All about SPRAY TANS

A spray tan is a safe, sun-free way to achieve a natural-looking, streak-free tan. A fine mist of tanning solution is applied to your skin, giving you an even, glowing color.

Clients that achieving the perfect spray tan starts with the health of your skin. Proper Prepping before your appointment is KEY. Dry skin can attribute to quick fading and patchiness. Clients should review all Prep+Care page 24-48 hours before appointment.

7-12 days — based on how well you prep, products you use before and after, the actives you participate in while having a spare tan, the condition of your skin before getting sprayed, and how well you maintain your tan.

• Exfoliate your skin thoroughly before your appointment.

• Shave or wax at least 24 hours beforehand.

• Avoid applying lotions, deodorant, or oils right before your tan, as these can create a barrier.

Wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment and for a few hours afterward to avoid rubbing off the solution. Many clients prefer to go naked or in underwear to avoid tan lines. Disposable undergarments are usually available.

Male clients must wear undergarments or shorts during session, no exceptions.

2-5 hours to rinse with custom express, 2-8+ to rinse with custom flex, 10+ hours for Classic/Signature Tan.

It’s best to avoid heavy sweating for the first 6–8 hours. Light activity is okay, but intense exercise immediately after your tan can cause streaking or uneven color.

Newly applied spray tan may transfer slightly to light-colored clothing or bedding if it hasn’t fully developed. Wearing dark, loose clothing and waiting the recommended time before showering will prevent staining.

Yes! Spray tans use DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a color additive approved by the FDA for external use on the skin. It’s a safe alternative to UV tanning.

How DHA Works in Spray Tanning

• Chemical reaction: DHA, a simple sugar, reacts with amino acids in the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin).

• Color creation: This reaction—known as the Maillard reaction—forms brown-toned pigments called melanoidins, which mimic a natural tan.

• Fading: The color gradually fades as dead skin cells shed, typically within 5–7 days.

Key Points About DHA & Spray Tan Solutions

• Plant-derived: DHA is sourced from plants such as sugar cane and sugar beets.

• Safety: It is FDA-approved for external use. Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and contact with the eyes.

• Strength variations: Higher DHA percentages (10–20%) create deeper tans but may increase the chance of streaking. Lower percentages (3–5%) offer a softer, more gradual glow.

• Development time: Color begins to appear within 2–4 hours and deepens fully over 24–72 hours.

• No SPF: A DHA tan does not provide sun protection.

Important Note

All long-lasting spray tan and self-tanning products contain DHA—this is the ingredient responsible for producing a tan that lasts several days. Solutions without DHA are typically “one-day wear” formulas that provide temporary color and wash off in a single shower.

Most spray tan solutions are gentle, but if you have extremely sensitive skin, allergies, or skin conditions, let your technician know. A patch test can be done prior to a full tan.

• Moisturize daily to prevent dryness.

• Avoid long, hot showers and harsh exfoliation.

• Pat skin dry instead of rubbing after bathing.

Yes, spray tanning is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but check with your doctor if you have any concerns.

You can gently exfoliate or use a tan removal product to fade your spray tan faster if needed.