Frequently asked questions

The active ingredient is DHA (dihydroxyacetone) and is approved by the FDA for external use. It is the active ingredient in all self-tanners.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is derived from sugar beets or cane sugar and is a key active ingredient for natural self-tanners. The skin-browning effect is the result of a nontoxic chemical reaction between DHA and the amino acids which are part of the keratinous layer of the skin’s surface, much like the browning effect in food caramelization. The resulting color is called melanoidins, similar in color to the melanins our bodies produce naturally when exposed to UV rays.

DHA creates a more naturally-looking tan, and fades more evenly, than chemical tanners and is now considered the most effective sunless tanning ingredient. It is also considered the safest form of tanning over chemically-derived self-tanners and sun exposure. The tan will fade gradually over the course of 3-10 days. (Wiki)

Dark loose-fitted clothing and flip flops and have hair picked up.

During session, you may wear wear a dark colored swimsuit or undergarments, or may choose to go topless and bottomless. The tanning solution will wash off but in some cases can stain light colored garments.

No workout or tight clothes until the initial rinse off.

Plan on a 20minutes appointment. We have a brief consultation to discuss your desired shade, then I apply a prepping spray, barrier cream, then goes the spray tan application, and I finalize the session by applying a finishing powder that will set and lock the color. 

The tan should last anywhere from 4-9+ days. It will depend on hormones, skin PH and how well you prepped before and post tan care. Any or some level of activity (sports, swimming, etc.) also affects a spray tan.

The typical spray tan will last 7-10 days with proper care and upkeep.  It is important to follow the steps listed on our Tan Care page to get the best quality tan possible.

The majority of clients opt for the rapid blends meaning, you will rinse off after 1-4 hours. However, I do carry the 8hour blend for those who would prefer not being constricted to rinsing off at a set time.

A rapid tan will gradually develop over the next 8 hours after the first rinse, whereas, the 8 hour solutions are fully developed by the time you shower.
​
Rapid Tan Developing Guide:

1 hour- light (6%)

2 hours- medium (8%)

3 hours- medium/dark (10%)

4 hours- dark (12%)

5 hours- deep (14-15%)

overnight - super dark (16%)

I bring my spray tanning kit which looks like an makeup rolling case, and a pop up tent that expands to a 
7 x 4 x 4 foot size. I do need access to an outlet and good lighting. Most kitchens or entryways suffice.

Set up takes a couple minutes and I choose the appropriate custom blend for you.   

Spray tan solutions are a cosmetic and as such, reactions can occur.  The sunless products do have food based ingredients. Below is an average list of ingredients:

Yes!  A lighter DHA level is recommended on your first session and we may decide to increase in the future.

*Please note that the sunless tan does not contain sunscreen and that you can still burn on top of a spray tan so please use sunscreen. I recommend Sunburn or Banana Boat lotion. No sunscreen oils.

You must wait until the proper time to rinse. Refrain from getting wet or sweating until you rinse off.

During the remainder of your tan and in order to extend the lifespan, avoid:

• Hot tubs or bathtubs
• Pools and Ocean
• Massages
• Pedicures- Avoid after getting your spray tan. (Polish change is ok) but no soaking.
• No waxing
• No skin to skin contact until rinse off
• Spraying directly into skin any perfume or bug spray
• Any anti-aging or acne products
• Skip shaving days

Do:

• When getting out of the shower blot the skin dry, do not rub
• Moisturize
• Keep skin well hydrated, drink plenty water
• Apply sunscreen

If you followed the prepping instructions, other possible reasons are a lower PH level, stress, hormonal changes, medication, menstrual cycle, menopause, pregnancy, breastfeeding, dry skin and/or dehydration.

Also, your tan may fully develop but not last past 5 days due to the reasons above.

With a regular solution, the bronzer needs the full 8 hours before rinsing/showering, and the results will be seen.

With the rapid tans, you have a heavier bronzer applied to the skin and you will rinse off in 1-4 hours, and not have much initial color which is normal since the color will still take 8-10 hours to develop.

The difference mainly is convenience or rinsing off in 1-4 hours vs. 8 hours. The rapid tan is an accelerated formulation that will allow the client to rinse off in 1-4 hours depending on the darkness wanting to be achieved.

I always look for your skin color AND undertone to determine the best solution for your specific needs. Counteracting the solution base color to your undertone delivers the most natural spray tan.

Do not panic and read the following: Armpits will turn green if you spray the client and they have deodorant on. Also if the skin has any sweat or product residue (from the shower for example) Those areas will tun green as well when they come in contact with the spray tan solution.

Lack of exfoliation, super dry skin and or uneven PH balance can lead to uneven areas. I highly emphasize reading the prep instructions I provide when you book your appointment to eliminate any possible issues.

Experience has proven that most people will call with concerns prior to rinsing off. As the professional always ask first if they have showered. If they have not, 99% of the time it remedy’s itself once they rinse. If they tell you they have already rinsed off they probably did not do it long enough and there is still bronzer sticking to them. So advise to do another rinse and that usually solves this issue. If they complain that their legs are streaky ask if they had shaved prior to the session as that is usually the main thing that will cause this ( That’s why its a big no-no to do that and it is important to make sure the clients properly preps and you use a prep spray just in case) it can also be a result of them using bar soaps containing SLS. Body gel made for sunless tanning is always recommended.

Sometimes, this happens. If so, using a light scrub or you may create your own DIY one by mixing baking soda, lemon and a little sugar and blending that in those undesired areas. 

It is possible and very likely that your clothes might get stained; however, the solution is water soluble and will wash off in your regular wash cycle.  Darker, loose-fitted clothing is preferred for your appointment. 

Definitely consult with your doctor if you have any concerns or sudden allergies that may have risen during pregnancy. Due to all the hormonal changes that occur at this time, a spray tan may not last the full life length, may fade uneven or may not develop deep enough as you'd desire.  I will discuss this in more detail at your appointment.  Applying a second layer of a PH balancing prepping spray helps as well as keeping your skin well hydrated before and after your appointment.