FAQ: About Airbrush Spray Tanning


What is a Spray tan?

An instant pick-me-up for yourself and your skin, right in the comfort of your own home. It is not age or specific or skin specific. It is fast and convenient, and designed for the most sensitive of skin types.

Using an organic water based solution, sunless airbrush spray tanning is a safe way to achieve a sunkissed natural tan without the damaging effects of UV rays or tanning beds, and is far superior than a spray tanning booth.

A Spray tan’s color is the result of a DHA reaction on the top layer of your skin that takes 8 to 12 hours to fully develop (unless you are using an express solution which develops in as little as 2 hours). DHA is a derivative of sugarcane or beets. The scientific name is Dihydroxyacetone. It is not a real tan. It does not protect you from the sun- waterproof sunscreen of at least SPF 30 is recommended everyday. It has nothing to do with UV rays.

Not all DHA is the same. Simply Tan uses the highest quality that is refined with the least amount of ingredients, and both FDA certified and ECOCERT Certified When mixed with water it produces no color at all and actually goes on clear, because of this a bronzer is included in each solution. Bronzers wash completely off in your first shower after getting sprayed. The bronzer matches the tan that will develop, so what you see when your spray tan is complete is what you get- no surprises.


Why do people look orange with a spray tan?

It is not the solution, it is the education behind the spray gun. If the spray tan consultant exceeds the threshold that their body has for DHA, then they will turn orange. Simply Tan clients will have the confidence that their DHA threshold will be identified and recorded for consistency during every tan. We always start with a lower DHA solution and build up from there. 

Simply Tan has over 9 different solutions to successfully match your skin type and tone. We also offer 2 express solutions for those with last minute needs and a quick set tan is required.


Is DHA safe?

The FDA has tested and approved DHA for eternal use on the skin. Our premium grade DHA is also approved by ECOCERT.  Sunless tanning is the safest way to receive a healthy natural tan without the harmful effects of UV rays.   

Spray tanning is endorsed by:

The Skin Cancer Organization,
The American Cancer Society,
The American Medical Association,
The American Academy of Dermatology


Depending on your skin cycle, about 5-7 days for traditional solution, and 7-10 days for SILK express. Those with oily skin have a longer skin cycle than those with dry skin. Spray tanning only affects the topmost layer of your skin. This means that the tan you just got from your Simply Tan spray tan artist will only last as long as that top layer of skin, which is determined by your personal skin cycle (where dead skin sloughs off and is replaced by newer skin underneath).

While everyone’s skin cycle is unique, there are ways to extend the life of your tan by following the pre and post spray tan care instructions. Make sure to review before every appointment so you get the most out of your natural tan!

How long does a spray tan last?


Exfoliating before and moisturize after! Applying moisturizer at least twice a day will both prolong your tan and reduce the appearance of uneven fading and patchiness. Check out our skin care product line for the best products to use for skin prep and spray tan longevity: Simply Tan Skin Care

All of our skin care products are available at each of our studio locations.

How can I prevent my tan from fading unevenly and looking patchy?


YES. 

We have many clients that come to us worried about the reaction their skin might have. Any doubts or fears are removed when we share the details and ingredients about our solution.

Simply Tan solutions are:  

Doctor formulated.
Oil-free.
Alcohol-free.

Erythrulose-free.
Only made with FDA approved Ingredients.
PETA-approved.

Composed of the highest quality, premium grade DHA.
Water-based.
Vegan.
Not tested on Animals.

Free of harsh dyes and chemicals.
Nut-free and allergen-free.
Non-comedogenic
Hypoallergenic.

Formulated with long term health in mind.

I have sensitive skin, is it okay to spray tan?


How long will it take the DHA to develop?

You will see an immediate tan due to the natural cosmetic bronzer that is used as a color guide for the spray tan artist. For both Traditional and Express tans, your actual tan will take at least 8 hours to begin developing and can continue to develop up to 18 hours.

Bronzers wash completely off in your first shower after getting sprayed. For Traditional, the developed tan will be visible once you have showered off the bronzer. For Express, the developed tan will not be fully developed after your first rinse off since this is before the 8-18 hour setting time.


Spray tanning has not been tested on pregnant woman. Because of this we recommend you consult with and receive permission from your physician before receiving a DHA spray tan. Must be at least 12 weeks along. Nose plugs are required to be worn during your appointment, which Simply Tan provides.

Is it safe to spray tan when pregnant?


Sunless spray tanning is not a perfect science. Results will vary based on each individual’s skin type. Your skin is affected by several factors such as time of the month, season, food you eat, stress, medication you take etc. If your tan seems to be slightly different from one appointment to the next, even though the same solution was applied, the most probable cause is the condition of your skin.

Why do my tan results sometimes vary?


This is a common misconception! For a traditional tan, leaving the bronzer on longer than the 8-12 hour setting time will actually do the opposite....it will dry your skin and in turn your tan won’t last as long.

If I leave the bronzer on longer than instructed will my tan last longer?


A finishing powder applied right after your spray tan by your artist. The powder dries and sets your spray tan.

The benefits:

  • Skin feels dry and silky soft

  • Protects tan as it develops

  • Hydrated to extend life of tan

  • Clothes and sheets stay clean (no bronzer rub off)

  • Natural and hypoallergenic

  • Leaves you with a light shimmer!

What is Dry Finishing Powder?