Soleil Tans Sun Spa

What is Sunless Tanning?

Sunless tanning is a popular way to enjoy the look of a tan without the need to go in the sun or tanning bed.

Many years ago, the first self-tanners introduced to the market contained dyes that left the skin orange and streaked. Today, thanks to modern technology, Self-tanners are the perfect solution for creating an instant, realistic tan without unsightly orange streaking.

How Sunless-Tanners (DHA) Work

DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) is used as a sunless-tanning agent. It does not produce a “real tan” by increasing skin melanin levels, but it can create the tan appearance by way of the development of a brown skin coloring. The action of DHA is limited to the upper layer of the skin and involves a reaction between DHA and skin proteins. DHA reacts with the amino acids and amino groups of the skin’s keratin-forming brown colored compounds. The process takes place in the outer layers of the epidermis.

There is much evidence to suggest that the process is similar to Maillard reaction, also known as “non-enzymatic browning”. In this reaction, reducing sugars combine with amino Acids, proteins and peptides to form various amino carbonyl compounds via a complex chain of reactions, which is not yet completely understood.

According to the Maillard reaction, pyruvic acid and other hydroxycarbonyl compounds are probably formed from dihydroxyacetone, which, after further reaction steps, form brown compounds. The development of color takes anywhere from 2 – 6 hours and the intensity is dependent on the formulation concentration of the DHA in the product.

Preparing For a Sunless Tan Application

Before your session:
Your skin naturally replaces itself every 28 days, which means about 25% of it is replaced each week. When using sunless sprays, it’s important to note that they only affect the top 25% of your skin. To ensure the best results, avoid using bar soap, high pH shower products or in-shower moisturizers as these can prevent the DHA from working and may cause an unattractive orange color. Additionally, avoid getting overheated or sweating as this can negatively impact the outcome of the DHA and cause streaking. Finally, do not apply lotion, moisturizers, perfume, deodorant or makeup before the session. If makeup is worn, it should be removed gently before the spray application. If hair removal is necessary please follow these guidelines, if you are shaving do so 24 hours before your sunless tan. If you will be waxing either your eye brows or your bikini line please do so at least two days before your session.

Not prepared for your session?  No worries:
It’s important to follow the recommendations above to prepare your skin for the sunless spray. If you haven’t followed them, we will spray you but you will need to purchase a PH balancing mitt to exfoliate your skin. This step is crucial for a successful outcome and to avoid dissatisfaction with the experience. Keep in mind that the final results may vary depending on various factors.

How do dress for your sunless tan:
When you come in for your sunless spray, it’s important to wear dark colored, loose fitting clothing. Tight clothes can rub off and smear the bronzer. Also, please remove all jewelry and come with freshly showered skin. Be sure not to have any deodorant, lotion or perfumes on. We will provide barrier cream for you to use on areas such as in between your fingers and toes, as well as your nail beds, palms, knees and elbows. We will also provide sticky-feet for your soles and hair nets for your hair, but do not put it on your forehead.

Aftercare for a Sunless Tan Application

Immediate aftercare for your sunless tan:
To ensure the best results of your sunless spray, it is important to avoid sweating or getting wet for at least 6-8 hours after the application. Sweating or getting wet can deactivate the DHA and cause streaking. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid swimming in chemically treated pools, hot tubs or spas for 24 hours and also avoid showering for at least 6-8 hours after the spray.

Long term aftercare for your sunless tan:
Six to eight hours after your sunless spray, it’s okay to shower with cool water. Do not use soap, just a plain water rinse. It’s normal for the water to be brown as you’re rinsing off the cosmetic bronzers. These bronzers are water-soluble, so they will not stain your clothes or bed sheets. If any color gets on your clothes or sheets, it will wash out easily.

After the recommended 6-8 hours waiting period, you can shower as normal, however, it’s important to use a low PH balancing shower gel such as Norvell post-tan shower cleanser and use cool water. Hot water, shaving, scrubs, peels, loofahs, or any other abrasive products can reduce the lifespan of your tan. Typically, a spray tan can last between 5-7 days. However, the longevity of the tan can vary depending on individual habits, some people may have it last 7-10 days and others may have it last only 3-5 days. It is important to consider and modify your habits to maximize the life expectancy of your tan.

Customized Spray Tanning

Thank You for choosing Soleil Tans for your sunless tanning needs. Our trained staff utilizes the Norvell sunless tanning unit and solution to provide you with a quick and beautiful sunless tan that’s perfect every time! Every application is customized for your specific skin type and desired results. The formula is adjusted to your skin type, which insures the perfect tan. Sunless tanning results will last for approximately 7 to 10 days when cared for properly.