Debunking Myths About Airbrush Spray Tanning
At BlushTan San Diego, we hear a lot of questions and concerns about spray tanning, and many of these stem from common myths or outdated information. It’s understandable—spray tanning has evolved a lot over the years, and not everyone is aware of the advancements in the industry. Whether you’re considering a spray tan for the first time or are a seasoned tanner, it’s important to separate fact from fiction so that you can make informed decisions about your skin and beauty routine.
In this post, we’re going to debunk some of the most persistent myths about airbrush spray tanning. From concerns about turning orange to worries about skin health, we’ll address the misconceptions and explain how modern spray tanning—when done professionally—can give you a beautiful, natural-looking glow.
Myth 1: “Spray Tans Turn You Orange”
One of the most common concerns we hear from clients is the fear that a spray tan will leave them with an unnatural orange hue. This myth likely dates back to the early days of self-tanning products, where formulas weren’t as refined and often produced uneven, orange tones. Fortunately, airbrush spray tanning has come a long way since then.
At BlushTan San Diego, we use high-quality, custom-blended solutions that are tailored to each client's skin tone. Our formulas contain natural bronzers designed to enhance your skin’s natural undertones, giving you a more subtle and sun-kissed look—not the artificial orange that was once associated with tanning products.
We also take into account factors like your skin type and desired shade, ensuring that your tan develops into a flattering, even color. When applied by a skilled professional, airbrush tanning delivers results that look completely natural and blend seamlessly with your skin.
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Myth 2: “Spray Tans Are Bad for Your Skin”
Another widespread myth is that spray tans are harmful to the skin, either because of the chemicals used or the way the tan is applied. In reality, modern airbrush spray tans are not only safe but can be beneficial for your skin when using high-quality, natural products like we do at BlushTan.
Our spray tans are free of harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. The active ingredient in most tanning solutions is DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a sugar-derived compound that reacts with the amino acids on the surface of your skin to produce a tanned effect. DHA is FDA-approved and has been used in cosmetic products for decades.
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Additionally, spray tanning provides a safer alternative to sunbathing or tanning beds, both of which expose your skin to harmful UV radiation. With a spray tan, you can achieve a beautiful, bronzed look without the risk of sun damage, premature aging, or skin cancer.
Myth 3: “Spray Tans Look Fake”
Some people worry that spray tans will leave them looking artificial or overly made up. This misconception usually comes from experiences with low-quality tanning products or improper application. A well-applied, professionally done spray tan looks natural, not fake.
At BlushTan San Diego, we specialize in airbrush spray tanning, which allows for precise control over the application process. We custom-blend each tan to complement your individual skin tone, ensuring that the result is a subtle, believable glow. Our goal is always to enhance your natural beauty, not to create an artificial appearance.
One key factor in achieving a natural look is choosing the right shade for your skin tone. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals and recommend a shade that will best suit your complexion, whether you’re looking for a light glow or a deeper tan.
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Myth 4: “Spray Tans Streak and Fade Unevenly”
Another common myth is that spray tans will streak, blotch, or fade unevenly over time. While this can happen with at-home self-tanning products or poor-quality solutions, a professional airbrush spray tan is designed to develop evenly and fade gracefully. Going overly dark in any solution will result in a more uneven fade because of the stark contrast between the client’s natural skin color and the dark tan fading.
To ensure the best results, we always advise our clients to exfoliate and moisturize their skin before their appointment. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, which helps create a smooth surface for the tan to adhere to, reducing the risk of streaking or blotching. After your spray tan, proper aftercare, like moisturizing daily and avoiding excessive scrubbing, will help the tan fade naturally and evenly.
At BlushTan, we use solutions that are formulated to deliver long-lasting results. With the right preparation and aftercare, your spray tan can last between 5 and 7 days, gradually fading in a way that mimics a natural tan.
Myth 5: “Spray Tans Don’t Work on Fair Skin”
Clients with fair skin sometimes hesitate to try spray tanning, fearing that the result will look unnatural or that they’ll end up with an undesirable shade. However, spray tanning can be customized for all skin types and tones, including very fair skin.
At BlushTan San Diego, we customize every tan to suit the individual client. For those with fair skin, we typically recommend a lighter, more gradual tan that enhances your natural skin tone without looking too dark or overdone. Our airbrush tanning process allows for precise control, so you can achieve a subtle, healthy glow that looks completely natural.
If you’re new to spray tanning or nervous about the result, we can start with a lighter application and adjust in future sessions based on your preferences.
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Myth 6: “Spray Tans Don’t Last Long”
While it’s true that spray tans aren’t permanent, a properly applied tan can last longer than many people expect. With the right care, your spray tan can stay looking fresh for up to 7 days.
To maximize the longevity of your spray tan, we recommend following a few simple aftercare steps:
Avoid harsh scrubbing: Use gentle cleansers and pat your skin dry after showering to avoid rubbing off your tan.
Moisturize daily: Hydrated skin helps maintain the tan and prevents it from fading unevenly.
Avoid chlorine and excessive sweating: Prolonged exposure to chlorinated water, like in pools or hot tubs, can cause your tan to fade more quickly. Excessive sweating can also impact the tan, so it’s a good idea to avoid intense workouts for the first 24 hours after tanning.
With proper aftercare, your spray tan will gradually and evenly fade, mimicking the natural process of a sun-kissed tan.
At BlushTan San Diego, we believe that airbrush spray tanning is an excellent way to achieve a healthy, sun-kissed glow without the risks associated with sunbathing or tanning beds. By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide you with a better understanding of how spray tanning works and why it’s a safe, effective option for people of all skin types.
Whether you’re worried about turning orange or concerned about skin health, rest assured that a professionally applied spray tan can give you the natural, even tan you desire. If you have any questions or are ready to experience the benefits of a custom airbrush spray tan for yourself, we invite you to visit BlushTan San Diego. We’re here to help you look and feel your best with a beautiful, natural-looking glow.
Book your appointment today:
bankers hill
239 laurel st #102, san diego, ca 92101
phone: (619) 944-6472
encinitas
317 n el camino real #101, encinitas, ca 92024
phone: (760) 704-8422
la jolla
7863 girard ave #305, la jolla, ca 92037
phone: (858) 412-4029
We look forward to helping you achieve your bronzed best!