Spray-on Tan
How does it work?
The active ingredient is dihydroxyacetone (DHA) causes a chemical reaction with the amino acids on the outer most layer of the skin. This reaction causes the colour of the skin to change, producing a beautiful natural tan. DHA starts to react with the skin within 2 hours of the tan application and continues to do so for a total of 12 hours after which time you can wash.
How long does a Spray Tan last?
Depending on a person's activities and skin type, the tan lasts approximately 5-10 days. With follow up applications, a person can maintain the tan indefinitely.
How do I prepare for a Spray Tan session?
For the maximum result, before your session, shower and exfoliate the skin. Make sure your skin is free of perfumes, lotions, oils, deodorants, gels or any product on the skin that would create a barrier. Also, remove all jewellery (and don't put it back on until a few hours after your tan)!
What should I wear?
Attire for women is whatever you are comfortable with. Many things can be done to minimise tan lines. The key is your comfort level. Attire for men is boxers, swim trunks or shorts. Your tanning specialist will use the utmost discretion. Loose fitting clothing should be worn after a spray tan. DHA can react with wool, nylon, and silk. These fabrics should not be worn during or immediately following your tanning session.
How long should I wait after a tanning session before showering?
To give the DHA enough time to fully set, it is recommended waiting a minimum of 7 hours after tanning. Showering sooner may diminish the intensity of the tan.
Can a Spray Tan be removed?
The colour produced by a tan does not wash off; it simply fades as the upper layers of the epidermis wear away. You can try to speed the exfoliation process by gently scrubbing the skin with a washcloth or loofah sponge. DO NOT OVER SCRUB! It may take a week or more for the "tanned" skin to disappear.
Is a Spray Tan safe?
YES! According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the most effective products available are sunless or self-tanning products that contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA) as the active ingredient. DHA has been used in cosmetic preparations for almost 30 years and was listed with the FDA in 1973. It is declared safe and suitable for use in cosmetics and drugs used to colour the skin. DHA is derived from glycerin (vegetable origin), which is a commonly used cosmetic and food ingredient. DHA is not absorbed into the body and poses no possibility of toxicity.
What happens if the spray mist gets in my eyes?
Tanning mist have been used in over three million tanning sessions with no adverse reactions documented.
What happens if I inhale any of the tan mist?
While no one should purposely inhale or ingest the tan mist, it is known that DHA (the active tanning ingredient) is a non-hazardous compound and causes no adverse reaction in moderate quantities when applied topically or even ingested. DHA has been used as a diet supplement in sports nutrition and is non-carcinogenic. Testing has further shown that DHA is less toxic than aspirin, caffeine and even common table salt.
Will swimming affect my Spray Tan?
Swimming in chlorinated water or salt water can fade the results, cause possible streaking and will diminish the length of your tan.
Should I shave before or after the Spray Tan application?
Shaving is a form of exfoliation so you should shave about 8 hours before the application. Shaving after will take off some of your tan, so shave before. After your application, be sure to use a new razor as old dull blades can mar your results.
Does a Spray Tan provide SPF protection?
No! Spray Tans do not provide any sunscreen protection, so you should apply sunscreen accordingly. Your skin will appear tanned, even though it's not. This is an artificial tan. There is no Sun Protection Factor (SPF) so your skin is still exposed and vulnerable to the sun. If you choose to expose your skin to UV rays either from the sun or a tanning bed (which I strongly discourage), it is important to use a lotion with a high SPF to protect you from the sun's harmful rays. (Please click here to read the Cancer Council's position statement on artificial UV tanning in solariums).
What is the advantage of a Spray Tan over UV tanning?
Airbrush tanning is an alternative form of tanning. People with sensitive skin or people who have a hard time tanning, be it natural or in tanning beds will find this form of tanning very comforting. One application with airbrush tanning will be equivalent to approximately 6 tanning bed sessions, therefore making it very cost effective as well a being safer. Airbrush tanning also spares the skin of excessive wear and tear and free from potential burns caused by the sun or tanning beds.