
Does your skin need something new? If you’re looking for a way to change up your beauty routine, why not try a tan? This treatment is well-known for its ability to give skin a bronzed glow and a sun-kissed look. Plus, it can help to even out skin tone and give you a boost of confidence. But before you book your appointment, there are a few things you should know about tanning. Here’s everything you need to know about getting a tan.
What is a tan?
A tan is basically when your skin changes color after being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. This can happen either through natural sunlight or from using a tanning bed, booth, or lamp. When your skin is exposed to UV light, it causes your body to produce more melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives your skin its color. The more melanin you have, the darker your skin will be. So, a tan is basically when your skin produces more melanin in order to protect itself from the sun.
Moreover, more and more people are booking appointments for professional tanning services. This is because there are now more options than ever before when it comes to getting a tan. You can get a spray tan, airbrush tan, or even a UV-free sunless tan. Plus, there are tons of different products on the market that can help you achieve the perfect bronze glow.
What are some side effects of tans?
While a tan may give you the skin you desire, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects. First and foremost, a tan is a sign that your skin has been damaged by the sun. This is because UV rays can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. So, it’s important to be careful when you’re exposed to the sun and to make sure you’re using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
In addition, some people may experience an allergic reaction to the UV rays or to the products used in a professional tanning service. This can cause redness, swelling, itching, and even blistering. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
What are the different types of tans?
Done with the overview? Here’s where things get fun: the different types of tans! As we mentioned before, there are a few different ways to get a tan. You can get a spray tan, airbrush tan, UV-free sunless tan, or sun tan.
Spray tans: A spray tan is when a fine mist is sprayed onto your skin in order to evenly distribute the bronzing solution. This solution typically contains DHA, which is a colorless sugar that interacts with the dead cells on the surface of your skin to create a bronze hue.
Airbrush tans: An airbrush tan is similar to a spray tan, but the bronzing solution is applied with an airbrush gun. This method is often considered to be more precise than a spray tan and can give you a more even coverage.
UV-free sunless tans: This type of tan is achieved without the use of UV rays. The most common way to do this is through the use of a self-tanning product. These products typically contain DHA, which will stain your skin and give it a bronze color.
Sun tans: The classic and all-natural way to get a tan is by spending time in the sun. However, as we mentioned before, this method can be dangerous if you don’t take the proper precautions. Make sure you wear sunscreen and limit your time in the sun in order to avoid any damage to your skin.
How long does a tan last?
The length of time your tan will last depends on the type of tan you get. Also, considering your skin type, how often you exfoliate, and how well you take care of your skin will affect how long your tan lasts. An average tan from a bottle will last about 5 to 7 days, while a tan from the sun can last up to 2 weeks.
How long do spray tans last?
The possibility of your spray tan lasting long depends on how well you take care of it. A typical spray tan can last up to 7 to 10 days as long as you follow the proper after-care instructions. These include avoiding water and exfoliating your skin.
How long do airbrush tans last?
Since this type of tan is mostly similar to spray tans, it can last around the same amount of time. With proper care, an airbrush tan can last up to a week or more.

How long do UV-free sunless tans last?
This will again depend on your skin type and how often you exfoliate, but on average, a UV-free sunless tan can last up to 5 to 7 days. Also, be mindful of how often you wash your hands, as this can fade the color of your tan.
How long do suntans last?
As mentioned before, sun tans can last up to 2 weeks. However, it’s important to note that this does not mean you should be in the sun for long periods of time without taking a break. Make sure you take breaks in the shade and reapply sunscreen throughout the day in order to avoid any damage to your skin. For instance, you might develop sunburn or heat exhaustion if you stay in the sun for too long
Is tanning eco-friendly?
The short answer is: no, tanning is not eco-friendly. The process of tanning uses a lot of energy and water, and it emits harmful chemicals into the air. In addition, the products used in professional tanning services often contain harmful ingredients that can pollute the air and water. However, if you’re concerned about the environmental impact of tanning, why not opt for a natural sun tan? This way, you can avoid the use of harmful chemicals and save water and energy.
How can you make tanning eco-friendly?
If you’re determined to get a tan but want to be more eco-conscious, well, there are a few things you can do.
Choose a natural suntan over a professional one: As we mentioned before, professional tans use a lot of water and energy, and they emit harmful chemicals into the air. If you opt for a natural sun tan instead, you can avoid all of that.
Do it yourself: If you want to get a professional-looking tan but don’t want to support the industry, why not do it yourself? There are plenty of at-home kits and tutorials that can help you get the perfect tan.
Go for an eco-friendly salon: If you must get a professional tan, try to find an eco-friendly salon that uses sustainable practices. This way, you can get a great tan without harming the environment.

As you can see, there are a few things to consider before getting a tan. Make sure you choose the right type of tan for your skin type and desired results. And if you’re worried about the environmental impact of tanning, remember that there are ways to make it more eco-friendly. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect tanning solution for you. Always remember, though, to prioritize the health of our planet as much as we prioritize our beauty.