The Perfect Sunless Tan: Tips, Products, and Local Spray Tans

Summer is pretty much here to stay in Charleston. If you’re looking for alternatives to sunbathing, we’ve got you covered.

I love having tanned skin. Being that I’m pale, however, spending hours in the sun isn’t always conducive when you have a job, kiddos, and life to handle. Not only is there a time constraint, but there is also the risk of skin cancer as well. The quickest and easiest way to get a very natural, bronzed, and summer-kissed look is to either do it yourself or get a spray tan.

Both self-tanning products and spray tanning solutions have come a very long way over the last few decades. The self-tanners were cringe-worthy with an awful scent (think wet dog) and the streaky orange color made you look like something akin to a Willy Wonka movie.

Using Self-Tanning Products at Home

There are a ton of products on the market these days. It’s easy to see why as the sunless tanning industry is valued at over one billion dollars annually — and growing. Not all products deserve the spotlight, though. For this article, and to help you narrow your search, I researched and tested two self-tanning products I’m very excited about. (I have no affiliations with either company and purchased both products on my own.)

Before I jump into the products I tested out, here are a few items you’ll need to get started and tips to consider . . .

Items You’ll Need

• Application mitt – Absolutely necessary
• Body brush – optional, but great for pre-tan exfoliation
• Kabuki brush – optional, but great for blending on hands/face/feet

Application Tips

1. Shower and shave/exfoliate prior to applying self-tanner.
2. Do not apply any lotions/oils/makeup prior to application.
3. Apply solution in a slow circular motion with the application mitt and allow to dry completely prior to dressing.
4. Do not shower, swim, or sweat for at least 2-8 hours after application. (Always check instructions on product labels, as directions and developing times differ from product to product.)

Products I Tried at Home

1. Coco and Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam – Medium
There’s nothing I don’t like about this product. The price point won’t break the bank at $35.

Pros:

• Clean, safe ingredients
• Easy application
• Dreamy, tropical scent
• Three shades to choose from to fit all skin tones
• Multiple purchase options including in-store at Ulta
• It fades quite naturally as well, which isn’t always true of self-tanners

Cons:

• Nothing, I love it!

2. Loving Tan Deluxe Gradual Tan – Medium
I opted for the gradual tan as it comes in more of a lotion form, and I was curious to try it as most products come as a foam. I was not disappointed at all. The price point is great at $29.99.

Pros:

• Light, clean scent
• Clean, botanical ingredients
• Easy application
• Multiple purchase options including in-store at Ulta
• Three shade offerings
• Develops gradually and is buildable for deeper color
• Fades nicely

Cons:

• Nothing, I love it!

Overall, I have no complaints about either product! Even though they are different consistencies, I was very surprised at how close in color the two products were when I compared them side by side.

Getting a Professional Spray Tan

We have a lot of spray tanning options locally in Charleston, and it can be overwhelming to find a good fit. There is no regulatory board or licensing requirement to do spray tanning, nor does it require a dedicated space. Meaning: anyone can do spray tanning AND they can do it from their home or bring the spray tan to you.

My advice when researching who and where to see for your spray tan is to look for someone who is either a licensed cosmetologist or esthetician. They will have years of experience and training under their belt. I also recommend always looking at reviews, websites, and images.

Local Spray Tan Businesses in the Charleston Area

I’ve compiled a list of a few local businesses to help you narrow down your search a bit.

Summerville:

• Brat’s Tanning
• Charleston Glow Blush Pro – Nexton

Mt. Pleasant:

• City Tan
• We Got the Beettan Charleston

West Ashley:

• Enlighten Skincare
• Low Country Bronze

Downtown:

• Glow Bar CHS

There are several local companies that provide mobile tanning. This is a great solution if you are in an area where a salon isn’t close by, for bachelorette/wedding parties, or just need the convenience of tanning in your home.

Tips for Before and After Your Professional Spray Tan

1. Shower, shave, and exfoliate prior to your tan.
2. Do not apply any lotions, oils, or makeup prior to tanning.
3. Make sure to use barrier cream/lotion on your hands and feet.
4. Do not shower/swim/sweat for a minimum of eight hours after your tan.
5. Do not shave or exfoliate during your first shower after your tan.
6. You should expect your tan to last five-seven days.

Do you love sunless tanning as much as I do? Share your favorite products or places for spray tans in the comments below!