Spray Tan vs. Tanning Beds: Which Is Safer and More Effective?
Let’s get one thing straight: glowing skin is always in. But how you get that glow? It matters. If you’ve been torn between hopping into a tanning bed or booking that flawless Just Peachy spray tan, this one’s for you.
Spoiler alert: there’s a clear winner. (And she’s bronzed, hydrated, and smarter than UV damage.)
Today we’re breaking down the facts—spray tan vs. tanning beds: which is safer and more effective? Let's dive into the glow science.
What Happens During a Spray Tan?
Spray tanning is a sunless tanning method where a fine mist is sprayed onto your body. The magic ingredient is DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a colorless sugar that reacts with the amino acids on the surface of your skin to create a gorgeous golden-brown color.
No UV rays. No skin cell damage. Just a bronzed, even tan that develops over a few hours and lasts about 7–10 days.
At Just Peachy, every spray tan is:
Custom-blended to your perfect shade
Applied by trained pros who know their angles
Finished with our signature Drying Powder for a flawless, soft-touch feel
What Happens in a Tanning Bed?
Tanning beds use concentrated UV radiation to darken the skin by stimulating melanin production—the same process your body goes through when exposed to the sun.
While it might feel fast and convenient, it comes with some serious risks:
Increased risk of skin cancer (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma)
Premature aging (wrinkles, sunspots, sagging)
Skin damage at the cellular level
Translation: that "glow" today could mean serious skin regrets down the line.
Spray Tan vs. Tanning Beds: Which Is Safer?
This one’s not even close.
Spray tans are significantly safer than tanning beds.
Spray tans involve zero UV exposure.
No DNA damage, no radiation risks.
Quick, easy, and safe for all skin types and ages.
Tanning beds, on the other hand? The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified them as a Group 1 carcinogen (the same category as cigarettes).
Glowing should never come with a side of cancer risk.
Spray Tan vs. Tanning Beds: Which Is More Effective?
Let’s talk about results, because safety isn’t the only win here.
Spray Tans:
Customizable to any skin tone or depth (from barely-there glow to deep bronze)
Immediate visible results after your first rinse
No streaking, patchiness, or uneven fade with the right prep and aftercare
Buildable over time with safe reapplications
Tanning Beds:
Can take multiple sessions to build color (time = $$$)
Color results depend on skin's natural melanin
Risk of burning, peeling, or uneven tanning
In short: a spray tan gets you there faster, safer, and with way fewer drama moments. Period.
Why Clients Are Choosing Spray Tans Over Tanning Beds
The trend is clear: more people are ditching the bed for the booth.
Why?
Health consciousness is on the rise
Instant gratification (we love a same-day glow!)
Better color control for special events, vacations, and photo shoots
Inclusive beauty — spray tanning is for every body, every shade, every season
And let's be honest: there's just something about stepping out of a spray tan appointment looking like a sun-kissed goddess without any of the sun damage.
Spray Tan FAQs (Because We Know You're Wondering)
Q: Will I look orange? Absolutely not—not at Just Peachy, anyway. We custom blend every tan to match your skin tone and glow goals. (Cheeto chic is not a vibe.)
Q: How long does a spray tan last? Typically 7–10 days with proper prep and aftercare.
Q: Does a spray tan smell weird? Not with our Vacay Mode Sunless solutions! Expect fresh, light tropical scents, never that "fake tan" smell.
Q: Can I get a spray tan if I have sensitive skin? Yes! We use gentle, skin-loving formulas perfect for even the most delicate babes.
