Spray tanning: a hot skincare trend

The IECSC and IBC (that's International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference, and International Beauty Show if you want the full mouthful) were in town in NYC this week. I love strolling the aisles and aisles of exhibitors to see what's new, what's unique, and what might actually be worth it.

But there was one thing at the show that was visible at just about every turn: Spray Tans!

At top left, is spray-on tanning in action from Fantasy Tan.

Below, the results over at Glamorous Glo. Spray-on Tanning's a guy's thing, too.

Still more tanning at (below) St. Tropez Tan...

And it wasn't just the models who were getting in on the action--and the instant summery glow look.  Conference attendees were seen getting in on the action as well.

So how long does that glow last? Each of the companies I spoke with claimed their tans last for 5-10 days, on average (Fantasy Tan states 7-10 days). And do the tans look realistic? From my perspective those at Fantasy Tan and St. Tropez Tan did--tan lines and all. 

The Glamorous Glo guy definitely looked tan--and his white pants definitely looked stain-free--but I have to say his glow had a bit of an orange-y glimmer to it. Want to see some before & after shots of a spray-on tanning session? Celebrity Spray Tanning Guru, Veronique Munro provided before and after spray-on tan photos on RealSelf.com.

All-in-all, spray-on tans have come a long way and might be your best--and safest--investment this summer if you're looking for that sun-kissed look without harmful UVA/UVB rays. And with spray-on sessions that take no more than a half-hour perhaps once a week, it also might be your quickest way to a glow.

My only advice is to have a pro do it for the most even and natural-looking application--and make sure you ask about how to maintain your skin and tan in between spray treatments.