Spray Tanning FAQs

The solution used in spray tanning is called Dihydroxyacetone or DHA. DHA is a colorless sugar that interacts with the skin cells located in the stratum corneum of the epidermis (the upper and outermost layer of your skin). As the sugar interacts with the dead skin cells, a color change occurs. This change usually lasts about five to seven days from the initial application. DHA has been in use since the 60s when it was first approved for cosmetic application by the Food and Drug Administration.

During a rapid tanning session we use a rapid tanning solution which a higher concentration of DHA. This allows for the tan to develop faster. You will be able to RINSE in 3-5 hours, during the rinse you will fully remove the bronzers, and your tan will completely develop within the next 12 hours. During a regular tanning session we use a regualr solution that has a development time of 12-24 hours. During this time you shouldn't sweat, get wet, wear tight or light clothing. Until you rinse, the bronzer can transfer.

If you are attending a wedding, party, or other special event you should be spray-tanned one or two evenings before the actual event. This allows time for the tan to fully activate and settle. You also have at least two showers to remove bronzers that may be left on the skin so as not to stain your garment for the event.

It really depends on your skin type, the solution used, and the length of time between the application and the first shower. Most will last 5 to 7 days but can be extended up to 10 days if using an extender and following the proper aftercare instructions.

If you have skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis is is best to perform a patch test before deciding to be spray tanned. We can perform a patch test for you and will do so if you have specific skin conditions. If we find that you can be spray tanned, it is important to apply a lot of moisturizer as part of your aftercare regime as the solution can have a drying effect on your skin.

You can extend the life of your tan by up to a few days by using our Norvell tan extender product, and Ph balanced cleanser. These are moisturizers that help reduce the sloughing of dry and/or dead skin skin cells. If you have dry skin these products are especially recommended.

Yes. The solutions we use have a bronzing color agent in the blend so that we can see where we are spraying. This will insure even color all over your body. The agent will wash off with your first rinse however the DHA will be developing underneath the bronzer over the next 8 to10 hours. The longer you can go without showering (up to 12 hours regular) (up to 5 hours rapid) the more time your tan will have to fully develop.

During the spray tan you can wear as little as you are comfortable with. Our staff is very professional and discrete. If you wear a bathing suit it should be dark and form fitting.

After your spray tan you should wear loose, dark cotton clothing with slip on shoes so as not to leave any marks or rub the spray tan off your skin. You should also not reapply jewelry as it can scratch the tan.

ABSOLUTELY! There is no SPF protection in any of the solutions on the market today. Just because your skin looks tanned does not mean that your skin is protected from harmful UV rays. You can still get sun-burned if you do not apply any protection.