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Spray tans offer alternative to traditional tanning beds

By Barbara Brown
People with sunlight sensitivity, previous experiences with skin cancer or who donít want to take risks associated with UV ray exposure now have an alternative for bronzed skin.

At Cool Beanz, North Branchís newest eatery and tanning salon, people with skin ailments or others who just want quick color can get a sprayed-on sunless tan.

Before opening their salon and coffee shop in May, Pam Goodroad and Lori Goodroad, sisters-in-law, were certified as spray technicians by the National Tanning Institute.

While the certification is not a requirement in Minnesota, Lori Goodroad said they wanted to get certified so they would have a professional, highly trained staff.

Using an air brush wand, the Goodroads can give even the palest person an all-over warm glow with a special spray-on tan mixture.

The product, a derivative of sugar cane, is specially made for use in tanning salons.
It is fed through an air pump which makes the coloring mist lightly onto the skin.

In about 25 minutes, the ìtannerî comes out of the small application room looking like they recently went on a vacation without the extra time or expense.
Megan Johnson said she used the spray-on method because she found out the hard way that her skin is sensitive to the traditional tanning bed process.

ìMy skin would get really itchy with the tanning beds,î Johnson said.

But, Johnson said she wanted to have a tanned look to compliment her prom dress, so the recent North Branch High School graduate went to Cool Beanz for help.

The tan lasted five days for Johnson and Lori Goodroad said it can last up to seven days for some people.

Itís a good idea to shave legs and underarms as well as exfoliate the skin before arriving for a sunless tanning session, Lori Goodroad said, but unlike for a traditional tanning session, exfoliation can be done only an hour before getting sprayed.
Within minutes, the color reacts to skin and color begins to show.

Lori Goodroad said spray tan customers should plan their visit so they will not need to shower for at least 8 after their session to allow time for the spray to set properly.

The spray continues to darken for up to eight hours, so even if the tanner doesnít look dark immediately after their session, the tone will change with time.

Spray-on tanning has been around since the 1930s, Lori Goodroad said.

The spray and method of application were approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the 1970s.

Cool Beanz is the only local salon to date to offer the spray-on method. Lori Goodroad said having the service in North Branch will save customers a trip to the Twin Cities area, where other salons have started to offer it.

Pam Goodroad said that while tanning beds are safe and effective for most people, she is excited to offer the alternative spray-on.

ìThis is just great for people who are allergic to the sun,î Pam Goodroad said.

ìI just want to be in those peopleís houses when they get up in the morning and see the smiles on their faces when they see themselves with a tan for the first time in their lives.î

Customers can wear a bathing suit to their session, but if they are under 18, a parent or other adult is required to stay in the application room with them. The spray washes out of nearly all clothing materials.

Cost for one session is $25; three is $50 and five sessions cost $75.

To make an appointment, call(651) 277-2326.


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