Sunless Sessions Blog by Darlene: July 2025

Saturday, July 26, 2025

How Stress, Anxiety & Mental Health Affect Spray Tan Results: Pro Skin Insights for Spray Tan Artists

Author| Darlene Clattenburg | July 26, 2025 | Sunless Sessions Blog

Overview:

Stress, anxiety, and mental health fluctuations trigger physiological changes in the body that directly impact the skin — and consequently, spray tan results. Understanding these effects helps professional spray tan artists anticipate challenges and apply strategies to ensure even, long-lasting tans.

1. Hormonal Effects on Skin and Spray Tan Quality:

Cortisol Release: Stress increases cortisol, altering sebum production and skin hydration.
- Impact on spray tan: Excess oil or dry skin can prevent DHA from developing evenly, leading to streaks or uneven color.
Adrenaline Release: Causes temporary vasoconstriction and increased sweating.
- Impact on spray tan: Reduced blood flow can make skin appear dull, affecting tan absorption, while sweating can dilute or wash away DHA in moisture-prone areas.

2. Skin pH Imbalance:

Stress can shift skin pH, making it more acidic or alkaline.
Impact on spray tan: DHA develops best on balanced skin; pH fluctuations may cause uneven color, orange tones, or patchiness.

3. Circulation and Skin Health:

Stress-related vasoconstriction limits nutrient and oxygen delivery to the skin.
Impact on spray tan: Skin may appear dull or blotchy, potentially affecting tan uniformity.

4. Increased Sweat and Oil Production:

Nervous sweating commonly occurs in underarms, palms, scalp, and back of knees.
Impact on spray tan: Excess moisture can block DHA adhesion, causing lighter spots or uneven coverage.

5. Skin Barrier and Sensitivity:

Chronic stress can weaken the skin barrier, increasing redness, irritation, or sensitivity.
Impact on spray tan: Tan may adhere unevenly to inflamed areas, and flakiness can shorten the tan’s lifespan.

Pro Strategies for Stress-Related Skin Challenges:

Client Prep: Encourage exfoliation and hydration pre-tan to normalize pH and remove skin barriers.
Barrier Protection: Apply thin protective layers to high-sweat zones (underarms, palms, hairline).
Hydration Support: Recommend clients drink water before and after their spray tan to maintain skin elasticity.
Calming Environment: Use soothing scents, music, or deep-breathing techniques to reduce client stress, which supports skin health.
Customized Aftercare: Advise gentle moisturizing and avoiding friction on sensitive areas to preserve tan longevity.

Key Takeaway:

Stress, anxiety, and mental health fluctuations do not prevent a spray tan from developing but can introduce variables that impact absorption, color consistency, and longevity. By understanding these effects and implementing professional strategies, spray tan artists can consistently deliver flawless, long-lasting results.

Saturday, July 19, 2025

Achieve a Flawless, Natural Glow Spray Tan—Without the Harmful UV Rays

The Ultimate Guide to Prepare for a Flawless Spray Tan

Author | Darlene Clattenburg |July 19, 2025 | Sunless Sessions Blog

To achieve the best results from a spray tan, thorough preparation and diligent maintenance are essential. These steps are critical in ensuring an even application and maximizing the longevity of your tan. Let's dive into why these measures are so vital and explore how you can extend the lifespan of your spray tan.

Preparation Tips for a Perfect Spray Tan:

NO DOVE PRODUCTS!!! IF YOU ARE SUN BURNT - RESCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!!!

Before your spray tan appointment, properly preparing your skin is important. Start by exfoliating at least 24 hours before your session. Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells, creating a smooth surface for the spray tan solution to adhere evenly. Avoid oil-based exfoliants as they can leave a residue that hinders proper absorption.

Use sunless spray tan products, you can find them at most spray tan businesses, major drug stores or department stores, or from the company itself. Some companies offer sample sizes, which are great for travelling and the best way to prepare for a spray tan.

Your Custom Glow, Delivered

Beauty services such as manicures/pedicures, or waxing are done before your spray tan appointment. Refrain from tight-fitting clothing, tight footwear, hot tubs, hot baths or hand washing until 48 hours after your spray tan. This is when the tan has finished processing.

On the day of your appointment, you must refrain from applying lotions, deodorant, or makeup as these can create barriers on your skin, leading to uneven colour. Ask your technician for cleansing wipes, undergarments, hair ties, or other necessary items. It is imperative to inform your technician about dry skin patches or conditions to ensure an even tan. Furthermore, remember to wear loose, dark clothing to your session to avoid smudging the tan while it develops.

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Why Spray Tan Maintenance is Key:

Once your spray tan is applied, how you care for it determines its longevity and evenness. If you use a regular spray tan solution, wait at least 8-12 hours before your first rinse (n0 soap). For rapid spray tan solutions, follow the recommended rinsing time.

When you do rinse, use lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing your skin. Pat your skin dry gently to avoid lifting the colour. Start moisturizing now, additionally, it is advised to drink water or hydration drinks. Sorry, wine is not for hydration, wine is for fun.

To maintain your tan longer, keep your skin moisturized. Hydrated skin holds colour better, so use a moisturizer daily after your first rinse. Ideally, a moisturizer that’s free from harsh ingredients like alcohol or artificial fragrances.

Your Custom Glow Delivered

Products that Maintain your Spray Tan Colour:

Face Tan Water: This lightweight, clear tanning water is packed with vitamins and hydrating ingredients that will enhance your spray tan or rejuvenate your complexion. It's also perfect to use on your hands when they start to fade.

Tan Extenders: This low-DHA, lotion is designed to lengthen the colour of your spray tan. Made to replenish your glow with colour, hydration, and nutrients that you lose as the tan fades. They are the best lotions to use following your sessions or whenever you need a boost of colour. Apply with a mitt for a streak-free application and to protect your palms from unwanted colour.

Self-tan Mousse: Easy to apply, fast drying and streak-free mousse that has a higher DHA than a tan extender. A great product to use when your tan is fading to extend the glow while hydrating the skin. Apply with a mitt for a streak-free application and to protect your palms from unwanted colour.

Liquid Sunshine Mobile Spray Tan

Saturday, July 12, 2025

Boost Your Spray Tan Business with Add-On Services

Boost Your Spray Tan Business with 💰💰 Add-On Services

— Real Ways to Make More Money and Keep Clients Coming Back

Let’s be honest: giving a good spray tan is expected. But giving a killer spray tan experience? That’s what makes your business stand out. And that’s where add-on services come in.

These little upgrades not only increase your income (without adding much time), but they also make your clients feel pampered, polished, and taken care of. It’s the small details that make a big difference.

Here’s a breakdown of the top add-on services you can start offering right away — and why they’re worth it.

💦 Top Coat – For That Hydrated, Smells-Like-Heaven Finish

This isn’t just a “nice extra” — it locks in moisture, helps the tan fade more evenly, and leaves their skin feeling soft and smelling amazing. I call this the “Glow Lock”. Clients love that they leave feeling fresh, not sticky.

👉 Perfect for events, weddings, or any client who wants a more luxe finish.

⚖️ Base Coat – The Prep Step Most Artists Skip

This is like primer before makeup. It balances the skin’s pH levels and helps the tan absorb better and last longer.

Honestly, offering a base coat shows your clients you're a step ahead of the rest. It’s that professional touch that gets noticed — especially by clients with dry or uneven skin..

✨ Shimmer Drops – Add Some Glam to That Glow

Want to help your client feel like a bronzed goddess? Offer shimmer drops in gold or platinum. It gives their tan a radiant, red-carpet finish — and it’s customizable.

This is a fun one to offer when clients are heading to a vacation, wedding, or girls’ night out. Call it your “Golden Hour Glow” or “Glow Up Drop-In” — make it sexy and fun.

🔥 DHA Boosting Drops – For a Deeper, Richer Tan

These are a must for clients who want to go darker or who have that stubborn, hard-to-tan skin. A few drops in the solution make a huge difference in depth and longevity.

Think of this as your “Bold Babe” add-on. It’s powerful — and your clients will notice the difference right away.

🧼 Sunless Setting Powder – No Sticky, No Transfer, No Worries

This one is always a hit. Setting powder removes that sticky post-tan feeling and stops any transfer onto clothes or sheets.

Especially helpful for busy moms, office gals, or anyone tanning midday. You’ll hear “OMG I love that powder” more times than you can count.

💡 Why Add-On Services Matter

These little upgrades are where the money is. They don’t take much extra
time, but they do increase your ticket average, show your professionalism, and
make your client feel taken care of. They’re what keeps your clients coming back.

👏 Bottom Line: These Extras Set You Apart

In a crowded spray tan market, your service needs to go beyond just “good.” You want your clients walking out saying, “That was the best tan I’ve ever had.”

Add-on services help you get there — by making your tans last longer, feel better, and look next-level.

Let your business shine, boss lady. Don’t just be another spray tan tech — be the one everyone talks about.

Darlene Clattenburg | Liquid Sunshine Spray Tan | July 12, 2025

Saturday, July 5, 2025

Caring for Aging Parents: The Harsh Truth

Caring for Aging Parents: The Harsh Reality

When Taking Care of Aging Parents Turns

into a Battle with Your Siblings

Author | Darlene Clattenburg | July 5, 2025.Caring for aging parents is one of the most emotional, exhausting, and rewarding acts of love. It’s a

chapter of life that forces you to step up, grow up, and sometimes even give up parts of your own

life to ensure the people who raised you are cared for with dignity. But what happens when your

siblings—the people who should be walking alongside you—are the ones holding you back?

The Weight of Responsibility:

When Mom or Dad’s health starts to decline, no handbook tells you who should do what. Some siblings

step up without hesitation, while others suddenly have excuses, disappear, or make things harder by

questioning every decision you make. If you’re the one carrying the load, you know this

truth: caregiving can make family dynamics raw and ugly.

There’s often that one sibling (or two) who turns into the “backseat driver” of caregiving—quick to

criticize, but never quick to help. And while you’re juggling doctor appointments, finances,

and sleepless nights, they’re busy pointing out what you “should” or “shouldn’t” be doing.

Sound familiar?

Why Do Siblings Hold You Back?

It’s rarely about you. More often, it’s about:

Denial: They can’t face that Mom or Dad is declining, so they avoid responsibility.
Guilt: They feel bad for not stepping up, so they lash out at the one who is.
Control: Sometimes, they just want to have the final say without doing the actual work.
Money: Let’s be real—finances can rip families apart faster than anything else.

Setting Boundaries Without Losing Your Mind:

You can’t change your siblings, but you can control how you respond. Start by being crystal clear:

Document everything – doctor notes, financial records, care plans.
It’s harder for siblings to argue with facts.
Say no – No, you’re not available to solve every minor crisis. No, you won’t tolerate criticism.
Share tasks or costs – If they won’t show up physically, they can contribute financially.

It’s okay to say: “If you’re not going to help, I need you to stop making this harder.”

When to Let Go:

Sometimes, no matter how much you wish your siblings would step up, they won’t. And as hard as it is,

you need to stop waiting for them. The reality is this: You can’t save your parents and your siblings’

relationships at the same time.

Focus on your parents and your well-being. You’re doing the work out of love, and when this chapter

of life closes, you’ll know you did everything you could. Your siblings will have to live with the

consequences of their choices.

Your Heart Deserves Care Too:

Caring for your parents can be draining, but don’t forget to take care of yourself. Find support—

whether that’s friends, therapy, or a caregiver support group. Vent. Cry. Laugh. Take breaks. You’re not

superhuman, even if it feels like you’re carrying the weight of the world.

Closing Thought:

If your siblings are holding you back, remember this: You’re the one doing the right thing.One day, when you look back, you’ll be proud that you showed up for your parents,when it mattered most.

Helpful Resources When Your Parent Isn’t Coping Well

When you notice signs that your aging parent isn’t managing well, don’t ignore it. Sometimes what

looks like “slowing down” could be a medical issue. Here are some key steps and resources to help

you take action with clarity and care:

🩺 Start with Their Doctor

Subtle changes in memory, behaviour, or daily routines might be related to medication side effects,

underlying health conditions, or even infections. Always start with a medical checkup to rule out or

address treatable issues.

💊 Simplify Medication Management

Ask the pharmacy to package medications in blister packs—these are much easier than juggling multiple pill bottles. You can also set alarms or use medication reminder apps to help your parents stay on track.

🚨 In Emergencies, Act Fast

If something feels off—dizziness, confusion, severe pain, or sudden changes—don’t hesitate.

Call 911 or take them to the emergency room. The healthcare team can provide immediate care

and a full assessment.

🏠 Safety at Home is Non-Negotiable

If your parent lives with you, install door alarms or doorbell cameras so you're alerted if they leave the house unexpectedly—especially important with memory loss or

confusion. Indoor cameras in common areas can also help monitor their safety

(and your peace of mind).

💵 Tap Into Government Support

Look into local and provincial programs that offer financial help for caregivers. Ontario, for example, has tax credits and caregiver allowances depending on the situation. Don't

leave money on the table—these programs are often underutilized.

👩‍⚕️ Hire Help When You Can

Bringing in support doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re smart. Consider respite care, PSWs, for hygiene help. Even a few hours a week can give both you and your parent a break.

🧠 Talk to Someone Who's Been There

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is speak to someone who’s walked this path. You don’t have to

do this alone—and shouldn’t.

Darlene Clattenburg

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