A bronzed tan is the perfect pick-me-up this cold season, and 24/7 booths make it more convenient than ever
If you’re feeling like the winter chill has made the sun a lovely, distant memory and summer holidays a mirage on the horizon, you’re not alone. While the months ahead may appear shivery and dull, that doesn’t mean your skin has to be. A sun-kissed tan isn’t just a precursor to a European getaway. If you’re staying on our shores, a winter glow can go a long way to improving your confidence when the weather is dreary. Thanks to the advent of self-serve tanning booths, access to this winter pick-me-up is more convenient than ever.
With locations at North Adelaide, Hyde Park and Gawler, The Tan Club Co.’s self-tanning studios operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their in-house app is a one-stop shop for a seamless tanning experience, with membership information, an appointment scheduler and shade-matching quiz.
“Having a 24/7 self-serve studio means you can tan whenever it suits you,” says owner Chloe Neil. Whether it’s before brunch, between meetings or after bedtime, the curated experience is designed to fit into your schedule, not the inverse. For a fuss-free mood booster, here’s everything you need to know about getting your glow on.
Foolproof Prep
Going chronologically, the first preparation step to consider is hair removal. Any waxing or shaving should be done at least 24 hours before your appointment. If you’re partial to laser hair removal or electrolysis, a week in advance is ideal. This goes a long way to avoiding irritation and bumps.
Next step: exfoliation. Take your tool of choice—body brush, exfoliating mitt, African net sponge or even the humble cotton flannel—to remove dead skin cells and provide a smooth, even canvas for the tan to adhere to.
On the day, skip the lotions. Moisturisers and oils are a no-no: they can create a barrier for the tanning formula and prevent even development. Wear slip-on shoes and loose, dark clothing to your appointment to minimise the risk of any tan transfer.
Speedy, Sun-Kissed Sessions
To demystify the process, The Tan Club Co. have easy-to-follow access guides on their website and app. At the time of your appointment, arrive at the studio, select your tan from the menu and check in via your phone. The booth will be warming up when you enter, and everything you need is in the studio, from sticky feet to hairnets. Make sure to remove all clothing and any jewellery.
If desired, priming lotion is supplied to aid the tan’s colour and longevity. Apply barrier cream to hands, elbows, knees and the tops of your feet to avoid overdevelopment. If anything goes amiss in the booth, touch-up foam and spray are on hand to fix mistakes. All of The Tan Club Co.’s formulas are vegan, cruelty-free and suitable for all skin types.
In case of issues, there’s a direct, 24-hour support line signposted in the studio, so help is always at hand.
Bask in the Afterglow
To extend your glow for as long as possible, the first 24 hours post-session are critical. Have those dark, loose clothes close to hand to keep rubbing or staining to a minimum. Avoid strenuous, sweaty exercise to ensure your tan develops evenly, and when you take your first shower, keep it lukewarm and brief—30 seconds, or until the water runs clear. Gently pat your skin dry with a towel.
After the first 24 hours, you can introduce moisturisers back into your daily routine to maintain your tan’s vibrancy. Just ensure that whatever product you’re using, it’s free of oils and fragrances. After four days, consider adding in a gradual tanning lotion to enhance your colour; an application every other day is ideal. Once the tan starts to fade naturally, incorporate gentle exfoliation. Just steer clear or any harsh exfoliants, chemical or physical—they can cause uneven fading.
If you’re ready for your winter pick-me-up, visit The Tan Club Co.’s website or download their app to get started.
The Tan Club Co.
31 O’Connell Street, North Adelaide
Shop 2/155 King William Road, Hyde Park
69 Murray Street, Gawler
08 7221 2474
South Australian Style Magazine 