How do sunless tanning solution work?

The active ingredient in almost all modern sunless tanning products is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). A colorless sugar, DHA interacts with the proteins and amino acids in the outer layer of your skin to produce a golden brown color. This is called the “Maillard Reaction”.

Gone are the orange tones associated with the products of old. In addition to DHA, most solutions contain an immediate bronzer. The formulation of the bronzer determines the initial color of your skin after application. This is where most products miss the mark. If you don’t like the color of your skin after you have applied the product, it is because the bronze has poor coloration. The initial color will only last until you take your first shower after it is initially applied. The color that remains is produced by the DHA reacting with your skin. DHA will always produce the same results based on concentration and application levels.

Is airbrush tanning safe?

Yes. Dihydroxyacetone in the tanning solution has been FDA approved for use in the personal care industry for over twenty years. No adverse effects have been reported other than minor skin irritations on allergic people. Allergic reactions are extremely rare and can usually be eliminated by showering. Although no problems have been reported, we do not recommend for use by pregnant women.

How long does airbrush tanning last?

Your tan will last approximately 3 – 7 days depending upon your ability to follow a proper daily moisturizing regimen and your lifestyle. An airbrush tan fades just like a tan from the sun. As you slough off dead skin cells, with it goes your tan. Proper skin hydration is the key to maximum longevity.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for my tanning session?

Yes. Prior to being tanned you should exfoliate by having a body scrub. Removing any dead cells and body oils will help the solution penetrate your skin and give you the best results. Do not use moisturizers prior to being tanned as they can clog pores and prohibit proper penetration. Makeup and deodorants can also prohibit absorption and should also be removed prior to tanning.

If you choose to be tanned in a bathing suit, we suggest you buy one especially for use while tanning or use an old one as some of the solution will inevitably get on your suit. We recommend the use of loose fitting dark clothing and sandals after your tanning session. Natural fibers like 100% cotton sweats or baggies are best. Any color that rubs off can usually be washed out during a normal wash cycle. Nylon, wool, Lycra and Spandex do have the potential to stain.

Will I have tan lines?

You will have tan lines if you choose to be tanned wearing a bathing suit or undergarments. Some patients prefer to be tanned in the nude to avoid tan lines. This is a personal preference and we leave it up to the patient.

Why is an airbrush application better than those misting booths or applying by hand?

The airbrush is a precision instrument that allows for a smooth, flawless application. Special care can be taken to avoid over application on problem areas such as knees, elbows, hair, blemishes and other skin afflictions that tend to absorb more color.

Mist-on booths require a series of body contortions within the booth to cover each area. A shower cap must be worn to protect the hair from discoloration. A natural look will take the tan up to the hairline. This can’t be achieved in a booth without exposing it to the mist. Covering the hairline completely results in unsightly tan lines on the forehead and neck.

Hand application often results in streaky coloration and stained hands due to the inability to properly apply the product by yourself. In addition you are rubbing the product in as opposed to having it gently settle on the skin.

The airbrush with its inherent precision and flexibility is by far the application method of choice.

GUIDELINES

WHAT TO BRING
• Bring a bathing suit or underwear if you wish to create a tan line
• Bring extra dark and loose clothes to avoid initial staining
• Bring a pair of slippers or sandals for your feet

PREPARATION
• Bathe, exfoliate, and pat your skin dry before you start the tanning process
• Wear a shower cap
• Put lip balm on your lips
• Put micro pore tape or petroleum jelly on your fingernails and toenails to prevent cuticles from darkening

AFTER
• Do not wash or scrub for at least 10 hours after application of tanning solution
• Remove micro pore tape or petroleum jelly on your fingernails and toenails
• When you shower use soap where you need it, and avoid scrubbing and razor
• Pat dry the excess solution with tissue paper. DO NOT RUB.
• Should any streaking occur after you bathe simple pat dry the affected area to even out the color
• Avoid tubs and swimming pools because chlorine speeds up fading and flaking
• Moisturize daily
• Stains on garments resulting from tanning should be soaked in warm water then washed immediately

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