FOR A
FLAWLESS TAN , START PREPPING !
After putting months of work into your physique to step on stage , you need your tan to be perfect . The deep , rich tan highlights muscle definition under the bright stage lights , enhancing what you ’ ve built . However , a few wrong moves with your skin and your tan could leave you looking splotchy , tinted , or not dark enough . Taking some extra time to prep your skin leading up to your show can help your tanning artist get the best result .
THE
SCIENCE ofTANNING
The skin is your body ’ s largest organ and protects you from infection and environmental factors . The outer layer , the epidermis , has cells which produce melanin , the brown pigment we see when we ’ ve been exposed to UV radiation . This kind of tanning , either done outdoors or in a tanning bed , damages the skin and is known to be a cause of skin cancer .
On the other hand , spray tanning is a safe option , and quickly provides the dark tan needed by physique competitors . Spray tans work by applying a mist of color onto your skin . The mist contains Dihydroxyacetone ( DHA ) which interacts with your skin to change its color . This color can vary based on the chemistry of your skin as well as how it has been prepped .
Your skin has a natural PH level , which refers to how acidic or alkaline it is . PH is measured on a scale from 1 ( most acidic ) to 14 ( most alkaline ), with 7 being neutral . When fatty acids mix with the lactic and amino acids in your sweat , your skin ’ s PH balance is created . A slightly acidic reading is ideal . This balance can be thrown off by everything that contacts the skin , from skin care products to air pollution .
SKIN PREP
Taking care of your skin all year long is important , but when a spray tan is on the horizon , it becomes even more vital . Enlisting the following skin care routines can help give you the beautiful stage tan you need .
Exfoliate – Regularly exfoliating your skin removes the dead skin cells sitting on the top layer of the epidermis . By removing these cells , you ’ re providing a smooth surface of fresh cells for the spray to bind to . In addition to regularly exfoliating throughout prep , the night before your tan is booked , take the time to thoroughly exfoliate with a special product and a mitt .
Hair Removal – Shaving or waxing are your best bets for hair removal . If waxing , have it done at least a week prior to your tan to allow any swelling or irritation to dissipate . Shaving should be done the night before , so you can moisturize the skin afterwards ( but wash this off the day of your tan !). Cream hair removers aren ’ t advised due to the harsh chemicals they contain , which commonly lead to rashes or can change your skin ’ s natural PH level .
Moisturize – Hydrated skin is happy skin , so keep it moisturized – paying special attention to the elbows and knees which are often more dry . However , the week prior to getting your spray tan , stop using oils or moisturizers as it can create a barrier to the tan hindering absorption . Also , stop using deodorant for the week leading up to your competition as it can alter your skin ’ s PH level , potentially resulting in green underarms on stage !
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
If you ’ re looking to pamper your skin and follow the above tips , the experts at Absolute Touch highly recommend the Biophora skin care line . The Enzyme Exfoliator and Bioactive Cleanser will leave your skin soft , even , and balanced . Also highly recommended is the Dermasuri MITT to make exfoliating easy . With regular use of these products you ’ ll be on your way to perfectly prepped skin for your stage presentation !