Where are the best places to get a spray tan in Canberra? Photo: File.
Some of us just don’t have the complexion to tan naturally, and in Australia a natural tan might not actually be the safest option for you. As we all know, prolonged exposure to UV rays can dramatically increase your risk of skin cancer later in life, and cause premature ageing. So, if you’re after beautifully bronzed skin in time for summer or an upcoming event without any of the serious health risks, why not consider getting a professional spray tan?
A spray tan is a fast and affordable way to get a natural-looking tan, and when applied properly, can give your skin a sun-kissed appearance as if you just spent the last week lying on the beach in the sun – with none of the risks! But what should you be looking for in a tanning salon to make sure you’re getting high-quality treatment, and aren’t running the risk of a discoloured or patchy tan?
In this article, we’ll share some tips on what to look for in a great spray tan salon, as well as a guide to some of Canberra’s best spots.
What makes a great spray tanning salon?
Not sure what constitutes a top-quality spray tan? Here’s what we suggest looking for in a salon:
- The right colour. The best spray tan applicators colour-match their tans to suit your natural skin tone. When done properly, the tan looks natural. When done poorly, your tan looks fake and out of place.
- Seamless application. No streaks and no patches! You want your tan to sit seamlessly on your skin.
- Comfortable experience. When getting a tan, you’ll have to strip down – there’s no avoiding it! The best salons make you feel comfortable and confident by providing a clean environment and plenty of privacy.
- Proper hygiene. Like any beauty treatment, proper hygiene is vital. The spray tanning salon should be clean and clear of past customers’ spray tans.
- After-care information. You want to get the most out of your fake tan. Your beauty therapist should supply you with plenty of after-care information so your tan lasts as long as possible.
The best spray tanning salons in Canberra
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on both Google and Facebook reviews.
Brazilian Butterfly
The team at Brazilian Butterfly guarantees instantly natural-looking tan after you visit them for a spray tan. They’ve partnered with Australian-owned company Moroccan Tan, offering a variety of tones to suit both men and women of all skin types, and your beauty therapist will be able to guide you on the ideal base colour and after-care for your skin tone.
As Stephanie Apperley writes in their Google review, “Second time visiting Brazilian Butterfly Canberra and I can't fault my experience. Staff are friendly, on time and clean!!!”
Malibu Spray
Years of experience, a committed team, and an excellent track record make Malibu Spray one of the best places to get a flawless tan. With their bridal & formal tanning options as well as other beauty treatments, the therapists at Malibu Spray care about boosting your confidence and about making you feel happy and confident in your own skin, whatever the occasion.
Facebook user Hazel O’Neil wrote the following review of their experience at Malibu Spray, “Very friendly and relaxed atmosphere, so in love with my tan.”
Wax Monkey
Wax Monkey salon sets themselves apart with their 1950s grease monkey workshop-inspired salon, specialising in “mechanics for your body.” Our team of trained technicians ensure privacy, confidentiality and professional service for all clients, and will help you choose the tan that best suits your skin tone, skin type and the event you’re preparing for.
Google reviewer Rachel Cameron had this to say about their recent tanning experience at Wax Monkey, “Such thoughtful and caring girls! So sweet and explained things super well. Matched a great colour to my undertone and have a few helpful tips about when to wash off and how it will develop! Best tanning experience.”
Bronze Beauty
For more than a decade, Bronze Beauty has been one of Canberra’s most prestigious tanning studios. With a number of top-quality spray tans on offer – as well as body waxing services – Bronze Beauty will keep you looking sun-kissed and youthful all year long. What’s more, Bronze Beauty has recently renovated its salon, so expect top-of the line facilities at your next visit!
Erin Staib writes in their Google review of Bronze Beauty, “Owned by a lovely lady, helped talk me through getting a spray tan n how to take care of it. When you're a newbie you appreciate these things.”
Faux Tanning Studio
With more than 25 world-leading spray tan brands to choose from, a trip to Canberra’s premiere spray tan salon, Faux Tanning Studio, is sure to leave you glowing from head to toe. Their team of fully accredited beauty therapists offer multiple packages at affordable prices and are here to have you looking bronzed and beautiful for any occasion!
As happy customer India Green writes in their Google review, “Most amazing tan every single time. I'll never visit anywhere else!”
Looking to treat yourself in Canberra with some time in the beauty salons? Check out our articles on the best waxing salons, nail salons and day spas in town for some great recommendations.
Your experience with spray tanning salons in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback, if you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Where do you get spray tans in Canberra? Share your experience in the comments area below.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have sensitive skin. Will a spray tan work on my skin?
There are spray tanning products out there that are designed specifically for those with sensitive skin. Whether your skin is naturally quite dry, which will make the tan not last as long, or quite oily which will affect initial application, or simply hypersensitive to products, talk to the person doing your tan and see what options they have for you.
How long does a spray tan last?
This depends on and how dark your tan is. Lighter tans will usually last a week or so, while darker tans can last up to 10 days. The quality of the tanning product will also impact the longevity of your tan. Look for the best salons to be sure your tan will last.
How can I take care of a spray tan?
The best way to take care of a spray tan is to moisturise your skin regularly so that it fades evenly as it gets older. You also want to avoid exfoliating your tanned skin - avoid long, hot showers or baths, pat yourself dry, and don't swim in chlorinated or salt water for at least two days after getting your tanned.
Is a spray tan better than a DIY fake tan?
Yes! Getting a professional spray tan ensures even coverage over your entire body, since someone else is going to be able to get to to any hard-to-reach places that you can't quite get on your own. Also, the products used in professional salons can be higher quality than DIY fake tan, so are more likely to last a long time and not become discoloured.
How do I prepare for a spray tan?
The night before your tan, exfoliate all over and shave the areas you want tanned to ensure perfectly even coverage. Moisturise the night before and not right before the appointment, as any oils or creams can affect the application of the tan. And make sure you wear loose, dark clothes to the appointment - after the appointment, some of the tan may rub off onto your clothes, and tight clothes can exacerbate this.
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