Everything You Need to Know About Spray Tans and Self-Tanners

The Rising Popularity of the Spray Tan

With summer just around the corner, many people are looking for ways to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. This has led to the immense popularity of spray tanning as a safe alternative to traditional tanning. Spray tanning offers a temporary bronze color while avoiding the negative effects of UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. According to industry statistics, over 20,000 spray tan salons have popped up across the United States and Canada to meet the growing demand. Additionally, spray tan services are increasingly being offered at beauty salons, gyms, and even in mobile spray tanning vans that come directly to your home or event. The spray tan business is now a multi-billion dollar industry and shows no signs of slowing down.

What Exactly is a Spray Tan?

A spray tan is applied by a technician using a special airbrush tanning machine and tent. The solution used is called DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which is derived from natural sugar sources. When DHA is sprayed onto the skin, it causes a chemical reaction with the amino acids on the outer layer of the skin. This reaction produces a brownish color change, similar to what occurs when the skin tans from UV exposure. However, unlike UV tanning, the color change from DHA is only temporary and fades after about a week as the solution naturally exfoliates off the skin. The color you achieve depends on your skin tone, with fairer skin getting lighter bronze results and darker skin achieving richer, deeper color.

The Spray Tanning Process

When you go for a professional spray tan, the technician will guide you through the process. First, you will undress down to your undergarments or remove clothing entirely. The technician will have you stand in a pop-up spray tent or booth. They will then spray your entire body in sections using the tanning solution from an airbrush. The solution feels cool and slightly wet when applied. You'll have to stand in specific poses, lift arms over the head, and turn around to allow for full coverage. It usually takes about 10 minutes to complete the application. Afterward, you leave the solution on for at least 8 hours before showering it off. Be sure to wear loose dark clothing right after your appointment to avoid discoloration from solution transfer. Results typically last 5-10 days before fading.

Are Spray Tans Safe?

The safety of DHA has been extensively studied in clinical trials. The main conclusions have found that spray tans are safe when used appropriately and as directed:

• DHA is considered a simple carbohydrate sugar substance comparable to the glucose and fructose found in fruits and vegetables.
• The FDA has approved DHA for external application to the skin and considers it safe when used under typical conditions.
• A review of medical literature found little risk of toxicity or long-term health effects with topical use.
• DHA does not penetrate past the outermost layer of skin, so there is no danger of it entering the bloodstream.
• No strong evidence suggests DHA is carcinogenic or mutagenic.
• The most common side effect is temporary skin irritation in a small number of users.

There are some standard precautions individuals should take when spray tanning:

• Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and nose by covering with barrier cream or nose filters.
• Inhalation should be minimized by proper use of a respirator mask.
• Damaged or broken skin should be protected to reduce irritation.
• Follow all post-tan guidelines to shower after the appropriate amount of time.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should check with their doctor first.

The Risks of Inhalation

One area of caution with spray tans is the risk of inhalation or breathing in the mist. DHA is not considered hazardous if ingested or inhaled according to toxicity studies. However, some people have reported respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath after receiving spray tans. This can happen if proper protective equipment like masks and nose filters are not worn. Salon clients and technicians have filed complaints of reactions like asthma attacks following appointments where proper ventilation and masks were not used. To be on the safe side, spray tanning should always be performed in ventilated rooms and never without masks.

All About Self-Tanners

Self-tanning lotions and mousses have also exploded in popularity as an alternative to UV tanning. These over-the-counter products allow you to achieve tanned looking skin in the comfort of your own home. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about self-tanning products:

Active Ingredients

The active ingredient found in nearly all self-tanners is DHA, the same substance used in spray tanning. The concentration of DHA varies between different products, with typical levels between 3-15%. Higher concentrations tend to lead to darker color results. Brands also use additional ingredients like plant oils, antioxidants, and emollients to offer added skin moisturizing and nourishing benefits.

Forms and Types

Self-tanners come in a variety of product forms:

• Lotions: These tend to provide the most even, natural looking glow. They are easy to apply but require time to fully absorb into skin.
• Gels: These offer quick-drying convenience and fast color development. They can sometimes cause streaking if not applied carefully.
• Mousses: Light, fast-drying foams that provide easy spreading. But they can transfer and stain clothes if not fully dried.
• Wipes: Individual tanning wipes that are super simple to use. But they can lead to an uneven, blotchy appearance.
• Mists: Airbrush self-tanners that mimic spray tans. Require some skill to apply evenly.

Application Tips

To get your best glow with self-tanners, follow these application tips:

• Exfoliate first to remove dead skin cells for smooth, even absorption.
• Use a body buffer glove for applying to get into small creases and texture.
• Rub in thoroughly until product fully dries to prevent transferring.
• Pay attention to often missed spots like hands, wrists, and feet.
• Moisturize dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles to avoid too much color depositing.
• Rinse palms after applying to avoid orange discolored hands.

How Long Do Self-Tanners Last?

Depending on your skin type, self-tanners typically last between 4-7 days before noticeably fading. Exfoliation and bathing will speed up the fading process. Dry, oily, or thick-skinned types may hold onto the color a few days longer than sensitive, combination, or thin-skinned skin. Reapplying every few days will keep your tan looking fresh.

Should You Tan or Self-Tan?

With all the bronzing options out there, how do you decide between tanning or self-tanning? Here are some key factors to consider:

Safety Profile

Excess UV exposure from sunbathing or tanning beds carries proven skin cancer risks and photo-aging effects. Self-tanning and spray tanning options utilize DHA, which clinical studies have established as safe for topical use. For those concerned about health safety, faux tanning is the better choice.

Realism of Color Result

If you are seeking the most believable-looking golden tan with natural variation and dimensional tone, laying out in the real sun often can't be replicated. However, modern spray tanning and self-tanning lotions have vastly improved, offering the most realistic sun-kissed effects yet when applied properly.

Convenience and Hassle

Spending long hours sunbathing or weekly tanning bed sessions takes a lot more time and hassle compared to a quick 10-minute mist tan or simple self-tan application at home. For those seeking maximum convenience, self-tanning products are hard to beat.

Cost Comparison

Weekly tanning salon memberships that allow unlimited use typically cost $50 or more per month. Individual spray tan sessions can run $25 and up. A bottle of self-tanner costs around $10-$20 and provides multiple applications. The price difference can add up fast.

Special Event Usages

For occasions like weddings, vacations, or photoshoots where you want a temporary boost in tan, self-tanners and spray solutions are the only practical choice for achieving a fast, temporary bronzed glow.

Which Is Healthier: Spray vs. Self-Tanning?

Both self-tanners and professional spray tans carry minimal health risks when used as directed. However, there are some considerations for determining which faux tanning method may fit your needs and preferences best:

Ingredient Differences

Self-tanning lotions contain additional ingredients like fragrances and preservatives that some people wish to avoid. Spray solutions are typically purer formulas consisting mainly of DHA with fewer additives.

Inhalation Concerns

As previously mentioned, there have been some reports of lung-related issues from inhaling spray tanning mist. No inhalation worries exist when applying self-tanner lotions at home.

Salon Machine Maintenance

If spray tanning salons fail to properly clean equipment, bacterial cross-contamination can occur. You avoid any risk of unhygienic machines when self-tanning.

Application Control

A spray tan technician guides the entire tanning process, leaving you less control. Self-tanning allows you to determine your preferred color depth and application technique.

Potential Mess and Commitment

Self-tanners require time and care for application but can stain fabric and skin if dripped or smeared. Spray solutions dry faster and only temporarily until you can rinse. But you must commit to the bronzed look for the duration it lasts.

For most health-conscious consumers reading ingredient labels and avoiding inhalation, self-tanning products seem to offer greater control and safety overall. However, professional spray tans provide a fast, fool-proof path to achieving an instant sun-kissed look when applied properly.

Maintaining a Sun-Kissed Glow Year-Round

While spray tans and self-tanners provide temporary color, there are additional ways to keep your skin looking naturally radiant when you arent actively bronzed:

• Exfoliate regularly using scrubs, dry brushes, or chemical exfoliants to reveal fresher, younger-looking skin.
• Apply hydrating, nutrient-rich creams and serums to nourish skin health and radiance.
• Take antioxidants like vitamin C and E to combat environmental free radical damage.
• Use facial luminizers and body highlighters to add that sought-after glow.
• Consume a diet rich in colorful fruits, veggies, and healthy fats for skin vitality.
• Drink plenty of water and get enough sleep to avoid dullness.

Achieving a year-round golden glow without sun damage is totally possible with a strategic combination of safe bronzing methods, skincare, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle practices.

The Bottom Line on Spray Tans and Self-Tanners

Thanks to extensive research and product innovations, sunless tanning and bronzing has never been easier or safer. Both professional spray tanning administered by trained technicians and self-tanning creams and lotions provide realistic-looking results without UV exposure when applied properly. While spray tans offer fool-proof application and instant gratification, self-tanners provide greater control and ingredient purity for those concerned about certain chemicals or inhalation. Ultimately, both modern spray tans and self-tanners allow you to achieve natural-looking, healthy bronzed skin safely and conveniently.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.