Eye Candy by Brandi — Sun-Kissed Skin

We greatly appreciated Brandi Nash of Eye Candy by Brandi in Cheyenne for teaching us (me too!) about the art of making yourself look your very best. Read on for more of Brandi’s wisdom…

Bibbity Bobbity YOU!

Sun-kissed Skin

Sunless tanning, spray tanning, fake ‘n bake….whatever you like to call it, it all means the same thing, a safer alternative to tanning in the sun or tanning bed.  Now, I am no one to judge and since we live in a free country I do believe it is everyone’s own personal decision to tan via UV rays or not.  In fact, I used to manage and work in tanning salons before I became an Esthetician.  Due to my background, however, I think I have some great insight for you to consider when it comes to preparing for your wedding and honeymoon vacation if you are trying to achieve a beautiful bronzed tan.

“Indoor tanning” is one way to get darker.  There are some things you should think about though before you decide to purchase a tanning package and invest your time in a tanning bed and/or tanning booth.  Tanning indoors is in fact, not safer than tanning in the sun.  According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, indoor tanning has been linked with skin cancers including melanoma (the deadliest type of skin cancer), squamous cell carcinoma, and cancers of the eye (ocular melanoma).  Additionally, you can still get a burn from tanning in a tanning bed.  What’s that you say? “But I NEED my Vitamin D!!” Oh, if I had a nickel for every time I heard someone say that!  There is a safer way to give your body Vitamin D such as consuming fatty fish, mushrooms, fortified dairy, and of course Vitamin D supplements.  If you get nothing else from reading this I want you to remember the following: Nothing ages your skin more than sun damage.  Sun damage (this also includes exposure in tanning beds) is irreversible; it causes wrinkles and age spots.  While it may not be apparent now, sun damage appears on the skin later in life.  Prevention is key.  Using a good quality sunscreen while in the sun as well as wearing protective clothing, will help prevent sun damage.  No one wants wrinkles and it is no wonder that the anti-aging products global industry is valued at an estimated $261.9 billion!

So, you still want to be tan….

Well, lucky for you, sunless tanning options have come a long way since they first hit the scene in the 1960s.  There are now countless numbers of self-tanning lotions, creams, gels and foams that once applied, will darken your skin over a period of a few hours or in some cases are instant.  Should you decide to experiment with these products, do your research to see what would best suit your needs and then practice with it well before your wedding or special event.  I have found that if I mix equal parts regular body lotion with a self-tanning lotion and then apply it to my body, I get a smooth, streak free application.  Test out how the product will rub off on clothing (hopefully not) by wearing an old t-shirt.  You don’t want to discover how a product will wear the day of your nuptials while wearing your beautiful wedding gown.  If using a product on your face, consider how you may have to adjust your makeup and foundation colors.  Don’t forget to wear a pair of disposable gloves while working with these products!

Spray tanning is another great alternative.   Again, do your research and ask around to those you know if they can recommend a great place in your area.  Some places have spray tan booths.  This option does not involve a spray tan technician.  You move into different positions according to a diagram or instructional video and while you are inside the booth it sprays the product on a set timer.  Spray tanning, where a certified technician applies the product with a spray gun, is another option.  They control the color level and application.  Spray tans last between 7 and 10 days depending on how you prepare and maintain the spray tan with recommended products. Consult with your technician on how to prepare your skin and get the most out of your spray tan.  I recommend that people have a spray tan now and see how they like it before booking an appointment two days before their wedding or vacation.  Typically, spray tans can cost between $25-$35.  Sometimes a bronzer or gold shimmer can be added.  Self tanning products do not protect your skin from UVA/ UVB rays and should not be used as a substitute for broad spectrum sunscreen.  Self-tanning products contain DHA (Dihydroxyacetone), the main coloring agent.  DHA works with the amino acids in the skin to produce a natural looking tan with no orange discoloration.  DHA is often derived from plant sources such as sugar beets and sugar cane and by the fermentation of glycerin.  DHA is the only such agent approved for use by the US Food and Drug Administration and has been used in cosmetics for years.  Products with DHA are safe when applied topically.  There have not been any reported side effects from the use of DHA.  If you have ever had an allergic reaction to self tanners, however, do not get a spray tan.  It is also important to discuss any existing medical/health conditions you have with your spray tan technician prior to making an appointment.

On a personal note, I am not just a spray tan technician, but I’m also a client!

Now that you have this information, achieving that sun-kissed glow you desire in a safe way is possible.

About the author: Brandi Lea Nash is a licensed esthetician, professional makeup artist and a certified South Seas Skincare Spray Tan Technician.  She owns her own business, Eye Candy by Brandi.  Visit her facebook page www.facebook.com/BrandiLeaNash and website www.brandileanash.skincaretherapy.net