How does sunless tanning work?
A sunless tan does not involve the production of melanin like a natural tan. Instead, a self tanner lotion or spray contains DHA (Dihydroxyacetone), a sugar molecule that creates a tanned appearance in the upper layer of the skin (epidermis).

This  stimulates a chain of chemical reactions that causes the cells in the upper epidermis to turn brown. This process takes about 6-8 hours, The intensity of the color depends on the level of DHA and the amount of amino acids (proteins) in the skin

How long does it last?
A sunless tan lasts about 7-10 days – the average life-span of the outer epidermis.

 

 Will the spray tan from a spray tanning application come off on my clothes?
 If you are using a spray solution with a cosmetic tint, some of the bronze color may rub off on clothing or bed sheets. This is most likely to happen when you get dressed immediately after tanning. To minimize the chance of the tint transferring to clothing, we recommend that you wear loose-fitting, darker clothes after your spray session. The cosmetic tint is water-soluble. Therefore, in most cases, the color will come out of clothing in the wash.

Why do some self tanners make me turn orange?
It can be a combination of the type of self tanner used and the level of DHA (the active self tanning ingredient). Self Tanners have come a long way since their introduction. Traditional self tanners relied solely on DHA to create a temporary 'tan.' Recently, many self tanners started including Erythrulose, a similar type ingredient that delivers a more golden color to the skin, whereas DHA tends to be more red/orange. The use of these two self tanning ingredients together and with the right balance allows for a more golden-brown hue and a more natural-looking 'tan.' In addition, Erythrulose takes longer to react than DHA, therefore allowing for longer-lasting sunless color.

 

 

Prep the skin the night before or the morning of your sunless tan.
Exfoliate the skin and create a smooth surface ideal for sunless application. Exfoliate in circular motion and do not use a moisturizer at least two hours prior to your sunless tanning application.

 

Once you exfoliate, use a water-based moisturizer to ensure that the skin is free to absorb all the tanning product.  If you use an oil-based moisturizer before self-tanning,  the oil can sit on the skin, creating a barrier that can cause self-tanners to streak!  One quick way to tell if your moisturizer is water or oil based –> look at the first ingredient listed on the label.  Chances are it’s water (Aqua) or possibly aloe vera, but steer clear if the first ingredient is an oil of any kind.  Salt, sugar, and diatomaceous earth scrubs are an excellent way to exfoliate – just make sure they are not sitting in heavy oils and do not leave a residue on the skin.  An easy way to make sure there is no residue is to wash your body after exfoliating with a body wash.

 

Before applying any self- tanner it is best to use a little body moisturizer on areas such as the hands, elbows, knees and heels. These areas tend to have lots of creases and folds and are dryer than the Sahara Desert! By doing this you allow the moisturizer to grab first not the self tanner so it looks more even and help you blend it into the areas so the tan looks more natural. There is nothing worse than dark, dark heels and knees! (We have body moisturizer in our tan room for your convenience.)

Ever notice that spots like sun-spots, melasma or old acne scars get darker and more noticeable when you’ve slathered self-tanner over them?  Immediately after your spray-tan is applied, take a dry, clean Q-Tip and gently buff the area of excess product.  This will minimize the appearance and create a more even tone. ((we have Q-tips at your disposal in our tanning room.)

For best results, wait at least six-eight hours after sunless application before you shower, moisturize, swim or exercise. 

After waiting 6-8 hours to shower following your sunless tan, you should use a moisturizer regularly to keep your skin hydrated and healthy, which will contribute to a more even, natural-looking sunless tan.

It is important to keep skin moisturized after sunless tanning as dry, flaky skin will slough off faster and color will fade sooner. Sunless tan-extending products with a light self-tanning bronzer, help hydrate skin and maintain even, natural-looking color longer by providing subtle bronzers. (Remember to wear sunscreen while outdoors.)