01. What is a spray tan?
With a spray tan, a light mist is sprayed onto the body, this mist has an ingredient in it called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that interacts with the skin’s chemistry to turn it tan or bronze.
02. What is DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) and what does it do?
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), also known as glycerone, is the active ingredient in the spray tan and self tanning products. It is often derived from plant sources such as sugar beets and sugar cane, and by the fermentation of glycerin. DHA does not make your skin cells darker in pigmentation, but rather reacts with the proteins and amino acids found in the top layer of your skin to create a darkening effect or ‘sunless tan’.
03. How does spray tan work?
The principle tanning agent used in all spray tan formulas is DHA. This ingredient does not produce a "real tan" by increasing the skin's melanin levels, rather it creates a tanned appearance by developing a brown color on the surface of the skin.
The action of DHA is limited to the upper layer of the skin and involves a reaction between DHA and skin proteins and oxygen that produces brown compounds. This process is similar to what occurs when you slice open an apple and the surface of the apple browns when it's exposed to the oxygen in the air.
The development of color takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours and the intensity of color is dependent upon the DHA concentration in the product as well as each tanner's individual skin characteristics. The color developed by the DHA usually lasts 5 to 7 days and begins to fade as the top layer of the skin naturally exfoliates.
04. Is spray tan safe?
Yes. The solution has the active ingredient DHA which is approved for cosmetic use. It is considered non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. When applied to the skin, it penetrates only the top layer of skin.
5. What is a cosmetic bronzer?
The component of a spray product that gives a tanner immediate color for that "just off the beach" look.
6. What is the difference between "Bronzer" and "Clear/No bronzer" sprays?
Bronzer: Temporary cosmetic bronzers provide an immediate tan color while you’re DHA spray tan is developing. Your actual spray tan will darken over the next 24 hours. You will see the temporary cosmetic color washing off your body during the first shower. This is completely normal. Your actual developed spray tan will not wash away though it may appear slightly lighter in color after cosmetic bronzers are removed from the skin.
Special note: Temporary cosmetic bronzers may rub off on light-colored clothing and furnishings, but typically wash out of most items.
Clear/No Bronzer: Though you will not see any immediate cosmetic color, your spray tan will begin to darken within 1 – 2 hours and will continue to do so up to 24 hours.
07. Should I choose level 1, 2, 3, or 4 for my spray tan?
You should choose a level based on how dark you would like your spray tan be:
Level 1: Natural tan designed for fair skin tones.
Level 2: Brown tan designed for fair to medium skin tones.
Level 3: Dark brown tan designed for medium to dark skin tones.
Level 4: Extremely dark tan for dark skin tones.
The solution works with your skins natural chemistry, by molding to its tone; therefore, no two people will have the exact same result.
08. What kind of effect and deep tan can I get from a spray tan session?
Many people think that the darker the tan the better. However, if the color is too dark for your natural skin tone the fading will appear more prominent resulting in a patchy look. Our goal is to provide a natural looking tan that is specific your skin tone.
09. Will I turn orange?
No, you will not turn orange. Orange or rainbow tans happen because too high of DHA product is used on your skin type or from other factors. Our products contain an olive color base that negates any orange discoloration to the skin. Though rare, there are conditions that can affect the outcome of your spray tan such as medications, hormonal cycles, or tan preparation.
High pH levels in the skin can sometimes give individuals an undesirable, ‘fake’ non-natural looking spray tan color. Spray tan application on skin that is out of balance due to high pH levels sometimes results in what many people refer to as an ‘orange’ coloring. To prevent this from happening, there are a few things you can do: Do not use bar soaps before your spray tan session. A properly pH balanced skin cleanser will not elevate pH levels on the skin, and result in more ‘golden brown’ spray tanning results.
In general, the darker your natural skin tone, the higher concentration of DHA you can apply to the skin and still maintain ‘natural’ color. Generally, those with fair/light skin tones should opt for less DHA to the skin to ensure natural looking results.
10. Is your solution organic?
Our solution is Gluten Free, Paraben Free and 100% Vegan.
11. How should I prepare for my session?
Preparation and maintenance of your spray tan is the KEY to a spray tan success. Make sure to read our spray tan preparation and maintenance guide prior to your sunless application.
Follow these important steps to ensure maximum sunless results:
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Exfoliate your skin prior to your spray tan session.
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Any waxing or shaving should be performed 24 hours in advance.
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Remove any ‘barriers’ that may prevent the spray tan from absorbing into the skin evenly. These include, but are not limited to: make-up, deodorant, perfume, oils, moisturizers, residue from hair conditioners.
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Optimize your skin surface pH levels prior to application by not using bar soaps prior to your session.
12. Will the spray tan stain my hair?
Hair caps may be worn to protect blonde, platinum or grey hair, but is not necessary for darker hair, as any small amounts that get in the hair will wash out.
Note: When wearing a hair cap, make sure to pull the cap back to expose the edge of hairline and tuck the cap behind the ears. Otherwise you will create a hard line around the forehead and temples.
13. Do you have any advice during my spray tan?
Make sure to coat your cuticles, bottoms of your feet, and palms of your hands well with barrier cream to prevent color from developing on areas that typically do not get tan. Also carefully remove the cream once you finish your spray tan so as not to smear the fresh spray tan on the rest of your body.
Make sure to listen to the prompts, you will be directed on how to turn while in the booth, it is very easy.
14. How long does it take to get a spray tan?
The process of actually getting your spray tan from the time you step into the automated spray tanning booth until you step out only takes a few minutes.
15. Should I be concerned with inhaling spray tan over-spray and can I prevent inhalation?
The automated spray tanning booth is designed to work with gravity, pulling over spray downward, limiting over-exposure to inhalation of sprayed solutions.
Note: Nose filters will be provided.
16. Will the spray tan come off on my clothes and footwear?
To minimize the chance of the tint transferring to clothing, we recommend that you wear loose fitting, darker clothes after your spray tan session. Try to refrain from physical exertion that could result in you sweating until you shower and wash off the cosmetic bronzer. The cosmetic tint is water-soluble. Therefore, in most cases, the color will come out of clothing in the wash.
For footwear, we recommend wearing flip flops.
17. If I have allergies or skin sensitivities can I use spray tanning?
While spray tanning generally is safe, it is recommended that you speak to a healthcare professional about your specific allergies and skin sensitivities before using any products.
18. How long does a spray tan take to dry?
The drying system in the booth leaves you almost instantly dry so you don't have to wait to dry like older systems.
19. Do I need to towel off or rub the tanning solution into my skin after the session?
No. The spray tan solution will not drip or run on the body. There is virtually no stickiness or dry time once your session has completed.
20. How should I care for my tan after my session?
Wear dark, loose fitting clothing until your first shower when you wash the cosmetic bronzer off your skin. Avoid any water related activities such as: sweating, working out, showering, swimming, saunas, rain, massages, pedicures and manicures.
Long soaks in any water can prematurely fade your tan. Keep skin thoroughly moisturized after your first shower, and throughout the life of your tan. Using a tan extending lotion, will keep your spray tan color looking fresh and vibrant.
21. How long should I wait to shower?
For your first shower, we recommend a warm water (not hot) rinse only without any soap, shower gel, or shampoo. You may shower as soon as 4 hours; however, for best results we recommend waiting 8 to 24 hours. Showering prematurely may result in a lighter tan. The active spray tan ingredient, DHA continues to work with your skin for up to 24 hours. Waiting longer will give you a deeper, longer lasting sunless tan. Remember to pat your skin dry after showering, and do not rub off with a towel.
22. Can I work out after my spray tan session?
We recommend not to get wet or sweat for at least 8 to 24 hours. It is OK to work out after your first shower but it can affect how long the tan lasts and how it fades. Take care when exercising as friction and excess sweat may cause your tan to fade prematurely or unevenly.
23. How long after spray tanning should I wait to enjoy a pool/spa?
We recommend avoiding these situations for the first 48 hours following your spray tan. Chlorinated pools & spas can increase the rate in which the skin exfoliates causing the tan to wear and fade.
24. How should I maintain my tan?
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Apply moisturizer morning and evening after your post-tan shower.
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Avoid moisturizers with harsh mineral oils, alcohols, and sulfates.
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Avoid long hot showers and baths, and scrubbing the skin excessively.
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Chlorine in swimming pools and hot tubs can remove or shorten the longevity of your tan.
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Take care when exercising as friction and excess sweat may cause your tan to fade prematurely or unevenly.
25. Why is keeping skin moisturized essential to maintain great spray tan results?
It is important to keep skin moisturized after a spray tan as dry, flaky skin will exfoliate off faster and color will fade sooner. You basically want to slow down your body's natural exfoliation process.
26. How long does the color last?
With little to no maintenance, the color from your tan will 5-7 days. At that point, it begins fading naturally. This happens as skin continually regrows itself and the top layer of skin sheds off and is replaced with a new layer of skin.
27. How often can I get a spray tan?
You can get a spray tan once a week to maintain a year-round glow. It is best to exfoliate any remaining color from previous sessions before coming in for a fresh application.
28. Should I allow the skin to rest between spray sessions?
It is recommended that individuals not tan more than 3 times in a 2-week period, to avoid build-up of tanning solution that will contribute to uneven wear-off. This allows a complete cycle of natural exfoliation and eliminates patchiness or uneven areas of wear, such as around the waist, inside the arms where the elbow bends, underarms, and backs of knees. These are natural areas of the body where friction from clothing and daily activities may cause premature exfoliation. In addition, spraying too frequently may also cause the skin to exfoliate more rapidly (decreasing the longevity of your spray tan), as over-application can alter the skin’s pH levels, causing it to shed more frequently.
29. How do I remove my spray tan?
Your tan will fade but will not wash off. You can speed the exfoliation process by using a quality scrub glove or washcloth. Do not over scrub because it will cause dry spots and will make your tan results uneven. Take a 40-minute bathtub to help lighten color. Spray tan on skin that is well moisturized and exfoliated will fade more evenly and provide an even palette for tanning.
30. Will a spray tan provide me with sun protection?
No. DHA does not build melanin in the skin as a sun tan does (UV light). DHA works with the amino acids and body oils found in the outer layer of the skin to turn them tan.
31. How old do I have to be to spray tan?
You must be eighteen (18) years of age or older to spray tan.
32. When can I get a laser hair removal session?
No spray tan for 2 weeks prior to a laser hair removal session. After a laser treatment, let your skin heal 7 to 10 days and then spray tan.
33. When can I get my nails done?
We recommend you get your nails done at least 2 hours before your spray tan session. Barrier cream will be applied to protect your nails from the solution and you will be able clean them after your session. Also, make sure to remove any remaining lotion from your skin before the session.
You can get a manicure/pedicure afterwards but we recommend you do it after your first shower and we suggest you skip the exfoliation. Also, acetone will fade your sunless tan so make sure they are careful when removing polish.
34. Will a spray tan affect tattoo?
The spray tan solution may darken the color of the tattoo during the life of the spray tan. In order to avoid this, barrier cream may be used to cover the tattoo before the spray tan session.
Spray tan should not be applied to any tattoo until after 4 weeks of healing. Skin surface must be healed before application of any spray tan solution.
35. Can pregnant women be safely sprayed?
You should also always consult your doctor before getting a spray tan while pregnant.
Changes in hormone levels of expecting mothers can also lead to increased sensitivity of the skin, which pregnant clients should be aware of.
36. What is the difference between a spray tan and self-tan?
Spray tan relies on equipment (booth or handheld unit) and self-tan involves products you can apply on your own at home.
37. Can I wear make up to spray tan?
Wearing make-up will prevent the proper absorption of spray tan solution on the skin causing an uneven tan.
38. Can I wear make-up after spray tan?
Wait 6 to 8 hours after spray tan before applying foundation. The moisture in the make-up can cause splotching, ruining the tan or creating a noticeably uneven effect.
39. Can I get a spray tan with a sunburn or after a chemical peel?
No. Your skin is compromised after this and will peel off.
40. What do I wear to my session?
We will provide all the necessities: disposable hair net, disposable undergarment, disposable bra, disposable nose filter, disposable sticky feet, barrier cream and hair tie (if needed).
41. Will spray tan solution cause additional freckling to already freckled skin?
No. However, the spray does not cover freckles up either. What is darker will stay darker and what is lighter, stays lighter in contrast.