How do the sunless tanning products work?

The active ingredient in almost all modern sunless tanning products is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). A colorless sugar, DHA interacts with the proteins and amino acids in the outer layer of your skin to produce a golden brown color. This is called the “Maillard Reaction”. In addition to DHA, Scentual Sun’s organic solutions contain Aloe, Vegetable Glycerin, White Tea and Grapefruit Seed Extract to actually moisturize and nourish your skin as your tan develops.

Gone are the orange tones associated with the products of old. In addition to DHA, most products contain an immediate bronzer. The formulation of the bronzer determines the initial color of your skin after application. This is where most products miss the mark. If you don’t like the color of your skin after you have applied the product it is because the bronzer has poor coloration. The initial color will only last until you take your first shower after it is initially applied. The color that remains is produced by the DHA reacting with your skin. DHA will always produce the same results based on concentration and application levels. Scentual Sun bronzers were designed by consulting with professional makeup artists and can be custom blended to the initial color you desire. In addition, you also have the choice of twelve delightful fragrances to choose from.

Is it safe?

Yes, when applied properly following FDA regulations. DHA is not to be applied to mucous membranes such as lips, female genitalia, opened eyes or inhaled. If you go to a salon that does not provide a ventilation system such as our “Eliminator” series unit you should turn around and leave. Mist on shower type booth operators should always provide you with nose filters to protect against inhalation since the spray cannot be controlled. The FDA has had many complaints of respiratory distress, dizziness, nausea, and fainting from inhaling over spray. DHA is not the culprit causing these reactions, it is other ingredients such as alcohol, and glycol ethers used to aid in penetration of the skin that are potentially harmful. Scentual Sun products do not contain any of these ingredients, as we are concerned first and foremost about the health and safety of our clients and technicians. Dihydroxyacetone is the only FDA approved sunless tanning color additive for use in the personal care industry. No adverse effects have been reported other than minor skin irritations on allergic people when used and applied properly. Allergic reactions are extremely rare and can usually be eliminated by showering. If you are unsure about any allergy to DHA we will provide a small patch test 24 hours prior to full body application.

How long does my sunless tan last?

Your tan will last approximately seven days or longer depending upon your ability to follow a proper daily moisturizing regiment and your lifestyle. A sunless tan fades just like a tan from the sun. As you slough off dead skin cells off with them goes your tan. Proper skin hydration is the key to maximum longevity. Scentual Sun has a complete line of aftercare products especially designed for use with your sunless tan. When used as directed our daily use our Derma Glow and Derma Silk moisturizers can extend your color and keep it smooth and even looking for up to two weeks.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for my tanning session?

Yes. Prior to being tanned you should exfoliate using Scentual Sun’s Derma New exfoliating scrub. Removing any dead cells and body oils will help the sunless tanner penetrate your skin and give you the best results. Do not use moisturizers prior to being tanned as they can clog pores and prohibit proper penetration. Our trained technicians will apply Derma Silk to elbows; knees and any other extremely dry area to prohibit excessive darkening prior to being sprayed. Makeup and deodorants can also prohibit absorption and should also be removed prior to tanning.

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 some of the solution will inevitably get on your suit. You should also wear loose fitting dark colored clothing and flip-flops as some of the bronzer can rub off on your clothing and shoes can cause your feet to perspire affecting the results. Natural fibers like 100% cotton sweats or Baggies are best. Any color that rubs off can usually be washed out during a normal wash cycle.

Is there anything I need to do to care for my sunless tan?

Caring for your sunless tan will prolong your results. Avoid getting wet or vigorous activities that can cause you to perspire until after your first shower. Once your tan has developed it becomes part of your outer skin layer. Avoid long hot soaking baths and showers, as they tend to exfoliate the skin. Keep your skin well hydrated by using Scentual Sun’s Derma Silk pH balanced moisturizer. Avoid drying of the skin by prolonged exposure to the elements. When swimming, apply a waterproof sunscreen as this will help keep your skin from absorbing too much moisture. When bathing do not scrub your skin with a washcloth. Use a moisturizing, gentle body wash with your hand. Pat yourself dry with a towel as opposed to rubbing and moisturize immediately after bathing. These techniques will help you keep your tan as long as possible.

Will I have tan lines?

You will have tan lines if you choose to be tanned wearing a bathing suit or other undergarments. Some customers prefer to be tanned in the nude to avoid tan lines. This is a personal preference and we leave it up to the customer and the individual salon to decide. At Scentual Sun we are professionals and nudity does not offend us. Again, it’s a personal choice.

Why is an airbrush application better than those misting booths or applying by hand?

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, hair, blemishes and other skin afflictions that tend to absorb more color.

Mist-on booths require a series of body contortions within the booth to cover each area. The machine or the consumer has no control over the product and where it ends up. A shower cap must be worn to protect the hair from discoloration. A natural look will take the tan up to the hairline. This can’t be achieved in a booth without exposing it to the mist. Covering the hairline completely results in unsightly tan lines on the forehead and neck.
Hand application often results in streaky coloration and stained hands due to the inability to properly apply the product by yourself. In addition you are rubbing the product in as opposed to having it gently settle on the skin.
Additionally, FDA regulations state emphatically that the active ingredient DHA not be inhaled or applied to mucous membranes such as lips, eyes and female genitalia. A machine cannot make these distinctions and most are operating in direct violation of the safe practices as dictated by the FDA. The airbrush with its inherent precision and flexibility is by far the application method of choice

How long does it take?

A typical full-body session takes about fifteen to twenty minutes. Partial body services take proportionately less time. Please be prompt for your appointment. We allow a small time buffer between clients. Should you arrive at such a time as to inconvenience our next client you will be charged for your visit and not be tanned. If you have time to wait and we have an opening we will accommodate you at that time. This is not always possible.