Sunless Tanning Tips

Sunless tanning (or spray-on tans) has become a popular, safer alternative in recent years to the prolonged sun exposure often needed to obtain that healthy “glow” for your event. Today’s products (both home and in the salon) are longer lasting and easier to use.

Do-it-yourself sunless tanning options come in many forms: lotions, sprays, creams, airbrushing and tanning accelerators. Most of these products contain Dihydroxyacetone or DHA, which is the active ingredient that produces the brown pigmentation. Whether you do it yourself or go to a salon, do a trial “run” well in advance of your event, especially if this is your first time trying sunless tanning.

Before you tan:

1. Read the instructions (and warnings) thoroughly. Educate yourself on any risks.

2. Exfoliate - Remove dead skin from your body with a loofah sponge. This will ensure that the self tanner is applied directly to healthy skin and will help you to tan more evenly.

3. Shave at least 8 hours prior to tanning.

4. Moisturize – A good water-based moisturizer will make sure that your skin is ready to accept the tanning product and will create a smoother finish. An oil-based product can interfere with tanning. Ask your salon if they recommend a specific type to work with their tanning spray. Allow time for your moisturizer to fully dry before tanning.

5. Keep in mind that dryer areas (knees, elbows) will tan more quickly.

6. If tanning in a salon, apply the spray blocker they provide between your fingers, on the palms of your hands, etc for a more natural look.

7. A salon should provide you with a cap for your hair (make sure you to leave your ears out) and booties for your feet.

While tanning: 8. Although applying a sunless tanner yourself can save you money, it can also be a little tricky to apply it evenly. You may want to have a friend assist you with the hard-to-reach places like your back and shoulder blades.

9. If you prefer to wear a bathing suit, make sure if fits properly. If it’s loose, the tanning spray may get underneath, making it difficult to have defined tanning lines.

10. Wash your hands immediately following self-application (you don’t want the palms of your hands to tan).

11. If using a salon, make sure you wear protective eyewear so the spray doesn’t burn your eyes.

After you tan:

12. Blot yourself dry with a towel to remove excess product that can lead to streaking.

13. Avoid white/light clothing until you’re fully dry.

14. Keep in mind that you’ll continue to darken for 24 hours.

15. Avoid showering for 8-12 hours if possible.

16. Clean anything that came in contact with the spray so you don’t discolor your bathroom vanity, bedspread, etc.

17. Avoid strenuous exercise – you don’t want to sweat and tan unevenly.

18. Avoid drinking water for a few hours, as it can interfere with the DHA.

19. Apply a moisturizer daily to prolong your tan. There are special moisturizers that work in conjunction with sunless tanning sprays.