Perfecting the Tanning Experience

Salon owners know building a relationship with their client is a sure way to cement repeat business. Here are a few tips on how to impress your clients with not only a perfect spray tan, but an A+ experience too, writes Jessica Stoeska (Adore Tanning). 

73213718Prepare your clients

When you book your client be sure to educate them on how to prepare for their spray tan. Let your client know they should take time to exfoliate and not moisturise before their appointment. Be sure to mention not to shave in the 24 hours leading up to it allowing their pores enough time to close. Spraying on open/exposed pores can leave a speckled pattern on the skin.

Making your client comfortable

Little things make a big impact. Welcome your client when they arrive; a friendly smile goes a long way. Keep your salon environment clean and tidy and ensure everything is ready when they arrive. As an added bonus, keep the salon temperature comfortable so the client doesn’t get chilly when being prepped and sprayed.

Skin preparation

Barrier cream will stop over-development of the tan on drier skin areas. Before you begin a spray tan, it is a great idea to apply barrier cream to the areas more likely to overdevelop: elbows, knees, ankles and palms are the drier parts of the body that tend to over-absorb spray tan solution. By applying barrier cream you can ensure your client gets a perfectly even tan.

Communicate during the spray tan

Let your client know what to expect before you squeeze the trigger. Many first-time clients will not know what to expect. Give them the heads up about the cool mist and inform them of the process before you start. It can be easier to show them how it’s done by demonstrating the pose and getting them to mimic. By their third session they should be familiar with the process. To help the client keep still, engage them in conversation and make sure they are standing comfortably.

Watch the face

It is always helpful to warn the client before you begin to spray the face so they are not startled. Spraying a client’s face should be done towards the end of the tanning session, as they will be more comfortable having had most of their body already sprayed. It is also important to make sure your client’s hair is tucked under the hair cap with the edge of the hairline exposed to avoid a line across the forehead.

Drying and finishing the tanning experience

Ask your client to wear loose clothing so solution does not rub off when they get dressed. Allow 10 minutes for your clients’ tan to dry before they leave the salon. In colder months, it is ideal to use the heat function on the tanning system to help dry the client and keep them warm at the same time. Remember to give your client instructions on how to maintain their new sun-kissed glow. Moisturising daily with a tan extender will increase the longevity of their tan.

For more information visit www.adoretanning.com

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