Understanding Spray Tanning and How It Works
Spray tanning, also referred to as sunless tanning, has become an extremely popular alternative to laying out in the sun or going to tanning beds to achieve darker skin tones. The active ingredient in spray tans is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colorless sugar that interacts with dead surface skin cells to temporarily darken skin.
What Happens During a Spray Tan?
Receiving a spray tan takes place at a professional tanning salon or spa. The solution is sprayed evenly across your entire body by a technician using a special airbrush spray gun. You stand in a booth wearing minimal clothing, safety goggles and a mask or nose plugs, while the tanning solution is applied. This takes about 10 minutes or less. The DHA then works over the next 4-8 hours to fully develop into a tan.
Instant vs. Developing Color
There are two types of solutions used in spray tans: instant bronzers that wash off with one shower, and DHA formulas that cause a color change in skin over several hours. Most salons use a solution that contains both instant bronzers for immediate color as well as DHA for longer lasting results that continue to darken and develop hours after application.
Are Spray Tans Considered Safe?
Yes, when applied correctly by a professional, spray tans are considered safe by health organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). DHA is approved for external application to skin in fact, its also used in many self-tanning lotions, gels and mousses as an alternative to UV tanning.
Non-Toxic Formula
The DHA used in spray tan solutions today is a non-toxic sugar derivative made from plants. It does not contain any harsh chemicals, dyes or bleach. DHA sprays do not damage skin or penetrate through the outermost layer so theres no risk of it being absorbed into the bodys bloodstream either.
Hypoallergenic Options Too
Those with especially sensitive skin may react to fragrance, essential oils or botanical extracts often added to give self-tanners a pleasant scent. However, there are hypoallergenic DHA formulas made without these that minimize risks of rashes or irritation occurring.
What Are Possible Side Effects of Spray Tans?
While considered very low-risk, some people may experience minor side effects from DHA spray tanning including:
Superficial Color Change
Because DHA only reacts with dead skin cells on the very surface of skin, any exfoliation or removal of those cells through cleansing, shaving, sweating or swimming can lighten the tan. This color loss is typically gradual and uneven which is why professionals recommend getting spray tans touched up every 5-10 days.
Temporary Skin Thickening
A known effect of excess DHA binding to surface skin cells is temporary skin thickening. This adds a layer of padding that self-exfoliates within a few days. To avoid uneven buildup and streaking, make sure not to get sprayed too frequently before exfoliating away prior layers.
Minor Eye, Nose & Inhalation Irritation
Although rare because salons provide protective gear, some people may experience stinging eyes or nose irritation if solution gets inside those sensitive areas. Try to keep eyes and nose tightly covered with goggles and plugs during the full session.
Allergic Reactions
A small percentage of people may discover they have a topical allergy to DHA or additives in the solution. Test a small patch of skin first after a 24 hour hold to check for any reaction before your whole body gets sprayed.
Inhaling the Mist
Inhaling or ingesting DHA is not considered harmful, but the airbrush solution also contains small amounts of cosmetic bronzers and chemicals that should not be breathed in. Wear the mask provided by salons at all times to avoid direct inhalation.
10 Tips for Keeping Spray Tans Safe & Long Lasting
Following professional and manufacturer guidance before and after your spray tan session ensures you achieve beautiful, long lasting glowy color without any health or aesthetic issues.
1. Exfoliate First
Gently slough away any dead skin buildup before appointments so DHA reacts evenly with fresh surface skin. Just dont over exfoliate or scrub hard enough to create micro abrasions or skin irritation.
2. Shave 12-24 Hours Before
Newly shaved skin causes excess DHA absorption leading to overly dark or orange hues. Shave the day before appointments for optimal color development.
3. Dont Apply Lotion
Body moisturizers and oils create barriers preventing solution absorption. Skip the lotion for 8-12 hours pre-tan so DHA reacts directly with skin instead.
4. Remove Makeup & Deodorant
Clean skin without any residual makeup, perfumes or deodorant allows for the most even, consistent color. The small particles in powders can also leave streaky lines when sprayed over.
5. Wear Dark, Loose Clothing
Tight clothes may rub off excess solution while you change post-session. Wear dark, loose layers you dont mind getting stained then wash items immediately after the appointment.
6. Barrier Your Nails, Palms & Cuticles
Apply petroleum jelly to nail beds and cuticles to form a barrier if you dont want tan hands and feet. Press a paper towel between palmar surfaces too to prevent dark palms.
7. Dry Off First
Refrain from rinsing off any solution for 8-12 hours after appointments so it has enough contact time to fully develop. When you do shower, avoid scrubbing hard or using hot water.
8. Moisturize Daily
Keep spray tanned skin hydrated with a daily body lotion so color stays vibrant longer before fading. Choose fragrance free and oil free options if any irritation occurs.
9. Exfoliate Gently
As your tan naturally sheds off dead skin cells each day, gently smooth away any unevenness with a soft washcloth or scrub. Dont overdo exfoliation though which rapidly removes color.
10. Avoid Chlorine & Sweating
Swimming in chlorinated pools, hot tubs and ocean water can all cause spray tan color to fade and streak prematurely. Sweating heavily during workouts has a similar effect. Shower instead of immersing whenever possible.
Other Forms of Self-Tanners
While professional DHA spray tans done in salons remain the most popular for their instant, natural looking color; self-applied mousses, gels, face drops, wipes and even oral capsules allow more convenience and accessibility.
Gradual Self-Tanning Lotions
These over the counter lotions stimulate color development similar to DHA formulas, but results appear much more gradually. They arent meant for immediate bronzing before an event but provide a nice, subtle glow when applied daily or a few times a week.
Tanning Mitts & Mousses
Self-tanners come in easy to apply mousses and gels containing DHA you spritz or smooth on then wipe over skin with an application mitt for streak-free absorption. Like spray tans, results continue to develop deeper over 8 hours so plan applications accordingly.
Tanning Wipes & Drops
Single use tanning wipes make touch ups between spray or full body applications simple with targeted color exactly where you want. Face drops with DHA provide a similar
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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