If you’re thinking about adding tanning to your repertoire of add-on beauty services, Cassandra Stratton, massage director for Palatine, Ill.-based Mario Tricoci Salons and Day Spas, can help you sort through the differences between spray tans and hand-applied tanning services. Mario Tricoci offers hand-applied tanning as an hour-long spa treatment that includes full-body exfoliation, cream application, and massaging in the bronzer. A 30-minute express treatment includes gentle exfoliation and mitt application of tanning mousse.
Below, Stratton sets out her take on the pros and cons of each technique.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Hand-Applied |
> Lasts longer > Product is massaged into the skin to stain more layers > Product is usually in a cream base, which will also have hydrating benefits > Can get to areas of the body that are difficult with a sprayer > No particles in the air to breathe in > No machines with noisy vacuums or the need to store equipment > Can be marketed as a deluxe, full-body spa treatment |
> Should be maintained with regular lotion application to make it last longer > Priced higher than spray tanning > Takes longer to apply > For best results it should be a stand-alone service |
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Spray-on Tan |
> Quick tan application > Dries immediately because particles are smaller > Price is affordable > Can be done in a booth without a technician |
> Only stains the surface layer of the skin > Can miss tanning areas of the body that are hard to reach (inner thigh, under breast, between fingers, etc.) > Safety concerns regarding breathing in the spray > Can be noisy, depending on the equipment > Hand sprayer requires regular cleaning to prevent clogging > Equipment can be costly |
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