Fake Tanning: Manual V Spray

Firstly, just to clarify the differences between the two types of fake tanning. Manual tanning is applied directly onto and into the skin that has been prepared usually in a cream or lotion format and then is allowed to develop.Spray tan is applied using a compressor type air gun and is applied in a very fine mist in a liquid format and sits onto the skin until it soaks in and then develops.

Manual tanning has made a big come from in recent times. Whilst previously it was all about spray tanning treatments for numerous reasons: quickness of the treatment, even application and less product generally used. But with clients wanting  to come to the salon, or treatment area and enjoy a full treatment that involves them giving up an hour or so of their time. This has really helped the manual tan application see a big come back hit!
From my experience of learning many moons ago the application of manual tanning before spray tan was even out there....I know myself, I wasn't too keen to see this come back. I remember messy applications and worrying whether the client would get markings from rolling over the treatment couch.
As a business owner, it is really important to re-evaluate your treatments and listen to what your customers want from their services and treatments.
My clients have come to me for 20 years plus, they want a relaxing, special time to themselves. One when they come to have a treatment they free up a couple of hours to block out the outside world and sit on my treatment couch and relax.
Having a manual tanning treatment means to them that they get a full body exfoliation done for them and moisturiser application, then with the added benefit of a self tanning lotion that is creamed into the skin and buffed over to ensure even application.
Don`t get me wrong, I love the whole spray tanning process, for quickness and for even application. Lets face it,application comes from the therapist. This can be uneven  with spray or manual application right?
Feedback from my clients on manual tanning is that they can lie back onto the treatment couch, listen to relaxing music, have a warm, snug environment and feel like they are experienced a massage procedure whilst the tanning cream is being applied.

Spray tanning is meant to be an express treatment. You cant really talk during the treatment because we all know the machines sound similar to a hoover! Its over and done with in less than half an hour. Which is great for the people that have no time on their hands, and want a quick pop in service or treatment.

Whilst I have looked into express services and wrote a blog about them. Sometimes you need to open up your ears and listen to what the customer wants. Look at the age range of customers that visit your salon and see how the treatment received can be presented in a slightly different way depending on the age range perhaps?
My older customers liked the fact that they got to have a full exfoliation treatment with their manual tanning because they found it hard to do their own backs and legs for instance.
Of course, you could use the knowledge and combine the two treatments.....have an exfoliation service offered prior to having a spray tanning treatment and charge a little extra for the privilege and see what the customers feedback to you on it.
Remember the old saying: The customers are always right!
Until next time
Take care
Love & Sparkle
Caroline King
Check out my training website www.steppingstonestrainingacademy.co.uk for details of tanning courses in manual and spray application level 1 & 2