Need to get that golden color and don’t have enough time to get a traditional tan?

You’re not alone.

But while most people would have had to turn to instant tan-in-a-bottle in the past, advancements in technology and convenience have since turned that process into something that’s not only more efficient but widely practiced.

Enter the Mystic Spray Tan.

“It’s really one of our most popular services. It offers a UV-free sunless color for people who don’t have the convenience of coming for months to get that perfect bronzed look, and it doesn’t take very long,” said Planet Beach Manager Sara Fagundes. “After the application it lasts anywhere from 4 to 7 days, and it’s great for people who are getting ready for that last minute getaway.”

Planet Beach is one of three tanning salons in Manteca. That’s in addition to tanning beds available at spas and health clubs.

Even with the full use of the summer sun, spray tanning is on the upswing with people taking mini-trips and vacations where less clothing is the norm and today’s busy lifestyle doesn’t afford those countless hours laying out next to the pool.

And even in a slow economy when people are tightening their belts, Fagundes said that the tanning industry might even be doing better than before. Women, she said, that used be able to lay out are now going to work and have to squeeze in time on a bed to make up for what they’re missing out on.

Getting that bronzed summer look, she said, is something that’s important to a lot of people.

“Lots of people that work during the day are missing out on those key hours when they could get a natural tan, so they feel that coming to a place like Planet Beach is the next best option,” she said. “It’s faster and it’s convenient and they don’t have to schedule their lives around it.”

Aesthetics might be what brings them through the front door, but it isn’t the only thing that keeps them coming back.

Through the exposure to UV light tanners get a healthy helping of Vitamin D, and studies have shown that it helps improve overall mood and boosts metabolism as well, and could have an impact on blood pressure, diabetes and osteoporosis.

And with the advent of a bed that utilizes a red light to replace collagen and slow the aging process, tanning is starting to catch on with some seniors as well.

“A lot of the senior ladies enjoy the spray tan as well as the red light bed,” Fagundes said. “It goes to show that there’s really a diverse age range of people who utilize these services. We’re glad to be able to offer something that so many people take advantage of.”

Planet Beach also offers a hot steam bath in addition to massage and facial services. The business is located at 1168 E. Yosemite Avenue in the Food 4 Less shopping center.