How Spray Tanning Works
Spray tanning is a great way to achieve a beautiful tan without exposing your skin to the harmful rays of the sun. But, how does spray tanning work?
The process of airbrush tanning uses a small air compressor to gently mist your skin with tanning solution. Di-Hydroxy-Acetone (DHA) is the product that will tan your skin, and the amount of DHA in the solution will determine how dark your tan is. Those with lighter colored skin should choose a lower concentration of DHA in order to ensure that the tan looks beautiful and natural. Darker tones can be achieved by increasing the DHA concentration.
This solution is safe and easy to use, but there are a few things that you should know about before spray tanning your skin:
Preparation before your tan is vital to ensuring that your tan will be smooth and long-lasting. Before applying a spray tan solution you should remove dead skin cells by washing well in the shower and using a loofah or wash cloth to brush off the dry and dead skin. After you have cleansed, be sure that you do not apply any product to your skin– things such as deodorant, lotion, moisturizers, etc will prevent the DHA from tanning your skin, and in turn may cause you to have an un-even tan.
During the spray tanning process, it is important to coat the skin evenly and also make sure to move positions in order to get all of the creases and crevices on the area that you are tanning.
After the spray tanning process is complete, allow the solution to completely dry on your skin before covering it with clothing. Once you dress, it is a good idea to wear dark clothing in the beginning, because some of the solution may rub off on your clothes. Do not get your skin wet for at least 8 hours after the tanning process, this time will allow the DHA solution to soak into your skin– and you will actually see your tan darkening during the first few hours.
Once you have waited for at least 8 hours after the spray tanning application, do not exfoliate or use any type of abrasive products that may rub off the skin cells– these items may make your tan appear blotchy and your tan will not last as long. Do not rub your skin harshly, it is a good idea to use a patting motion instead of rubbing. Also, if you want your tan to last longer you should moisturize often.