Spray tan consent, patch testing and pregnancy

The complaints in spray tanning are overwhelmingly about the result, and the result is largely decided before the appointment: moisturiser, deodorant, makeup, waxing that morning, exfoliation that did not happen.

Which means the intake form has a job most consent forms do not - it is your last chance to change the client's behaviour while there is still time. Sent at booking, it works. Handed over on arrival, it is a record of what went wrong.

Dihydroxyacetone reacts with amino acids in the outermost skin layer. It is well tolerated by most people, but sensitivity exists and reactions are unpleasant on a full-body application.

A patch test 24 hours before a first appointment is straightforward and worth documenting. It matters more for clients with eczema, psoriasis or a history of cosmetic reactions.

There is no strong evidence that topical DHA is harmful in pregnancy, and it is generally considered low risk. Two practical points remain.

First, pregnancy changes skin - hormonal pigmentation can make a tan develop unevenly, and it is fair to say so in advance rather than after.

Second, some clients will want to avoid it regardless, and some will want to check with a midwife. Recording that you asked and what they said is the right outcome either way. Inhalation is the sensible caution, so ventilation and a barrier for the airways are worth having as standard.

The instructions that matter are simple and almost never followed without a reminder: wait the stated hours before the first shower, warm water and no soap that first time, pat dry, then moisturise daily.

Sending them automatically the moment the client signs is the difference between advice given and advice received. Worth adding the line that a spray tan is not sun protection, because a surprising number of people assume it is.