Spray Tan Reviews: Are Sunless Tanning Products Safe?

What is a Spray Tan?

A spray tan, also called sunless tanning, is an application method that gives skin a tanned or bronzed appearance without exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. A solution containing the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA) interacts with dead skin cells to temporarily darken the skins appearance.

How Spray Tans Work

During a professional or self-applied session, DHA solution is evenly misted over the body using an airbrush spray device. Over the next 4-8 hours, the DHA reacts with amino acids in dead skin cells to create a tan color change seen mostly in the epidermis layer.

Results typically last 5-10 days depending on application method, skin type, and maintenance routine before naturally exfoliating away. The skin remains unharmed during this non-permanent color change process.

Types of Spray Tans

There are a few options when it comes to spray tan reviews application methods:

• Professional spray tans at tanning salons provide the most even, customizable results but come at a higher cost per session.
• Self-applied spray kits allow you to tan at home for cheaper each time once the initial equipment fee is paid.
• Some high-end spray tanning machines like the Mystic HD provide an airbrushed appearance comparable to professional results.
• Manual spray tan tents require you to spray the solution while standing inside a pop-up booth.

Are Spray Tans Safe?

According to most skin and health experts, yes - when applied correctly, spray tans are considered safe for most people thanks to improved technology over recent years. They are significantly safer than UV tanning which exposes skin to DNA and cell damage over time, increasing illness risk.

Spray Tan Safety Tips

To maximize results and minimize irritation, experts recommend:

• Doing a patch test first, especially with new brands or if sensitive skin
• Exfoliating and moisturizing skin the day before for even application
• Wearing loose dark clothing after application to avoid transfer stains
• Using an aloe vera gel if skin feels itchy or irritated afterwards
• Avoiding spraying tans directly into eyes, nose, mouth, or genital region
• Seeing a doctor if rashes, trouble breathing, or other concerning symptoms occur

The Bottom Line on Safety

Higher safety standards today around ingredients and application methods make spray tanning an overall low-risk tanning option even with frequent use. Some people may prefer building a natural tan slowly through increased sunscreen-protected sun exposure instead.

Spray Tan Reviews

With a wide variety of spray tan reviews brands now available both in professional salons and self-applied kits, choosing the best match can feel overwhelming. Here is an overview of factors to consider with popular spray tan brand options:

Professional Spray Tan Brands

• Mystic HD - provides personalized color tones; higher upfront costs
• St. Tropez Spray Tan - bronzing mists for gradual, customizable color
• Paint it Black - odorless formula ideal for spray tan virgins
• Norvell Sunless - 360-degree aerosol spray system for full coverage

At Home Spray Tan Kits

• LOral Sublime Bronze - affordable drugstore favorite for beginners
• TanTowel Self-Tan Towelettes - mess-free, easy application wipes
• Fake Bake Flawless - nourishing ingredients complement DHA for smooth color
• Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Butter - tinted guide color and custom glow tones

Make sure to read both positive and some critical reviews before deciding which route best fits your budget, experience level, and skin needs when it comes to achieving your ideal bronzed goddess summer glow.

Other Self Tanning Options

While spray tans top the list for shortest application time and most customizable results, other popular sunless tanning products provide viable alternatives including:

Tanning Lotions and Creams

Self-tanning lotions allow you to layer on color gradually over hours or days depending on formula strength and personal preference. Many contain added skin care benefits too. Just beware streakiness if applied unevenly, especially on dry skin areas.

Tanning Wipes

Pre-soaked self-tanning towelettes provide targeted application for smaller areas like hands, feet, and face or full body bronzing depending on wipe size. Most take effect within just a few hours and conveniently fit inside most purses for on-the-go touch ups.

Tanning Drops

Add a few drops of these solutions to your normal moisturizer, serum, body lotion, or makeup products to create your own custom tinted self-tanner each day. Adjust how many drops you mix in to control your depth of color over time.

Tanning Gels, Mousses and Foams

Look for tinted versions to better guide application. Lighter gels work well for beginners compared to potentially streaky mousses and foams that require faster absorption. Some brands now combine the best of gels and mousses into lightweight foam hybrids.

Are Self Tanners Safe?

The key safety factor to look for in all self-tanning products is a reputable brand that only uses FDA-approved levels of DHA, ideally combined with nourishing ingredients to hydrate skin. Follow proper usage guidelines and test products first, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

Top Safety Tips

• Do an allergy patch test on a small area before full application.
• Carefully follow usage instructions and wait the recommended time before showering/swimming.
• Apply an oil-free sunscreen after to protect faux tan coloring from fading.
• Use aloe vera gel and exfoliate skin if you notice any itching or rashes after use.
• Avoid contact with eyes, lips and other sensitive areas.
• Store products properly away from direct heat and sunlight when not in use.

High standards today around quality ingredients and application tips make most self-tanners reasonably risk-free, especially when used sporadically. But those with very sensitive skin or other health conditions should still check with their doctor first before regular use just to be safe.

The Takeaway

Both professional spray tan reviews and respected consumer brands provide safer sunless tanning results compared to UV rays whether applied via expert airbrushing, self-spray kits, lotions, wipes, or drops. Carefully follow usage and storage instructions based on skin type to minimize irritation risk.

Achieving a healthy glow no longer requires compromising your health through dangerous tanning bed or prolonged sun overexposure. But avoiding sun damage year-round through UV protection clothes, hats and proper SPF levels remains vital as well while enjoying your fresh faux bronzed skin.

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.