National Spray Tan Day

A smiling woman, wearing a fashionable summer dress, standing in front of a beach backdrop, holding a spray tan bottle.. — National spray tan day illustration

Ah, National Spray Tan Day! A day dedicated to achieving that gorgeous, sun-kissed glow without the actual sun. Get your cans of faux bronze ready, because we're about to dive into the wonderful world of spray tans.

When is Spray Tan Day?

It's national spray tan day on the 6th March.

The History of National Spray Tan Day

Although you might think spray tans are a relatively recent trend, they actually have a fascinating history. The concept of artificially darkening the skin dates back to ancient times, with various civilizations using different methods to achieve a tanned look.

Fast forward to the 20th century, and traditional tanning methods like laying in the sun or using tanning beds started losing popularity due to concerns about skin damage and increased risk of skin cancer. People began searching for safer alternatives, and that's where spray tans entered the spotlight.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the first commercially available spray tan was developed in 1960 by a German scientist? Talk about getting a spray tan revolution started!

Celebrating National Spray Tan Day

National Spray Tan Day is a day for all those who love a healthy-looking glow without the harmful effects of excessive UV exposure. It's a chance to embrace the wonders of bronzed skin and boost our confidence.

So, how can you celebrate this delightful day? Well, it's quite simple! Book an appointment with a professional spray tanner or grab a can of spray tan and give it a go yourself. Just remember to exfoliate and moisturize beforehand for the best results. And hey, don't forget to take a few selfies to document your fabulous transformation!

Whether you decide to hit the spray tan booth or do it at home, National Spray Tan Day is all about embracing your beauty and feeling confident in your own skin, even if it's not your natural shade. So go ahead, channel your inner sun goddess (or god) and shine bright!

History behind the term 'Spray Tan'

1960s

The Birth of Sunless Tanning

In the 1960s, the concept of sunless tanning started to gain popularity as an alternative to traditional tanning methods. People sought a way to achieve a bronzed look without the harmful effects of UV rays. This led to the development of various self-tanning products that could be applied to the skin to darken its appearance.

1960s

The Birth of the Tanning Industry

During the 1960s, the modern tanning industry began to flourish. Sunbathing became increasingly popular, and people desired a tan but without the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. This led to the invention and introduction of self-tanning products, which were initially in lotion form. However, these early self-tanners often resulted in an unnatural orange color and uneven application.

1963

Rise of Sunless Tanning

In 1963, the concept of sunless tanning began gaining popularity. As people became more aware of the risks of excessive sun exposure, they started looking for alternatives to achieving a tan. A scientist named Eva Wittgenstein developed a product called 'Instant Sunshine' that used a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to darken the skin temporarily. This was the birth of the modern spray tan.

1959

Invention of the first self-tanning product

In 1959, a pharmacist and entrepreneur named Coppertone developed the first self-tanning product. This invention marked the beginning of the concept of achieving a tan without exposure to the sun. The initial formulation of this product was made with a chemical called DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of the skin to produce a tan-like color.

1977

The First Spray-On Tanning Product

In 1977, the first spray-on tanning product was introduced by the German company called Klapp. This innovative product, named 'Sun Spray,' allowed individuals to achieve a tanned look by applying a fine mist of tanning solution onto their skin. The spray-on method provided a more even and natural-looking tan compared to earlier self-tanning lotions and creams.

1970s

Introduction of the First Spray Tanning Technique

In the 1970s, the first spray tanning technique was introduced as an alternative to traditional self-tanning lotions. The early spray tanning method involved manually applying a tanning solution onto the skin using an airbrush, creating a more even and natural-looking tan. This technique gained popularity among beauty professionals and tanning enthusiasts, despite being time-consuming and requiring expertise.

1970s

Tanning Booths

In the 1970s, tanning booths started becoming popular. Instead of applying self-tanning products at home, people could now step into a booth where a mist of tanning solution was sprayed onto their skin. This method provided a more even tan and eliminated the need for manual application.

1977

Introduction of spray tanning technique

In 1977, the spray tanning technique was introduced as an alternative method for achieving a tan. This technique involved using a handheld device to spray a mist of self-tanning solution onto the skin. The fine mist evenly coated the skin, providing a more natural and streak-free tan compared to traditional self-tanning lotions or creams.

1990s

Airbrush Tanning

During the 1990s, airbrush tanning gained prominence. It involved using an airbrush gun to spray a fine mist of tanning solution onto the skin, giving a more natural and customizable tan. This technique was often performed by professionals in salons or spas.

2000

The Rise of the Spray Tanning Trend

Around the year 2000, spray tanning started to gain momentum as a popular method for achieving a sun-kissed glow. Celebrities and fashion icons began embracing this trend, leading to its widespread popularity. The convenience and effectiveness of spray tans made them a preferred choice for red carpet events and photo shoots.

1990s

Salon popularity and cultural acceptance

During the 1990s, spray tanning gained popularity among salon-goers. It became more widely accepted as a convenient and efficient way to achieve a tan without sun exposure. Many celebrities and public figures embraced spray tanning, which further contributed to its cultural acceptance and desirability.

2000s

Invention of Automated Spray Tanning Booths

In the early 2000s, the tanning industry experienced a significant advancement with the invention of automated spray tanning booths. These booths revolutionized the way spray tans were administered, making the process more efficient, convenient, and accessible to a wider audience. They utilized a combination of air, heat, and a regulated mist of tanning solution to provide an even and natural-looking tan in just a few minutes.

2007

Spray Tanning Goes Mainstream

In 2007, spray tanning became even more accessible to the general public as numerous salons and spas started offering professional spray tanning services. This allowed individuals to enjoy a flawless, streak-free tan while being attended to by trained technicians who could ensure an even application. This marked a significant milestone in the mainstream acceptance of spray tanning.

Present Day

Popularity and Variations

Today, spray tanning is a popular alternative to traditional tanning methods. It has gained immense popularity among individuals who desire a bronzed appearance without the risks associated with excessive sun exposure. Spray tanning solutions have evolved to offer a range of shades and formulas suitable for different skin tones and preferences. Whether applied by a professional or through automated booths, spray tans continue to be a go-to option for achieving a temporary sun-kissed glow.

Early 2000s

Expansion of the spray tanning industry

In the early 2000s, the spray tanning industry experienced significant growth. Various advancements were made in the technology and formulation of self-tanning solutions, leading to improved results and a wider range of options for consumers. Spray tanning booths and professional-grade equipment became more accessible, expanding the availability and convenience of the service.

Early 2000s

Spray Tan Boom

The early 2000s marked the peak of the spray tan's popularity. As more celebrities and influencers embraced the trend, the demand for spray tans skyrocketed. Spray tanning became a mainstream beauty service available at salons and even mobile tanning vans. The term 'spray tan' became widely used to describe this method of achieving an artificial tan.

Present day

Mainstream popularity and widespread use

Spray tanning has reached mainstream popularity and is widely used by individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It has become a common practice for special occasions, events, or simply to maintain a year-round tan. With advancements in the industry, spray tanning solutions now offer customizable shades and additional skin benefits, such as moisturizing or anti-aging properties.

Present Day

Innovation and Advancements

In recent years, the spray tan industry has continued to evolve with new innovations and advancements. From improved formulations that provide a more natural-looking tan to innovative spray tanning booths that offer quick and precise application, technology has played a significant role in enhancing the spray tanning experience. Today, spray tans are a popular choice for people looking for a sun-kissed glow without the harmful UV exposure.

Present Day

Continued Popularity and Technological Advancements

Spray tanning continues to be a highly sought-after beauty treatment in the present day. As the years have passed, advancements in spray tanning technology have led to the development of more sophisticated equipment and formulations. This has resulted in improved color options, faster drying times, and reduced scent, providing a more pleasant and customizable experience for individuals seeking a natural-looking tan without sun exposure.

Did you know?

Did you know that spray tans were first used on movie sets in the 1920s to achieve a consistent skin tone on black-and-white film? Imagine the surprise when technicolor films came along and showed that not everyone had naturally orange skin!