Sunless Tanning
I would like to give you a brief overview on Sunless Tanning:
Tanning salons offer a few different options for sunless tanning. Some salons offer an automated booth such as Mystic Tan or VersaSpa, and others have an actual airbrush technicians. In any type of sunless tan, the active ingredient is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). The DHA reacts with the amino acids on the skin, temporally darkening the skin’s appearance. The color does not wash off in water, it gradually fades as the dead skin cells fall off. The typical sunless tan lasts anywhere between 5-10 days depending on the aftercare. Each brand of sunless offers a few different color options, making it easier to achieve a natural looking sunless tan.
Regardless of which type of sunless one does, the pre-sunless prep is pretty much universal. Prior to a sunless, it is important to shower, shave, exfoliate and to not put any type of lotions or makeup on. This is so the skin is fresh, the sunless will last longer that way. Many people prefer to wear loose fitting clothing to get a sunless tan as well. It is not necessary, and most sunless tans will not rub off on clothes, but it tends to be more comfortable after the sunless is applied. After getting a sunless, the skin should not get wet for about 6 hours, this includes sweating. If the skin does get wet in any way, the results of the sunless could be compromised.
Depending on what type of sunless a particular tanning salon offers, the actual sunless procedure can vary. The best thing to do it visit the salons website and become familiar with their equipment. A tanning salon attendant will also breakdown the exact process prior to ones sunless session.
If a sunless tan does come out blotchy or streaky, there are some ways to fix it. Lemons can easily lighten the color by rubbing a piece on the area. Baking soda and white toothpaste can also be applied to fix any sunless mistakes.
Here is a quick video on the Mystic Spray Tan: