds or spend time out in the sun without mega sunscreen as I have moles and the drs have said it is a no go. DOes anyone have any recommendations or experience with spray tanning or airbrush tanning that they can share? I would really appreciate it! I will definitely do a trial run about a month before the wedding to make sure I like it - but I am worried about it rubbing off on my dress on the big day, which would be tragic.

Thanks for any advice.

fallbride1109 · April 2011

I got a spray tan for my wedding. A little did come off on the inside of my dress (but I had used a tinted body lotion on my chest the night before also so I can't be 100% sure it was the spray tan). I always recommend getting an airbrush tan (where a person sprays you) if possible. This way, you can just spray the exposed areas if you are worried about your dress. Either way, make sure to do a trial so you can check the color, see how long it lasts, etc.

SarahF20 · April 2011

I actually work in the tanning industry and do not advise anyone to spray tan in a booth before a wedding. We actually turn customers away if they tell us they are spraying for a big event like a wedding or prom. Too many things can go wrong with the machine and turn into a horror story for your wedding. If you want color, I agree with PP, go somewhere that has a person that will use an airgun to do it. Many salons have people trained to do this and you run less of a chance of it being messed up.

lyndseyfaith · April 2011

I get spray tanned about once a month, and the place that does it always has somebody do it for me. Just make sure that you exfoliate the night before and don't put on any kind of lotion etc before you go in. Also, wear loose baggy comfy clothing and watch the weather (as you cant get wet obviously). Im sure they will go over the instructions with you. Also, if this is the first time you go, I agree with PP to have a trial run to make sure you get the right look.Ive never had any problems with it, and since the dr told me no more tanning beds...spray tan is a life savor. Mine usually lasts about 2-3 wks. Just make sure that you stay lotioned up afterwards.

Milsey32 · April 2011

You are smart enough to get a trial run first but like PP said, airbrush is probably a safer bet. Good luck! [:

Car&Ry · April 2011

I'm consulting my doctor in a couple of weeks regarding spray tan. I don't know how regular tanning is still legal ... but that's another story

I'm a bit concerned about my skin absorbing the checmicals from spray tan... so I'll ask my doctor.

jc04100657 · April 2011

I love spray tan! As stated in PP do a trial run to make sure you like it. I always go here, even if your not in Florida it has some great tips: http://extremetanandsmoothies.com/spray-tan.html

FaithCaitlin · April 2011

Honestly, I'd be concerned about getting one. It's good you're going to do a trial but I'd be so worried about my dress.

Get a trial and make careful note of how long it takes to dry, if it comes off on your clothes, etc.

lyndseyfaith · April 2011

Car&Ry a few years ago, I had 2 premalignant lesions that came up on my chest. Of course, they were removed and tested. The Dr. said it was prolly from tanning in beds (which I had maybe done 2dz times in my life) and said no more beds. I asked him about getting spray tans and he said that the FDA approved them as long as you aren't ingesting anything...so I think your fine as long as you dont eat or snort it lol.

Faith, once you let your tan set for several hours (I usually just shower the next morning), and shower Ive never had any problems with it rubbing off on anything. However, I would do (or not do) whatever you are comfortable with. NO point in having something like that on your mind to worry you on your big day

lthom17 · April 2011

I've gotten airbrushed before and loved it. I would go 2 days before your wedding (so Thurs. if your wedding is on Sat). Any reputable airbrush salon will give you detailed instructions on what to do/not to do. However, exfloiate and shave beforehand. Apply lotion on the underside of your hands & wrist, around your nails, lightly on top of your hands, around your hairline, on top of your feet, & on your knees. Apply chap stick on your lips and make sure you pucker them in so that no tanning stuff gets on them. Do not shower for at least 8 hours (check with your salon).

In my experience, my airbrushed tans lasted about 5-7 days.

After your first trial tan begins to fade, you need to soak yourself in a tub and scrub to remove the tan. You can buy a detox solution from from many places-- St. Tropez stuff is the best: http://www.lookfantastic.com/face-and-body-care/self-tanning/post-tanning-treatments/st-tropez-tan-detox-bath-oil-50ml.html. This will ensure that your wedding day airbrush is flawless and that you don't have left-over "spots".

Yes, some of it will probably rub off on your inner dress. However, I've heard of salons that offer a "bridal airbrush" designed not to do this...

To Spray Tan or Not?

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