Sunless Airbrush Spray Tanning FAQs
For the researchers among us, there is a staggering volume of information and misinformation on the internet regarding sunless tanning. The methods, recommended products and preparation techniques provided are often contradictory and confusing. At TOAST, we are dedicated to providing objective, science-based information that has also proven true in our experience. We want you to get the most from our services and strive to exceed your expectations in both knowledge and personal service.
To that end, we have compiled a list of most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not answered here, please contact us.
How do the sunless tanning products work?
The main active ingredient in sunless tanning products is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). A colorless sugar, DHA interacts with the proteins and amino acids in the outer layer of the skin to produce a golden brown color. This is called the “Maillard Reaction”. By this reaction, DHA will always produce the same results based on concentration and application levels. In addition to DHA, our natural sunless solutions contain Aloe, Vegetable Glycerin, White Tea and Grapefruit Seed Extract and hyaluronic acid to actually moisturize and nourish your skin as your tan develops.
Most sunless products also contain an immediate bronzer. The formulation of the bronzer determines the initial color of your skin after application. This initial color washes off in your first post-tanning shower, revealing your DHA "tan". If your immediate sunless color is not optimal, the bronzer is likely to blame. Formulas vary, and our products at TOAST are the most versatile available. Our exhaustive research into sunless products led us to solutions, including natural and/or organic ingredients, designed through consultation with professional makeup artists. Formulas can be custom blended to the initial color you desire, and your tanning specialist can adjust the level of DHA in your custom solution to be consistent with your skin type.
Is it safe?
Yes, DHA is approved by the FDA for application on non-mucosal areas of the skin. As such, FDA guidelines state that nose filters, eye protection and lip balm should be provided to users of mist-on booths, and swimsuit or other bottoms should be worn, as the spray in these units is not controlled or efficiently evacuated.
While mucous membranes should not be exposed to DHA to avoid possible absorption into those skin surfaces, complaints to the FDA of respiratory distress, dizziness and nausea from inhalation of overspray in sunless units is not necessarily attributable to DHA, but to additive ingredients. We offer products featuring natural and/or organic ingredients wherever possible. Click here for more information on EcoCert approved DHA.
Allergic reactions are extremely rare and no adverse effects to DHA have been reported other than minor skin irritations on allergic people. These are usually be relieved by showering. If you are unsure whether you have an allergy to DHA, we will happily provide a small patch test 24 hours prior to full body application.
How long does my sunless tan last?
With proper preparation and daily moisturizing, your tan will last approximately five to seven days, possibly longer. Those who shower more than once daily will fade more quickly than clients whose routine includes one daily shower and a regular non-petroleum moisturizer. A sunless tan fades just like a tan from the sun. As you slough off dead skin cells, so goes your tan. Proper skin hydration is the key to tan longevity. Used as directed, sunless products can extend your color and keep it smooth and even for up to two weeks.
Can you use tanning beds or tan outdoors in conjunction with sunless tanning?
Absolutely. Although repeated exposure to ultraviolet light is deemed to cause premature aging and cancers of the skin, you can still do both. It is important to note that sunless tanning offers no protection from ultraviolet light. Although you will appear to be tan, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is still necessary to prevent burning and other possible skin damage from UV exposure. Drying your skin in the sun or by alternative UV sources can reduce the longevity of your sunless tan.
Can I tan with a sunburn?
You can, but it's not a great idea. Inflamed, red skin from a new sunburn develops the tan differently than healthy skin, which can cause unreliable fading. As your body heals your injury, the top layer of skin becomes more and more dehydrated, ultimately cracking and peeling in spotty patches. Sunburned skin that is peeling will grab the spray tan unevenly, develop unevenly and continue to peel away in splotches. Spray tan simply does not do well on burnt, damaged skin. There is nothing even the most talented spray tan artist can do to even out sunburn damage with DHA. If you are sunburned, we suggest a great moisturizer and temporary cosmetic bronzer. This is a transfer-resistant (not transfer-proof) body makeup that we apply and you wash completely away after your event. While this is not a perfect solution, it can diminish the uneven appearance of damaged skin without further drying or exacerbating patchiness. The best solution is pro-active diligent sunscreen use!
Should I do anything to prepare for my tanning session?
Yes. Prior to being tanned you should exfoliate using an oil-free scrub. Do not use bar soaps, or moisturizing spa-type cleansers as these leave residue which will interfere with the development of your tan. Removing dead cells and body oils helps the sunless tanner adhere to your skin for the best results. We carry our favorite scrubs for pre-sunless, and will be happy to help you select the proper one for your skin. Do not use moisturizers prior to being tanned as they can clog pores and inhibit proper penetration of the solution. Before your session we will provide our own hydrating blend for elbows, knees, hands, feet and any other extremely dry areas to prohibit excessive darkening in these areas. Makeup and deodorants may also inhibit absorption and should be removed prior to tanning.
What should I wear to my session?
During the appointment - If you choose to be tanned in a bathing suit, we suggest you buy one especially for use while tanning or use an older one as solution will inevitably get on your suit. We suggest a stick-on type bra for clients who do not want strap lines, but prefer not to tan topless. Stick-on bras are available for purchase at our studio, or in the lingerie section at most department stores.
Female clients over the age of 18 may choose to tan topless or in the nude. Male clients must wear bottoms, and many find fitted boxer briefs to be the best solution. All clients under 18 years of age must have a signed parental approval form, and must tan in a full swimsuit. Toast® tan artists are professionals and will make every effort to accommodate your needs and make you as comfortable as possible whatever you choose to wear.
After the appointment - You should wear loose fitting, dark colored clothing and flip-flops as bronzer can rub off on your clothing and some shoes rub off solution, negatively affecting the results. Avoid tight clothing, denim and exposed elastics (as in smocked tops and the liner in running shorts), as these will slough your skin, and create development issues immediately after your tan. Clothing that would leave a mark on your skin, will leave a mark in your developing tan. Cotton sweats, soft pajamas or a long sundress work well. Bronzer color that transfers will sometimes wash out in a normal wash cycle, but there is no guarantee. Please choose your post-tan attire accordingly.
Will I have tan lines?
It's your call. It depends on what you wear during tanning. We recommend that clients wear an old, dark swimsuit or undergarments. Some clients purchase an inexpensive swimsuit dedicated to their tanning sessions. We carry disposable thongs, and c-strings and sticky bras for purchase and use by female clients. Stick-on bras are a great solution for those who do not want strap lines, but would rather not tan topless. These bras are also available in the lingerie section at most department stores. Please note that the tanning attire we carry is chosen to leave minimal tan lines, so these items are scant!
Female clients 18 and over may choose to tan topless or in the nude. Male clients must wear bottoms, and many find fitted boxer briefs to be the best solution. All clients under 18 years of age must have a signed parental approval form and must tan in both top (sticky bra is fine) and bottoms. Be assured that we are professionals and will make every effort to accommodate your needs and make you as comfortable as possible whatever you choose to wear.
What can I do to care for my sunless tan?
Caring for your sunless tan will prolong your results. Avoid exposure to water and activities that might cause you to perspire, until after your first post-tanning shower. Once your tan has developed, it is a part of your outer skin layer and, just as with a UV tan, activities that exfoliate the skin will slowly fade your color. Keep your skin well hydrated with a moisturizer that is free of petroleum: mineral oil, petrolatum, and paraffin. Avoid products that contain Vitamin C, retinol and other ingredients intended to accelerate turnover of your skin. Avoid the drying effects of prolonged exposure to the elements. Use a sulfate-free, gentle body wash in the shower and do not use a loofah, washcloth or Clarisonic for the duration of your tan. Pat dry after showering or swimming, as opposed to rubbing. These simple measures will help maximize the look and length of your tan.
Can I tan if I'm pregnant?
With your obstetrician's approval. It is generally accepted that properly applied sunless, done in an environment with adequate ventilation, is safe for mothers-to-be. The final decision about whether sunless spray tanning is appropriate during your pregnancy should be made by you and your physician.
How long does it take?
A typical full-body session takes about 20 minutes. Contouring takes longer and partial body services take slightly less time. Plan for extra time at your first visit to allow for preparation and to become accustomed to the Toast® airbrush spraying method. We do allow a small time buffer between clients, but ask that you be prompt, and arrive prepared for your appointment. We do our best to accommodate for traffic and unforeseen circumstances, but late arrivals are subject to re-schedule, and will be charged at the full amount of the service. Please read the cancellation policy posted on the website and included with your new client documents.
Why is the airbrush application superior to misting booths or applying by hand?f
The airbrush is a precision instrument that allows for a smooth, flawless application. Special care can be taken to avoid over application on problem areas such as knees, elbows, around the hairline, and for skin blemishes that tend to absorb more color. While all methods of sunless tanning require positioning and re-positioning to evenly apply solution, mist-on booths are pre-set to a timer and volume of spray that does not adjust for the individual. The consumer has little control over the product and where it lands, and the machine has zero control.
Hand application often results in streaky coloration and stained hands depending on the individual's ability to properly apply the product. Uneven coloration is common with self-tanners that are rubbed in as opposed to gently settling on the skin. Even popular aerosol cans are difficult for the individual to apply evenly.
The airbrush, with its inherent precision and flexibility, is by far the application method of choice.
How can I make an appointment?
Click on the 'Book Now' button below to be directed to our convenient 24/7 online booking service, and to see our complete menu of services offered.
The main active ingredient in sunless tanning products is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). A colorless sugar, DHA interacts with the proteins and amino acids in the outer layer of the skin to produce a golden brown color. This is called the “Maillard Reaction”. By this reaction, DHA will always produce the same results based on concentration and application levels. In addition to DHA, our natural sunless solutions contain Aloe, Vegetable Glycerin, White Tea and Grapefruit Seed Extract and hyaluronic acid to actually moisturize and nourish your skin as your tan develops.
Most sunless products also contain an immediate bronzer. The formulation of the bronzer determines the initial color of your skin after application. This initial color washes off in your first post-tanning shower, revealing your DHA "tan". If your immediate sunless color is not optimal, the bronzer is likely to blame. Formulas vary, and our products at TOAST are the most versatile available. Our exhaustive research into sunless products led us to solutions, including natural and/or organic ingredients, designed through consultation with professional makeup artists. Formulas can be custom blended to the initial color you desire, and your tanning specialist can adjust the level of DHA in your custom solution to be consistent with your skin type.
Is it safe?
Yes, DHA is approved by the FDA for application on non-mucosal areas of the skin. As such, FDA guidelines state that nose filters, eye protection and lip balm should be provided to users of mist-on booths, and swimsuit or other bottoms should be worn, as the spray in these units is not controlled or efficiently evacuated.
While mucous membranes should not be exposed to DHA to avoid possible absorption into those skin surfaces, complaints to the FDA of respiratory distress, dizziness and nausea from inhalation of overspray in sunless units is not necessarily attributable to DHA, but to additive ingredients. We offer products featuring natural and/or organic ingredients wherever possible. Click here for more information on EcoCert approved DHA.
Allergic reactions are extremely rare and no adverse effects to DHA have been reported other than minor skin irritations on allergic people. These are usually be relieved by showering. If you are unsure whether you have an allergy to DHA, we will happily provide a small patch test 24 hours prior to full body application.
How long does my sunless tan last?
With proper preparation and daily moisturizing, your tan will last approximately five to seven days, possibly longer. Those who shower more than once daily will fade more quickly than clients whose routine includes one daily shower and a regular non-petroleum moisturizer. A sunless tan fades just like a tan from the sun. As you slough off dead skin cells, so goes your tan. Proper skin hydration is the key to tan longevity. Used as directed, sunless products can extend your color and keep it smooth and even for up to two weeks.
Can you use tanning beds or tan outdoors in conjunction with sunless tanning?
Absolutely. Although repeated exposure to ultraviolet light is deemed to cause premature aging and cancers of the skin, you can still do both. It is important to note that sunless tanning offers no protection from ultraviolet light. Although you will appear to be tan, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is still necessary to prevent burning and other possible skin damage from UV exposure. Drying your skin in the sun or by alternative UV sources can reduce the longevity of your sunless tan.
Can I tan with a sunburn?
You can, but it's not a great idea. Inflamed, red skin from a new sunburn develops the tan differently than healthy skin, which can cause unreliable fading. As your body heals your injury, the top layer of skin becomes more and more dehydrated, ultimately cracking and peeling in spotty patches. Sunburned skin that is peeling will grab the spray tan unevenly, develop unevenly and continue to peel away in splotches. Spray tan simply does not do well on burnt, damaged skin. There is nothing even the most talented spray tan artist can do to even out sunburn damage with DHA. If you are sunburned, we suggest a great moisturizer and temporary cosmetic bronzer. This is a transfer-resistant (not transfer-proof) body makeup that we apply and you wash completely away after your event. While this is not a perfect solution, it can diminish the uneven appearance of damaged skin without further drying or exacerbating patchiness. The best solution is pro-active diligent sunscreen use!
Should I do anything to prepare for my tanning session?
Yes. Prior to being tanned you should exfoliate using an oil-free scrub. Do not use bar soaps, or moisturizing spa-type cleansers as these leave residue which will interfere with the development of your tan. Removing dead cells and body oils helps the sunless tanner adhere to your skin for the best results. We carry our favorite scrubs for pre-sunless, and will be happy to help you select the proper one for your skin. Do not use moisturizers prior to being tanned as they can clog pores and inhibit proper penetration of the solution. Before your session we will provide our own hydrating blend for elbows, knees, hands, feet and any other extremely dry areas to prohibit excessive darkening in these areas. Makeup and deodorants may also inhibit absorption and should be removed prior to tanning.
What should I wear to my session?
During the appointment - If you choose to be tanned in a bathing suit, we suggest you buy one especially for use while tanning or use an older one as solution will inevitably get on your suit. We suggest a stick-on type bra for clients who do not want strap lines, but prefer not to tan topless. Stick-on bras are available for purchase at our studio, or in the lingerie section at most department stores.
Female clients over the age of 18 may choose to tan topless or in the nude. Male clients must wear bottoms, and many find fitted boxer briefs to be the best solution. All clients under 18 years of age must have a signed parental approval form, and must tan in a full swimsuit. Toast® tan artists are professionals and will make every effort to accommodate your needs and make you as comfortable as possible whatever you choose to wear.
After the appointment - You should wear loose fitting, dark colored clothing and flip-flops as bronzer can rub off on your clothing and some shoes rub off solution, negatively affecting the results. Avoid tight clothing, denim and exposed elastics (as in smocked tops and the liner in running shorts), as these will slough your skin, and create development issues immediately after your tan. Clothing that would leave a mark on your skin, will leave a mark in your developing tan. Cotton sweats, soft pajamas or a long sundress work well. Bronzer color that transfers will sometimes wash out in a normal wash cycle, but there is no guarantee. Please choose your post-tan attire accordingly.
Will I have tan lines?
It's your call. It depends on what you wear during tanning. We recommend that clients wear an old, dark swimsuit or undergarments. Some clients purchase an inexpensive swimsuit dedicated to their tanning sessions. We carry disposable thongs, and c-strings and sticky bras for purchase and use by female clients. Stick-on bras are a great solution for those who do not want strap lines, but would rather not tan topless. These bras are also available in the lingerie section at most department stores. Please note that the tanning attire we carry is chosen to leave minimal tan lines, so these items are scant!
Female clients 18 and over may choose to tan topless or in the nude. Male clients must wear bottoms, and many find fitted boxer briefs to be the best solution. All clients under 18 years of age must have a signed parental approval form and must tan in both top (sticky bra is fine) and bottoms. Be assured that we are professionals and will make every effort to accommodate your needs and make you as comfortable as possible whatever you choose to wear.
What can I do to care for my sunless tan?
Caring for your sunless tan will prolong your results. Avoid exposure to water and activities that might cause you to perspire, until after your first post-tanning shower. Once your tan has developed, it is a part of your outer skin layer and, just as with a UV tan, activities that exfoliate the skin will slowly fade your color. Keep your skin well hydrated with a moisturizer that is free of petroleum: mineral oil, petrolatum, and paraffin. Avoid products that contain Vitamin C, retinol and other ingredients intended to accelerate turnover of your skin. Avoid the drying effects of prolonged exposure to the elements. Use a sulfate-free, gentle body wash in the shower and do not use a loofah, washcloth or Clarisonic for the duration of your tan. Pat dry after showering or swimming, as opposed to rubbing. These simple measures will help maximize the look and length of your tan.
Can I tan if I'm pregnant?
With your obstetrician's approval. It is generally accepted that properly applied sunless, done in an environment with adequate ventilation, is safe for mothers-to-be. The final decision about whether sunless spray tanning is appropriate during your pregnancy should be made by you and your physician.
How long does it take?
A typical full-body session takes about 20 minutes. Contouring takes longer and partial body services take slightly less time. Plan for extra time at your first visit to allow for preparation and to become accustomed to the Toast® airbrush spraying method. We do allow a small time buffer between clients, but ask that you be prompt, and arrive prepared for your appointment. We do our best to accommodate for traffic and unforeseen circumstances, but late arrivals are subject to re-schedule, and will be charged at the full amount of the service. Please read the cancellation policy posted on the website and included with your new client documents.
Why is the airbrush application superior to misting booths or applying by hand?f
The airbrush is a precision instrument that allows for a smooth, flawless application. Special care can be taken to avoid over application on problem areas such as knees, elbows, around the hairline, and for skin blemishes that tend to absorb more color. While all methods of sunless tanning require positioning and re-positioning to evenly apply solution, mist-on booths are pre-set to a timer and volume of spray that does not adjust for the individual. The consumer has little control over the product and where it lands, and the machine has zero control.
Hand application often results in streaky coloration and stained hands depending on the individual's ability to properly apply the product. Uneven coloration is common with self-tanners that are rubbed in as opposed to gently settling on the skin. Even popular aerosol cans are difficult for the individual to apply evenly.
The airbrush, with its inherent precision and flexibility, is by far the application method of choice.
How can I make an appointment?
Click on the 'Book Now' button below to be directed to our convenient 24/7 online booking service, and to see our complete menu of services offered.
