Bridal Spray Tanning – Yes or No?

Do I say yes to the Spray Tan?

Over the years I have had mixed feelings about Spray Tanning for Weddings/Formals. 
As a makeup artist I have been required on many occasions to perform miracles and fix spray tanning disasters. 
Some of my brides and formal girls looked like they just auditioned for a role as an Oompa Loompa or a Bollywood Musical as a ‘Tandoori’ Bride. 
But all jokes aside these disasters lead me to do some researching of my own to try and find some solutions as this “Spray Tan Craze” was not going to go away.

I have actually come around these days and do think that a very natural light looking tan can give a bride a beautiful glow on her wedding day, provided the tan is applied correctly without streaking and not noticeable on hands and feet.

Spray Tan Tips

If you are going to get a spay tan…..And many of my brides do.
My BIGGEST Tip is to also have a trial spray tan.
And when you have found a spray tanner that you trust, have your spray tan done 1 or 2 days before your makeup trial.
TRUST me on this.
Over the years I have seen beautiful pale skin at the trial and we have worked out the makeup colours and the the skin base tones.

Then on the day of the wedding I am confronted by California Dreamin and I have a bride who looks like she has spent the past 3 weeks on a Gold Coast beach.
Every colour choice and makeup finish we had decided on at the trial is no longer applicable.
Darker skin tones require different application techniques and I am often having to blend the neck and face into the torso

Choosing the Perfect Shade for Your Big Day

Getting the perfect tan for your wedding is crucial. You want to glow, not look like an oompa-loompa.

Consulting a Tan Guru

First things first, you’ve got to find a tan guru. This is not just someone with a spray tan machine. It’s someone who understands skin tones and can guide you.

When you talk to your tan guru, bring photos. Show them your wedding dress, makeup colours, and accessories. The shade must complement everything.

Ask for their professional opinion. They’ve seen many brides before and can tell you what works. Be sure to let them know if you want a natural glow or a deeper bronze.
Too dark and your entire makeup look will have to be adjusted. Too light and it might not even be noticeable.

Self Tanning Adventures

Many of the self tanning products are so much better, Gone is the noticeable self tan smell and the yellowy results.
If you are going to go down the self tanning route – Please do what I mentioned above.
Do some trials – see what gives you the best results.
Sometimes it is an instant tan that has a better tone rather than the slower developing colours.
Make sure you are not sensitive to the formulations if you have sensitive skin. We want to avoid rashes and sin irritations!
Wait a day or two and see how the tan develops. Check it in different lights: natural light, indoor light, and yes, the dreaded flash photography. Compare how it looks morning versus evening. Your tan might look different at 8 AM than it does at 8 PM.

Keep a record of what you like and dislike. Adjust the shade if needed. You want to be sure that on your big day, there’s no surprise streaks, weird colours, or shimmer overload.

The Application Saga: Avoiding Streaks and Mishaps

Getting that perfect spray tan can be tricky. The key is having the right tools and using the correct technique.

Tools of the Trade

Start with exfoliating gloves. Use them in the shower to get rid of dead skin cells. This helps your tan last longer and look even.

Next, grab a spray tan applicator mitt. This prevents those awful orange palms. Plus, it helps you spread the tan smoothly. You’ll also need a back applicator if you can’t reach your back.

A fine mist spray bottle is helpful for touching up hard-to-reach areas. Finally, wear loose, dark clothing after application to avoid staining and let the tan set properly.

Technique Triumphs

Apply moisturiser to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles before you start. This helps prevent the tan from sticking in those spots and looking uneven.

Hold the spray about 15 centimetres away from your skin. Move in slow, even strokes. Don’t stay too long in one spot to avoid build-up.

For tricky areas like fingers and toes, use the “claw” method. Spread your fingers and toes apart so the tan gets between them evenly. Double-check your work before it dries, fixing any streaks with a makeup sponge.

And remember, practice makes perfect! The more you spray tan, the better you’ll get at it.

Post-Tan Care and Maintenance: Keeping the Glow Going

Moisturising: Your Skin’s Best Mate

Dry skin is your tan’s worst enemy. After exfoliating, you need to get your moisturising game on.

Here’s what you need:

1. Oil-Free Moisturiser: Pick something light.
2. Timing: Apply at least 8 hours before your tan.
3. Focus Areas: Knees, elbows, and any other dry spots.

It’s best if your skin is nourished but not greasy. Avoid lotions with heavy oils, as they can make your tan slide around like a kid on a playground.

Now that you’re rocking that fabulous tan, keep it looking fresh! Here’s how:

Avoid Water Too Soon
Don’t hop into a pool or take a bath for at least 8 hours. Water and tans just don’t mix right away.

Moisturise Like a Pro
Keep your skin hydrated! Use a moisturiser without oils to avoid patchy spots.

Wear Loose Clothes
Wear loose, dark clothes after tanning. No one needs awkward tan lines from tight bras or jeans.

No Exfoliating Yet
Resist the urge to exfoliate for at least a few days. Scrubbing equals fading. Let that tan live its best life.

Stay Cool
Sweating can make your tan look uneven. Stick to cool environments and avoid hitting the gym hard.

Tan-Friendly Products
Use sulphate-free body washes and avoid products with alcohol. They can strip your tan faster than a goggled chicken can cross the road.

Hydrate
Drink plenty of water. Hydrated skin = longer-lasting tan.

Touch-Ups
For those little bits that fade quicker (like feet and hands), use a gradual tanning lotion to keep everything even.

Avoid Chlorine
Swimming in chlorinated water can fade your tan faster than you can say “sunkissed.” Try the beach instead if you need a splash.

Key Points

Keep following these tips, and your glow will stay strong all the way to your wedding day, making you the radiant, tanned bride of your dreams!

Frequently Asked Questions

Spray tanning can help you look radiant on your big day. Getting it right is key, so let’s tackle some common concerns with a bit of humour and practical advice.

How do I avoid looking like a bronzed statue at my own wedding?

Choose a shade close to your natural skin tone. Test the tan a few weeks before the wedding. This way, you’ll know how it looks and can adjust if needed.

Is it true that a spray tan can make a run for it on my dress faster than a groom with cold feet?

Spray tans can transfer to fabric, especially if you sweat. Wear loose clothing after tanning. Having your final tanning session a few days before the wedding will reduce the risk.

What’s the go with spray tanning – a beauty do or a bridal don’t?

Spray tanning can be great when done right. It gives a healthy glow. Do a trial run to find the perfect shade. And always follow the aftercare instructions.

Could getting a spray tan before the big day turn me into the next bridezilla?

Avoid last-minute tanning disasters by planning. Try the tan a few weeks prior for peace of mind. You’ll feel more relaxed knowing there won’t be any surprises.

Are there any top-notch alternatives to spray tanning for a bride who doesn’t want to risk looking like an Oompa Loompa?

You can use gradual self-tanning lotions. They build up colour slowly. Another option is tinted moisturisers with a bit of bronzer. They wash off easily if things go pear-shaped.

Is a pre-wedding spray tan the secret to that ‘just married’ glow or just a one-way ticket to Streak City?

A spray tan can give you a lovely glow if done properly. Go to a professional tech and follow the prep and aftercare instructions. This reduces the chances of streaks and patches.