Airbrush Tanning 

Airbrush tanning uses a safe, FDA approved mixture that contains an active ingredient known as dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colorless sugar that darkens the surface layer of the skin. DHA works by interacting with the dead surface cells found in the epidermis, or the outermost layer of the skin, producing a color change that appears very natural and complimentary to your skin tone.   As the dead skin cells are naturally shed through the process of exfoliation, the color gradually fades – typically within five to seven days of the initial application.

How safe is Airbrush Tanning?

The active ingredient, DHA is derived from raw sugar and has been FDA approved for cosmetic use for decades. DHA has been used safely over the years in sunless tanning products such as creams, lotions, and most recently sprays.

How do I prepare for my Airbrush Tanning Session?

Before each tanning session, skin should be cleaned and thoroughly, but gently, and exfoliated. You should fully exfoliate, using overlapping circular motions as you're doing it so you get complete coverage. Pay special attention to thick or dry areas of your skin such as your feet, knees, elbows etc. You can do this using a loofah, a body brush, exfoliation gloves or even a good quality scrub. Removal of dead cells and surface oils allows the sunless tanner to penetrate evenly and smoothly into your skin, giving you the best, longest lasting results that will eventually fade evenly just like a real tan!

Do not use any moisturizers prior to tanning, except maybe on the dry skin areas we just mentioned. Moisturizers, oils, and lotions can all prevent proper DHA penetration. This can result in a tan that is lighter, streaky, blotchy, faster fading that simply doesn't look natural. Any products on your skin's surface can deter absorption including makeup, deodorants, heavy moisturizing soaps, bar soap film, shaving products etc. All of these should be completely washed off of your skin before "tanning". You will also want to remove contact lens, and jewelry right before you begin your airbrush tanning session.

What to wear to your airbrush tanning session?

Bring dark, loose fitting clothes to put on after the session. Do not wear something white, silk, tight or anything with tight fitting elastic.

Most importantly do NOT shower for 4 to 6 hours after your airbrush tanning session to allow time for the actual "tanning" process to complete.

After your spray tanning session.

The best way to proceed at this point is with caution. Even though your skin may feel dry and normal, please remember that there is a chemical reaction occurring. Over the next eight hours, you should avoid water, lotions, etc. at all costs.

Water or moisture related products such as lotions, oils, perfumes or hairspray can and will affect your tan. DO NOT use any cosmetic foundations or concealers. Your tan shouldn't ruin everything around you! Take care in sitting on furniture that is lighter in color than your tan. This same approach should be used in all types of upholstery, including fabric and leather car seats, carpet and all types of clothing. If you are tanning later in the day, and are unable to shower before you go to sleep, you may see some color rub off onto your sheets and bedding. Most sheets are made of cotton, and color will wash out with normal washing and care. You do not need to use a stain remover if the fabric is made of cotton. After the 8 hours have passed it is time to take a shower. You may have noticed you have been becoming quite a bit darker. That's okay! DHA, the chemical additive that is bronzing your skin has had its curing time, and has literally changed your overall color.

The color you walked out of the salon with was created with the use of what's called a "color guide". The color guide is added to the solution that is applied to your body with to allow the technician to see exactly where the solution is being applied. As you shower, you will see quite a bit of color going down the drain. Do not panic! This color is not intended to stay on your skin, and you will be tan underneath.

We highly recommend showering and NOT submersing yourself in a hot bath. If you are just too stressed and need the bath, okay, but please limit your time in the tub to extend the life of tan. The same applies to swimming and enjoying the hot tub. While showering you can gently use a shower pouf along with a mild shower gel. When drying off from your shower or bath, please remember to "blot" yourself dry, without rubbing your skin and inadvertently rubbing your tan away. This is an easy habit to get into, and believe us; your tan will thank you by hanging around longer! Absolutely no exfoliating should be done during the time in which you wish to keep your tan.

Maintaining your tan.

Most people experience five to seven days of great color from their airbrush tanning session. Depending on your daily activities, this time frame can vary. If your shower more than once a day, have vigorous daily workouts or work outdoors, your tan will most likely not last the full seven days. Applying a good water based lotion twice daily will encourage your skin to hang around and not shed as quickly. Upon the fourth or fifth day, you may notice your tan fading; especially around the face and neck areas. Please feel free to read our reviews of tanning extenders and bronzing lotions which will help to extend your sunless tan.

Enjoy your tan!