Spray Tan Facts
Introduction
UV rays produce harmful & long lasting damage to the human skin, & so more and more people are opting for UV free, safe sunless tanning. In around 10 minutes you can have a safe and beautiful tan, without any of the ageing effects of being in the sun and you will certainly feel great!
What ingredients are in the Tanning Solution?
The primary ingredients are plant extracts, moisturising agents and preservatives. The best known and most important one is called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA for short) and this colourless ingredient is mixed within the tanning solution.
DHA is NOT a dye! It’s a natural active, sugar based ingredient.
There is also a colour guide incorporated into the solution to help the Technician in applying the tan evenly. This will be washed off after a minimum of 8 hours when the tan is fully developed. Please note that the colour guide is only an indication of how the tan will look when fully developed. As the tan develops underneath the colour guide, it may seem as if you are going rather dark towards the end of the development time! Don’t panic and wash your tan off too early! The colour guide will rinse off to leave your skin the beautiful, natural tanned colour you wanted.
So, how does it work?
DHA reacts with your skin proteins, including amino acids, in the outermost layer of your skin. The solution does not get absorbed into the skin. The reaction of the natural ingredients with your skin results in the brown skin colour developing. The higher the concentration of DHA, the darker the finished tan. (e.g. 8% is light and 12% is dark) Your Technician will help you to select the correct concentration of DHA and choose something that is just right for your own natural skin pigments to ensure that you are not subjected to the previously common 'Tango' effect!
How long will it last?
Your tan can last between 5-7 days, depending upon how well you prepare for your tan and how well you moisturise afterwards. This can be extended further by using a ‘tan extender’ as it contains 3% DHA, which will then prolong the colour. The face and hands will often be the first to fade, as you will wash these more often - a facial mist spray will top up the face, and can also be used on hands. The duration of the tan can be extended yet further by a process called ‘double dipping’ which is where 2 applications are given over a 48 hour period. Always ensure that at least 24 hours have elapsed between the 2 sprays and that you have taken a shower to wash off the first colour guide.