Airbrush Tanning vs. Spray Tanning

Two of the most effective and safe indoor tanning methods are airbrush tanning and spray tanning. Used by celebrities for years, they have quickly become popular alternatives to tanning beds and booths. However, although the two may seem like the same thing, they are actually two different services offered by tanning salons around the world.

Spray Tanning
Spray tanning involves stepping into an automated booth and letting a machine spray your body with DHA solution. Spray tanning has evolved to incorporate colors that look more natural and machines that offer more even coverage than before. If you want to avoid tan lines, the private booth can be entered naked. Hold your breath as the spray coats your front then take a quick one when you turn to do your back. The process takes 1 or 2 minutes from start to finish.

Airbrush Tanning
Airbrush tanning is when a technician uses a spray gun to carefully mist a coloring solution (DHA) along your body. Because this involves a professional, airbrush tanning often comes out looking more natural without splotchy or streaky areas.

Make sure to check if your salon makes you wear blocking lotion on your hands and feet. Blocking lotion prevents the airbrush mist from tanning the areas which it is applied to. If they do require this step, it is usually an indication that the technician is not comfortable with their technique or skills. A good technician should be able to give you a great tan and balance the color in areas like your knees, ankles, neck, feet and hands without the use of a blocking lotion.

If you're too shy to face the technician in the nude, you can still avoid harsh tan lines by lifting and pulling your bikini slightly above where it normally sits and by undoing straps. The benefit of having an actual person tan you includes being able to adjust your clothing so that it appears as if you don't have any tan lines. Airbrush tanning takes slightly longer than spray tanning but can still be done within a 15 minute session.

Airbrushing is also great for people who want to "paint in" muscles. A really great technician can highlight and shadow your natural muscular contours to make you appear more toned and in shape.

For both processes, you will require nose plugs and something to cover your eyes. DHA is safe but shouldn't be inhaled.