Profile

As a ballroom-dancing enthusiast and the wife of professional dancer Alex Tchassov, Sally Blenkey-Tchassova first experimented with spray tanning while on the ballroom dancing circuit. In 2002, she developed her own scentless airbrush-tanning formula and opened her first salon in Soho. Today, the England native has five stand-alone salon locations in New York (her formula is also used at Nordstrom spas nationwide), and regularly jets to the West Coast for celeb regulars and awards-season appointments. The five spots feel feminine and cozy, with brocade curtains sectioning off areas for spraying, and warm red and gold hues throughout. After undressing in a small changing room stocked with shower caps, disposable stick-on flip flops, and paper underwear, a technician carefully sprays skin to the desired effect (healthy glow, light, medium, dark, or extra dark). The spray is cold, but the experience is undeniably more thorough than a Mystic tan machine. The ten-minute process results in sun-kissed, streak-free skin that lasts up to a week. Body contouring, airbrush makeup, eyelash extensions, and house calls are also offered. — Randi Eichenbaum