News & Politics

Best of Washington 2012: Fabulous Fake Tans

A spray tan is the easiest way to get a healthy glow. But not all sprays are created equal. We tested booths and professional airbrushers to find the best places to get a natural-looking tan.

Best Organic Tan

Best Place to Go “Tantiquing”

Best Way to Tan at Home

Best Chain

Salon Ninotch Fit to Be Tan Kellys Mobile Tan Palm Beach Tan
Location/Contact Info 7720 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 217; Bethesda; 301-913-0345 1626 U St., NW; 202-332-0360 703-655-6025; kellysmobiletan.com Multiple area locations; palmbeachtan.com
The experience Tanistas customize the perfect shade for you with four organic
options—there are no smelly chemicals.
HGTV meets MTV in this hand-spray tanning spa tucked in back of an
antiques shop.
Kelly Lovallo brings her equipment and a pop-up tent to keep your
bathroom—and you—spotless.
Three-minute booth spray tans. You’re on your own, so learn the
four tanning positions and smooth barrier cream on your hands and feet
to prevent streaking.
Cost $45 $50 $90 to $120 depending on location $45 for a single session
Bottom line A lightly scented, believable bronze color, plus add-ons such as a
shimmery topcoat for extra glow.
Expert airbrushers save the whitewash finish for their coffee
tables, leaving you with a golden glow as natural-looking and
long-lasting as they come.
Smooth, streak-free color in less than 15 minutes—plus no need to
don dark, loose clothing afterward to prevent streaking.
VersaSpa delivers a more natural, goof-proof, sun-kissed glow than
the Mystic booth. Tan lasted four days, half as long as
hand-airbrushed versions.

Best of Washington 2012

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