Sunless Tanning with AYU

Spray Tanning Equipmet Options – The Basics-Part-2

Let us explore hand held systems now and figure out what you need for your service you provide. Hope this helps and should you have more questions please email or leave us a comments.

Handheld Spray Systems

 

Handheld Spray equipment has the advantage of allowing a wide range of customization options. Both in types of solutions used, and the ability to adjust to spray coverage for each individual user needs.

 

Below are some of the more common handheld equipment options.

 

HVLP/LVLP/Spray Guns

 

These are lumped together in one heading because they all essentially do a similar type of application. They each spray the body with a handheld spray gun type device. These all cover a larger area, and spray at a faster rate, than a traditional airbrush.

There are different spray gun sizes and types, and each have advantages and disadvantages, but all can provide good coverage for the tanning solution against human skin assuming correct equipment type, adjustments, and technique are utilized.

Most units are noisy, though silent options are available. Silent or quiet versions are larger, heavier, less mobile and more expensive. These spray guns can be paired with turbines or larger compressors. Noise is related to the air delivery device (compressor or turbine type) rather than the spray device (gun or airbrush) used.

For good application and performance the correct hand held spray gun must be paired with the correct air distribution device for that guns needs.

The typical hardware store varieties are not the best recommendation because the gun type is not well suited for the thinner viscosity of spray solutions, which creates more issues with unevenness, spotting, fogging, overspray, solution waste. Hobby/home workshop grade unit motors are not normally well rated for the daily use that a spray tech will need them for, resulting in faster motor burn up. They are created for the occasional use of most home hobbyists, which is once or twice a year in many cases.But one should not feel pressured to purchase the most expensive system around, since cost alone does not dictate good functionality or superior performance. Good technique and proper application methods are the biggest factor in proper spray tan application.

 

Advantages:

·          Mobility, the tech can take equipment to clients home, trade shows and events

·          Fast application methods, in some cases as little at 2- 4 minutes for a full body spray

·          Variety of solution brands can be used if your equipment allows you to do so. Warranty will not normally be voided.

·          Can blow warm air to help warm and dry client

·          Rarely clogs, easy cleanup

 

Disadvantages:

·          Noisy unless you pay extra for special quiet housings

·          Can be bulky, depending on type

·          Tends to look industrial, which may not appeal to Spa visitors

·          Can be very messy if using incorrect equipment type, too large a nozzle, or improper pairing of equipment with turbines/compressors

 

 

Airbrush

Airbrushes and compressor based systems were the original application method for sunless spray application methods for many years. They produced great results, but have been largely replaced by the faster application methods utilizing spray gun technology. They consist of a small handheld airbrush, and a compressor that pushes the air through the airbrush to allow the solution to be sprayed onto the skin. Similar in concept to how an aerosol hair spray can delivers hairs spray at the touch of a button, using air compressed inside the can to pressurize and spray the contents. A compressor is a mechanical unit that delivers the compressed air to the hand held airbrush to paint the solution onto the body.

Airbrushes allow delicacy and detailed application, making them ideal for body art and cosmetic application methods. This allows a variety of specialized techniques including body contouring, filling in of tanning lines and other specialized effects that can be difficult to achieve with a spray gun system. Airbrushes are always paired with compressor-based systems. Not turbines.

 

Advantages:

·          Best option for body art, makeup and detail work

·          An airbrush is very small and light weight, easy to pack and maneuver especially for those with hand and wrist issues

·          Most units are very portable

 

Disadvantages:

·          Circular repetitive pattern needed for application, this can get very tiring to wrist and hand, could aggravate some types of repetitive stress related issues

·          Clogs easier then spray brushes, clean up takes longer

·          Requires longer application time, around 15-25 minutes

·          Requires more bending and kneeling on part of the tech, and longer standing time for client

·          Some brushes will not work with both thin and thick solutions types, so may limit product use options

·          Some states will only allow spray tan applications from HVLP systems with lower overspray ratings

 

Compressors:

The spray device you choose will dictate the air delivery unit you need. You cannot interchange all spray devices with all spray delivery units. Not only are connections a factor, but also the amount of air delivery and the force involved are factors that must be figured into the equation.  For the beginner, the best option is to purchase a package including the proper spray unit, with the correct hoses, fittings and spray device based on your needs and budget.

For Spray guns, a small compressor will need to run continually to provide consistent airflow for an airbrush or spray gun. Too small a compressor will not provide enough airflow for a spray gun to effectively spray solution, and can also cause fast system burnout.

Larger HVLP spray guns are not paired with compressors, as the amount of airflow needed is better met with a turbine system.

A compressor with storage tank, often has and "Auto On-Off" feature. This allows the compressor to shut off when tank is full of air. The unit will cycle on again to refill the tank as needed. A larger tank will refill less often.

A spray gun can drain a tank quite fast, creating complete loss of pressure, and delays in spraying as the tank refills. Spraying in short quick bursts, rather than long sprays will minimize this. An airbrush rarely drains a tank quickly, so much smaller tank sizes, or air amounts will work very efficiently.

 

Advantages:

·          Low cost

·          Small very portable units available

·          Readily available, from many sources

 

Disadvantages:

·          Won’t work with a large HVLP gun

·          Powerful models are generally heavy, less mobile

·          If you buy too small a compressor, early burnout can be an issue

·          Can be very noisy, vibrate or get hot to the touch

·          Tank models will need to refill often with a spray gun, unless a larger tank is used - short spray bursts will work best at lessening rapid air depletion

·          Oil filled models do leave a light "oily" odor in the air when used. Not a problem with normal ventilation, but you can smell it.

 

Turbines:

Turbines are basically a large fan that blows the air needed to run your spray equipment. They tend to be loud, unless fitted with a rheostat device. A rheostat can lessen airflow, but can also cause faster motor burn out.  They can produce large amounts of air in a smaller size, compared to what would be needed for the same amount of airflow in a compressor system. They will normally be paired with and LVLP or HVLP spray brush.

Advantages

·          Lighter weight then many similar powered compressors, more power less weight

·          Lots of power, needed for larger bored HVLP spray guns

Disadvantages

·          Loud unless paired with a quiet box housing, or Rheostat device

·          Sound muffling boxes can be bulky, look for wheeled versions, which are easy to maneuver

·          More mobility for HVLP and LVLP options

·          Can be to powerful for the gun, producing fogging

·          Most units look “shop like” though some attractive options available

·          Will not work with an airbrush without modifications

 

 

Spray Tanning Equipmet Options – The Basics

Let us start learning about equipments necessary for the business, we will talk about one at a time so we can get basic ideas of each.

For the novice entering the spray tan industry the range of equipment types and options can be daunting. Trying to explain the pros and cons of each method can even be more confusing. It would be difficult to cover a broad subject of this type in detail in the brief room available in this article, but I will address some of the basics. This is more for general understanding, for more detailed specifics; speak to the companies you will purchase your equipments from, as well as other users of the products you are looking at.

Lets first start with spray tanning booths

Booths:

Sunless spray booths come in the traditional enclosed “booth” and an “open” non enclosed variety. A spray booth is a walk-in box, similar to a phone booth in shape, though larger. It’s normally fully enclosed and contains spray nozzles in the walls to spray self tanning solution over the customer. The easiest analogy would be to think of a drive through carwash. Some varieties have movable arms that move around the clients, others have stationary nozzles which require the client to move, and pose in specific stances to obtain even coverage. One company distributes an open variety, that consist of a back panel and two pillars, that the client stands between, one sprays solution the other houses drying fans. But the customer is standing in an open area, rather than an enclosed booth.

The biggest advantage of booth units is the fact that you do not need a well trained spray tanning technician to apply the solution. Training required is minimal, and the spray process itself is automated. This also allows the customer to be sprayed completely in private.

Here is an example of the spray tanning booth.

                           

 

Advantages:

Does not require a technician to stand with the customer during the application session, so it is closer to automatic application.

Technicians require little training to run equipment, and once client is taught, additional instruction is rarely needed

Client has complete privacy during the spray session, making nude, or partially undressed application options, more comfortable

Session not tied to technicians availability timeframe, only limited by salon hours

Full body coverage, including back, unlike home applied applications

Fast application, usually a few minutes

Disadvantages:

Technician does need to adequately understand AND explain technique and stance issues to clients or poor results will occur

Difficult to customize solution application for sensitive body areas, or skin types, which can result in off color, poor color issues. (especially hands, feet, face)

Streaks, runs and missed areas can occur

Customers with respiratory issues, claustrophobia or noise sensitivity may be unable to use enclosed booths

Can be difficult to adjust coverage for clients of different body sizes or heights.

Limits ability to use different solutions based on client skin needs or preference

Booth brand may limit the types and brands of solutions you are able to use. Warranty or performance can be effected if using alternate solution brands

Depending on equipment type, solution usage amounts can vary greatly from 2ozs to 6 ozs per client.

Can be noisy, depends on unit

Clean up and clogging can be an issue, depending on unit type, age, brand, solution used

mechanical breakdowns can make the unit unusable, must have goods access to manufacture assistance

Hair cap, goggles, barrier creams etc need to be available for every client and solution must be spread around to cover missed areas from protective devices.

Initial purchase price is high, harder to recoup cost if customers do not like the unit

New Products and cruelty free testing!

AYU Sunless is continuously looking for new product testers , we are committed to cruelty free product testing methods , If you are interested in being a volunteer product tester for our sunless and spa products , please email us at info@ayusunelss.com  and in the subject please write Volunteer product testing. this is a fun way to be involve in our new product development and get your voice heard. we always use 20 volunteer for one product testing but you can keep signing up as we are always creating new products.

We formulate our products using carefully chosen ingredients , natural, organic and cosmetic.Once product is ready I test first and then give it to our lab staff once we approve we send out to our panel testers. Our product will come with product evaluation questions, please try and answer as soon as possible for quick turn around time and to be fair for all the volunteers.

Hope you will join us with our present panel tester and once you submit your evolution forms, we will send some Thank you gifts :)

Should you have any questions please email us at info@ayusunless.com or post a comment here.

Start your own business!

Hello there,

hope this post finds you well.

I often receive phone calls from people who wants to start sunless tanning business but don't know where to start, so lets talk about some general information on starting a spray tanning business or becoming a airbrush technician.

Airbrush tanning has gained popularity in last five to six years, it has becoming a lifestyle with some people, tanning is not only for summer any more, with spray tanning It is so easy to have tan for any occasions, sunless tanning  takes less than 1/2 hour to complete a whole sessions and only takes 10 to 15 minutes to spray tan average person.

now questions is who can become a technician , some sates are trying to get sunless tanning ( Airbrush tanning) regulated by cosmetology association so make sure if you are interested in becoming a airbrush technician  call up your state boards or find out by goggling  your state + Board of cosmetology.

If you have any skin care or beauty industry experience it is a plus, because sunless tanning is more like a skin treatment  or pampering spa therapy and knowing some basic skills of skin care can come very handy. since most State do not restrict the application of sunless tanners to only beauticians or cosmetologist any one can try and learn the art, it is a skillful art that needs a lot of practice, get understanding of different equipments, spray tanning solution and pre and post tanning care products etc.

next big question is regarding Insurance, do you need insurance to start spray tanning business.

In my opinion no business owner should be without liability insurance, it is good idea to protect your self and your business from what could happen. look around for insurance companies  that covers salon services etc and if you don't have any luck drop us an email or leave us a comment we will help you find a insurance company.

hope this helps , Smiles and Happy Sunless tanning!

Best Wishes,

Vibha

How sunless tanning works?

Hello everyone,

let us explore a little about what is sunless tanning. air brush tanning or spray tanning. All of these  treatments have the same meaning, it is an application of sunless tanner on the skin via different techniques and by using different equipments.

Spray tanning is one of the fastest growing segment in beauty industry, as more and more individual recognizes the adverse effect of sun bathing , airbrush spray tanning has become alternative safe choice to achieve tan color that is highly recommended by dermatologist as well.

so next question is what is sunless tanners and how they work?

Sunless tanners refers to products that provide a tanned appearance without exposure to the sun. active ingredient in sunless tanner is call Dihydroxyacetone ( DHA), it derives from sugar and it reacts with amino acids found in the top layers of skin to create a shade of brown, the effect takes place within 2 to 6 hours.

What is sunless tanning solution and how does it work?

The compositions of sunless tanning solutions are generally mixtures which produce a natural brown "Tan color" to the outer layer of the skin. This reaction is known as the Maillard reaction also known as "nonenzymematic browning". It can be influenced by several factors such as skin type, thickness, medications and dryness of the skin. The total composition of the sunless tanning solution greatly influences consistency, hue, intensity and substantivity of the final tan. To optimize this reaction certain conditions need to be met. As far as skin condition is concerned, it is important that exfoliation is carried out to remove loose/dead skin from the surface.

Sunless tanning is also affected by pH both on the skin and in the product itself. The development of the color takes anywhere from 2-4 hours, The intensity of the color is dependent on the formulation concentration of the Dihydroxyacetone in the product.

Hope this takes a guess works out of how sunless tanning works, if you have any comments or questions please fell free to post a comments here and I will get back to you.

Happy Sunless tanning!

 

Introduction

Welcome to AYU Sunless tanning blog – we are so glad you have found us, now please make sure and stop by often. This is more than just a great spot to find out latest news form AYU Sunless. We want to make this as an e-zine to help you out with finding  a good sunless tanning or spa products, we will also find a way to create post about how you can start sunless tanning business and share some of our other favorite website , tips and recipes for perfect sunless tanning and spa treatments. it should be a fun ride!

 

Why did I choose to blog about sunless tanning products?  In last five years of us manufacturing sunless tanning and related skin care products we have learned lots of tricks and tips on how to apply self tanners and what to do and what to avoid with sunless tanning and would like to open up the door to share the knowledge, not only that we would like to learn from you and your experience and help out new beginners so we can make sunless tanning fun and not a chore!

 

I am also very grateful to all our clients who have shared in AYU ‘s success over the last four years and we are hoping to give little something back to everyone who has supported us so loyally. We want you to be first to hear about new product launches and specials and discount offers, our volunteer product testers program and product surveys where you can tell us what you want us to create new! So please drop in for the moments when you get few minutes and see what we are up too!  

 

Today is the last day of 2008 and beginning of year 2009.

I  wish you all a Happy Healthy and Prosperous new year!

Happy New Year! J Peace and Love

Vibha Makwana