Airbrush Tanning 101

Questions

What is airbrush tanning? - Tanning occurs when the skin produces pigment to protect itself from UV rays. In airbrush tanning, the tanning solution is applied by a technician using a compressor and airbrush. Airbrush tanning solutions contain an active ingredient, DHA, that reacts with the outer layer of skin, producing a bronzing effect. It must be emphasized that the pigments resulting from an airbrush tan DO NOT provide UV protection. The maximum generation of colour is reached within about 12 hours, so the colour will continue to darken after the initial application. Airbrush tanning solutions also typically have a normal bronzer that provides an immediate tan effect and helps the operator to distinguish areas of the skin that are applied and unapplied. Most of this added bronzer will come off in the first shower/bath after application.

How long will an airbrush tan last? - Once per week or within a 4-10 day period from the prior application.

What should I charge for airbrush tanning service? = Like all services, your local market conditions may influence your fee schedule. Consider offering your customers a starter package of 2 back to back applications to establish a good base. This package could be priced in the £25-£45 range. Single applications could be priced between £15-£25. A reasonable charge for a facial application would be £4-£6.

What results should my customers expect? - With a tinted solution, the bronzer will produce an immediate coloration. The DHA tan should develop within 12 hours. After the bronzer is washed off the underlying DHA tan should result in skin coloration that is 1 to 2 shades darker. Multiple applications may produce deeper colour.

How long does it take to apply? - With practice, a single application will take approximately 12-15 minutes. Allow 10 minutes drying time, for a total airbrush session of about 25 minutes.

What should I do to prepare for an airbrush tanning session? - On the night prior to, or on the morning of your airbrush tanning session, use an exfoliant. Use a non-oil based exfoliant. Lotions and make-up may act as a barrier to prevent the tanning solution from reaching and interacting with the skin. In general, the skin should be clean and free from applied products.

What should I wear to an airbrush tanning session? - Wear loose fitting clothing to your tanning appointment. Allow 10 minutes drying time after your session before dressing.

How soon can I shower after an airbrush tan? - Allow 10-12 hours after your tanning session before showering. Ideally, the DHA application needs about 12 hours to reach its peak.

How do I maintain my airbrush tan? - Apply moisturizer morning and evening after your first post-tan shower. Moisturize daily thereafter. Hydrated skin is essential in maintaining a longer lasting tan.

What additional equipment should I have? = A blow dryer and hand towels are handy.

Is a special room required? A spray area of about 4' x 8' is recommended. If the area is enclosed, ensure that you have a ventilation fan that will ventilate the room 3 times per minute. A hard floor is recommended, but a 4' x 8' outdoor carpet may also be used.

How many applications does 1 gallon of solution yield? - The typical application range is 35ml - 60ml of solution per client. Most vendors quote 35ml per client, but clients with darker or oilier complexions will likely need more. At 35ml per client there are 28 applications per Litre, at 60ml, there are about 16.

What is the cost per application? - The cost of application depends on the usage, addressed in the prior question, and the cost of solution. In the typical case, this is likely in the £1.00 to £1.75 range per client. The cost of a dissatisfied client is very high, however. Even an expensive solution is quite cost effective when the client is happy. So, don't just pick the cheapest solution. The Tanning Store hopes to be a cost effective source for your solution needs.

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