We've heard it a thousand times -- sun exposure causes skin cancer and
wrinkles -- but who wants to look pasty year-round? And even as the
weather gets cooler, Californians love to keep a sunny glow.
FOR THE RECORD: Tanning products: An article about tanning
sprays in Sunday's Image section misspelled tanning technician Lisa
Karadjian's last name as Karadijian. —
Tanning beds are not an option. In July, the World Health Organization
added UV-emitting tanning devices to its list of the most dangerous
cancer-causing forms of radiation, underscoring an association between
the devices and deadly melanoma of the skin and eyes.
What's a health-conscious tan-seeker to do?
Try getting a guilt-free, sun-kissed glow through today's array of
sophisticated sunless tanning formulations. Long gone are the days of
orange complexions and messy, streaky tans.
Half a dozen application options are available: DIY bronzing creams and
sprays, at-home airbrush guns, spa applications, spray booths and,
increasingly, mobile tanning technicians. Mobile tanners combine the
convenience of using at-home products with the expertise of a salon
application at a price of roughly $55 to $75 a session. However, in
today's economy every penny counts, so some clients throw spray-tan
parties to get their glow at a discount. Mobile technicians offer
attendees a group rate (usually $40 to $60 per person) while the
hostess often receives a complimentary tan.
"The most obvious advantage is the discount, but it's not always
the driving force," says Miranda Lynne, owner of MetropoliTAN Studio in
downtown Los Angeles. Spray-tan parties offer an excuse to socialize or
serve as a prelude to evening events. Attendees often indulge in
cocktails and hors d'oeuvres while lounging in robes awaiting their
turns.
"It's a quick and easy way to unwind and have fun with your
friends," says Agoura Hills-based aesthetician Ashley Miller, who has
attended several tanning parties put on by Girl Star Glow licensed
aesthetician and tanning technician Lisa Karadijian. "I never go out in
the sun for very long and I always wear sunscreen," Miller says. "I
still like to have a nice tan, but I refuse to get it naturally."
For those with deeper pockets, celebrity tanner Jimmy Coco, who
sprays the likes of Victoria Beckham and Eva Longoria Parker, offers a
ritzy $2,400 tanning bash dubbed "Bronzing With Bubbly" for up to 10
people. But if you can't afford the price, you can attend one of his
"Rock the Tan" events, where, for $99, attendees can get a Hollywood
glow while serving a larger cause since 5% of the proceeds go to the
Skin Cancer Foundation. The event even has its own theme song sung by
Coco, available on iTunes with sales benefiting the cause. (For more
information, visit
www.rockthetan.com.)
During the summer, Renata Shustin of Mocha Mist averages two parties a
week. She sets up a pop-up tent to protect the host's walls and
furnishings. After reviewing each client's needs, she offers a
disposable bra, underwear, nose filters and a hair net. (Many women
prefer a naked application to avoid tan lines.)
Each party attendee is taken into the tent individually for a custom
application, which can take up to 20 minutes. As the client moves
through a series of poses, a technician sprays the formula across the
body to ensure even coverage, starting at the feet and working upward.
Several tanning solutions are available, including those by Infinity
Sun, Extended Vacation and Liquid Sun, many incorporating botanicals
and antioxidants, along with the active tanning ingredient DHA, to
moisturize and protect skin. Others contain bronzing agents for an
instant shimmer that washes off after you shower.
These formulas work because DHA (dihydroxyacetone) reacts with
dead skin cells in the outer layer of the dermis in a process called
"reducing sugars" which causes skin color to darken. The FDA-approved
ingredient is safe on all skin types, says Dr. Leslie Baumann director
of the Cosmetic Medicine and Research Institute at the University of
Miami.
However, she adds, DHA products should not be applied in the sun
because they make skin more susceptible to sun damage during the
chemical reaction, which can take up to 24 hours. It's best to apply
products the evening before you want to show off your glow.
Tanning professionals customize formulations for an even-looking tan
and can contour the appearance of muscles or strategically shade areas
for a slender illusion. Some post-tanning sprays, such as Infinity
Sun's Anti-Aging Elixir, which contains galacto arabinan, vitamins A
and E, can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and tighten skin.
Before tanning (ideally, 24 hours in advance), experts advise clients
to shower, shave, exfoliate and refrain from applying any creams or
oil-based products that will prevent the tanning agent from working
effectively. Also, wear loose-fitting dark clothing in case some of the
color rubs off. Clients shouldn't shower for up to eight hours after
the application and should avoid exercise or sweating for up to four
hours to prevent potential streaks.
Tans usually will last for about 10 days, but they can last a little
more than two weeks with proper aftercare. Tan extenders containing
DHA, such as Revive Plus Daily ($29;
www.shopbiddiscombe.com),
deposit small amounts of tanner to maintain and enhance the richness of
the color, while moisturizers (Bath and Body Works Hold it Right There,
$15;
www.bathandbodyworks.com) can also make the tan last longer. Coco also suggests beta carotene and vitamin E supplements for a longer-lasting glow.
alexi@alexidrosu.com