Types of At-Home Spray Tan Machines
1. HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) Spray Tan Systems
HVLPs are by far the most popular spray tan machines commonly used in salons, mobile and at-home spray tanning. These machines are easy to use and are known for their efficiency, making them capable of providing even and precise applications. If you think achieving a sunless tan in less than 5 minutes is impossible, this type of machine will make you think again. They are built with a high-performance motor with a wattage of 400 W and above.
2. LVLP (Low Volume Low Pressure) Spray Tan Systems
Similar to HVLP systems, LVLP spray tan machines are turbine-driven and require a spray gun to spray solutions. Having said that, these machines operate at a fairly low pressure, meaning you need to be extremely precise while using it. On top of that, when using these machines, your skill level will affect the quality of your spray tan. Compared to HVLP machines, LVLPs require longer time per application, are slightly noisier and pricier.
3. Airbrush Spray Gun Machines
Commonly seen in professional spray tanning salons, these machines operate at higher pressure and deliver more solutions in less time. However, it requires much longer time per application—at least 30 minutes—compared to HVLP and LVLP machines. Plus, the spray guns tend to overspray, causing more solution wastage.
4. Automatic Spray Tanning Booths
This type of spray tan system is an enclosed booth, whereby a person is supposed to enter and stand. It works well for full-body tanning since the booth comes with nozzles on all sides that spray the solutions in the form of mist. Though a session might last only a minute or 2, it’s difficult to get an even tanning.
What are the Benefits of a Spray Tan Machine
- Beginner-friendly and easy to maneuver
- Efficient
- Delivers precise and even coverage
- Provides a longer-lasting sunless tan
- Causes little to no overspray
- Allows you to customize your unique shade
- Enables you to spray tan at the comfort of your own home
- Helps achieve the perfect tan without using a tanning bed or exposing your skon to harmful UV rays.
Pro And Cons Of Spray Tan Machines In Common
Pros:
Convenience
Having a home spray tan machine allows you to get a tan in the comfort of your own home whenever you want, without the need to visit a salon or tanning booth.
Cost-Effective
While the initial investment may be higher, in the long run, a home spray tan machine can save you money compared to regular salon visits.
Customization
With a home spray tan machine, you can control the intensity and evenness of the tan, allowing you to achieve your desired shade.
Privacy
Some people may prefer the privacy of tanning at home rather than in a public salon setting.
Cons:
Skill required
Using a spray tan machine properly requires some skill and practice. Achieving a flawless tan without streaks or uneven patches can be challenging for beginners.
Messy
Spray tanning at home can be messy, as you’ll need to protect your surroundings from overspray.
Maintenance
Home spray tan machines require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they function properly and deliver consistent results.
Limited coverage
It may be more challenging to reach certain areas of your body evenly with a home spray tan machine compared to a professional spray tan application at a salon.
Potential for mistakes
If not used correctly, there is a risk of ending up with an unnatural or uneven tan, which may be difficult to fix.
Why Would You Use A Spray Tan Machine?
People use a spray tan machine for various reasons, mainly to achieve a tanned appearance on their skin without the need for prolonged sun exposure. Here are some common reasons why someone might choose to use a spray tan machine.
Sunless Tanning
A spray tan machine provides a sunless tanning solution, allowing individuals to darken their skin tone without being exposed to harmful UV rays from the sun or tanning beds.
Aesthetic Appeal
Many people prefer the appearance of tanned skin, as it can give the illusion of a healthy glow and make the skin look more even and radiant.
Special Occasions
Spray tans are often used for special events like weddings, proms, parties, or vacations, where individuals want to achieve a bronzed look quickly.
Body Confidence
Some individuals may feel more confident and comfortable in their appearance with a tan, which can boost self-esteem.
Seasonal Transition
In colder climates or during winter months when sun exposure is limited, spray tans can help maintain a tanned look even when natural tanning isn’t feasible.
Skin Conditions
For people with certain skin conditions, like vitiligo or uneven pigmentation, a spray tan can help create a more uniform skin tone.
Time-Saving
Using a spray tan machine can be faster than traditional tanning methods, as it covers a larger surface area of the body in a shorter time.
Control Over Tan Intensity
With a spray tan machine, users can control the depth of their tan, ensuring they achieve their desired level of color.
Avoiding Tan Lines
Spray tans allow for more even coverage and can help individuals avoid tan lines that may result from sunbathing outdoors.
Things to Consider when Buying a Spray Tan Machine
Choosing the perfect spray tan machine isn’t easy. Here are some features you need to consider when buying one:
A. Material
Whether you’re looking for a spray tan machine for personal or business use, it’s important to factor in the material used. Opt for a unit built with high-quality, durable, and sturdy materials so it’ll last you for years to come.
B. Accessories
Some spray tan machines come as standalone units, others come complete with various accessories to achieve a flawless tanned look. This includes tanning solutions in various intensities, nose plugs to keep the solution out of your nose, disposable foot pads and sometimes even a tent to keep your workspace mess-free. The more accessories you get, the easier it is for you when using the machine.
C. Capacity
A tan machine requires at least two ounces of tanning solution to cover an average body from head to toe. Therefore, you should aim for a spray tan machine that can hold two ounces of solution at a minimum. And if you prefer a deeper tan or are slightly bigger than the average size, consider a machine with four ounces capacity.
D. Pressure System
As mentioned before, spray tan guns are categorized into HVLP and LVLP. The former are more commonly used for at-home settings because they are lightweight, quiet, and more efficient. The latter, however, tend to be louder and slower. At the end of the day, it still comes down to your personal preference.
E. Maintenance
Many consumers are against getting a spray tan done at home due to the mess the machine tends to cause. But fret not, there are many models that provide excellent tan results with minimal cleanup. When looking at the different models, make sure to check their overspray. Models with little to no overspray rating are ideal. On top of that, you should make sure that the cups aren’t prone to leakage. Finally, having a tent helps contain the tanning solution mist.
F. Noise
Spray tan guns are equipped with air compressors and thus, are pretty loud. If you have a mobile tanning business, this can be a stumbling block because you’ll be spraying on your clients for hours and the high decibel output can have a detrimental effect on your hearing over time. So factor in the decibel rating whenever you’re getting a spray tan machine.
Many buyers assume that machines with smaller compressors are quieter, albeit popular beliefs, it’s the complete opposite. Spray tan machines with larger air compressors are often quieter because they don’t have to work as hard.
G. Portability
When it comes to portability, bear in mind that some machines are designed to be moved around easily while others are meant to be used in a fixed location. Therefore, if you’re looking for the perfect piece of equipment for personal use, opt for a lightweight unit that’s easy to use. However, say it’s for your mobile spray tanning business, go for a gun that’s easy to store and carry around. Finally, if you’re installing one in your salon, a large system is the most ideal.
Tips and Tricks for Using Your At-Home Spray Tan Machine The Right Way
- Prep your skin: Make sure that you wax or shave at least one day before spray tanning so that your pores don’t absorb the solution and create that dotted appearance.
- Exfoliate: Exfoliate your skin using an oil-free formula a day before the spray tan. This will help create that silky smooth surface for the tan to adhere to and create an even tan sans splotches.
- Avoid wearing deodorant: When you’re applying spray tan, it’s best that you stay away from deodorant. Certain chemicals in the deodorant can react negatively to the spray tan and result in a greenish shade on your underarms.
- Protect your palm and hair: If you don’t want to get any tanning solutions for your palms, apply a barrier cream or baking soda. Ensure to completely cover your hair with a shower cap and apply a little moisturizer on your eyebrows.
- After application: Once the tan has completely dried, wear dark loose clothing to avoid the product from rubbing off on any surface. Plus, you need to wait for approximately 6 to 8 hours for the color to fully develop, which means you can’t shower until then.
- Ventilation: When using an at-home spray tan machine, always do it in a ventilated area. The tan solutions contain DHA, which is said to be safe for the skin, but you may have to be extra cautious when it comes to inhaling the spray as it’s said to cause side effects such as coughing and dizziness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a spray tan last?
A single spray tan application can last up to 10 days, but it may vary depending on the brand. Plus, the darker the tan, the longer it’ll last.
2. How safe are spray tans?
Spray tans are safe as long as you use it as directed, All tanning solutions are formulated with DHA, which is FDA-approved and suitable for external applications. DHA or dihydroxyacetone is a chemical that reacts with dead cells on the skin, causing the skin to darken, aka a tan.
3. How long should I wait to shower after a spray tan?
After spray tanning, you should wait for a minimum of 8 hours before taking a shower. Read this article to learn more about showering after tanning.
4. How can I extend the lifespan of my spray tan?
You could use a self-tanning product as a topper to prevent your tan from fading and extend its lifespan by a few days.
5. Will the spray tan get darker over time?
Though this depends on the time of the day you got your spray tan done, there is a high possibility the tan might get dark as time goes on.
6. Does spray tan or airbrush look natural?
Airbrush tanning or at-home spray tanning can deliver a seamless, natural finish, whereas spray tanning done in a booth might result in a tan with orange undertones.
7. What should I do if the spray tan looks too dark?
In that case, apply baby oil or coconut oil. Let it sit for 10 minutes and head for a shower and exfoliate.
The MineTan Spray Tan Machine is an advanced machine that allows you to achieve a flawless and natural-looking tan with ease. Using state-of-the-art-technology, produces an ultra-fine mist that evenly covers your skin, ensuring a streak-free finish. Whether you’re a seasoned tanning artist or beginner, this machine is user-friendly and guarantees impressive results. With its precision controls, you can adjust the flow of the tanning solution to achieve your desired level of tan from a subtle glow to a deep bronzed look.
