Do Spray Tans Make You Orange?
Getting an evenly bronzed glow without risking skin damage from the sun is why many people turn to spray tanning. However, one of the biggest concerns people have with spray tans is coming out with an unnatural, orange hue.
Understanding How Spray Tans Work
Spray tans work by applying a solution containing the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA) directly onto the skin using a special spray gun or booth. DHA interacts with the amino acids in the outer layer of skin to temporarily darken its appearance.
When done properly by a trained professional, the DHA develops into a natural-looking tan over the next 24-48 hours. However, in some cases, mistakes in application or choosing poor quality tanning solutions can lead to orange-toned skin.
Common Causes of Orange Tint From Spray Tans
If you walk out of the tanning salon as an oompa loompa, something definitely went wrong! Here are some of the most common reasons spray tans turn orange:
- Applying the solution unevenly, missing patches of skin
- Overapplying DHA solution in certain areas
- Choosing extremely dark bronzer levels
- Having oils, perfumes, or product residue on skin
- Using low-quality tanning solutions
Skin type can also play a role. Those with very fair skin often show more orange undertones from DHA reactions. Dry skin tends to grab more solution as well.
How to Prevent Orange Tans from Spraying
You can take steps before and after your spray tan appointment to prevent orange tone disasters:
- Exfoliate - Slough off any dead skin so the DHA reacts evenly with fresh skin cells.
- Shave - Smooth skin absorbs solutions better than hairy areas.
- Moisturize - Hydrated skin allows more even application.
- Barrier cream - Apply to dry areas like hands, knees and elbows to limit absorption.
- Loose clothing - Tight clothes can rub off solution.
- Rinse post-tan - Shower after 8-12 hours to remove bronzers sitting on skin.
Are Self-Tanning Lotions and Sprays Safer?
While professional spray tanning booths allow full body application, self-tanners you apply at home come in easy lotions, mousses, gels, towels, drops, and mist sprays. But are DIY options safer when worrying about orange hues?
Benefits of Self-Tanners
Self-tanning products provide a few advantages over professional spray tans:
- Cheaper than paying for salon visits
- Can reapply until you achieve your desired color
- Even out a spray tan that fades unevenly
- Color tends to look more natural
With self-tanners the DHA concentration is lower so there is less risk of going too dark or orange if you apply too much. They incorporate more bronzers as well for immediate color while the DHA develops gradually over the next day.
Downsides of Self-Tanning
The main downside of using self-tanners is they can be trickier to apply evenly yourself:
- Difficult to reach certain body parts
- Challenge blending color properly
- Formula can stain palms or dry out skin
There is no one supervising your application, so streakiness and missed spots are common complaints.
Are Spray Tans and Self-Tanners Safe?
The biggest health concern with any fake tanning product is the main active ingredient DHA. The FDA has approved DHA for use in cosmetics, deeming it safe for external application when following manufacturer guidelines.
However, some people have reported mild side effects from DHA exposure such as:
- Skin irritation
- Rashes
- Dryness
Those with darker complexions seem to be more prone to these reactions. People with fair skin tend to better tolerate DHA.
Sensitive areas like the face, armpits, and groin also tend to show more irritation. Care should be taken when applying solution to these locations.
Tips to Test Product Safety First
If you have never used a particular spray tan brand or self-tanner before, it's wise to test it out first rather than slathering all over straight away. Try these tips:
- Patch test - Apply a little DHA color to your arm and leave for 24 hours. If any reaction occurs, avoid that product.
- Strand test hair - Mist a bit onto a small section of hair and check the color result before spraying all over.
- Face caution - Carefully dab self-tanner on one cheek for a day or two to monitor for breakouts or redness before applying to your entire face.
Other Safety Concerns Around Spray Tans
While DHA has a fairly low risk of serious side effects, poor ventilation of spray tanning booths raises some health concerns. Inhaling airborne DHA over time may contribute to lung issues.
Some newer machine styles eliminate overspray using a contained booth and special hose attachments. This helps reduce risks to both the client’s and technician's respiratory system.
Certain medical conditions may also prohibit spray tanning. Pregnant women should check with their doctor first since DHA absorption effects on a fetus are uncertain. And those with asthma or lung problems should avoid spray tanning booths altogether.
Allergic Reaction Symptoms
On rare occasions some people have more serious allergic reactions to DHA, either immediately after exposure or over the next couple days. Seek medical help if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing
- Throat closing
- Rapid heart rate
- Dizziness, fainting
- Facial swelling
Also call your doctor for any rashes, redness, or irritation lasting longer than 3 days after tanning.
The Takeaway on Spray Tans vs Self-Tanning
Both spray tanning and self-tanners allow you to achieve bronzed skin without UV ray exposure from the sun or tanning beds. Each comes with some pros and cons.
Professional spray tans offer full body coverage in one session. But they require going into a salon and risk over-bronzing.
DIY self-tanning allows more control over color depth but can easily turn blotchy or uneven if you miss areas applying yourself.
To find your perfect sun-kissed glow without turning orange, you may need to experiment to discover whether spray tans, self-tanners, or a combination works best for your skin tone and needs.
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.
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