How It Works

The FDA advises that users avoid inhaling or ingesting DHA or letting the spray get into the eyes. When using DHA-containing products as an all-over spray or mist, it may be difficult to avoid exposure in a manner for which DHA is not approved, including the area of the eyes, lips, or mucous membrane, or internally.
The FDA recommends protective measures to eliminate eye contact, inhalation or ingestion during a spray tan session, such as:
• Eye protection
• Nose filters
• Ear plugs
• Lip balm
• Undergarments
For additional questions or concerns regarding DHA, consult a health care professional.

FDA recommends that DHA not be inhaled. Nose filters are recommended – please consult a pharmacy or other specialist supplier for purchase. For additional questions or if irritation persists, consult a health care professional.

FDA recommends that DHA not be used in the eyes or surrounding area. Protective eyewear is recommended. If eyes feel irritated, gently splash with water. For additional questions or if irritation persists, consult a health care professional.

The tanning solution used by Tan Express is safe, however, for those with skin sensitivities or allergies, it is recommended to consult a health care professional before using the product.

The active ingredient most often used in all sunless tanners including tinted moisturisers, self-tanners, and spray tan solution is called Dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. DHA is a carbohydrate (monosaccharide sugar) compound approved by the FDA for use in externally applied sunless tanning solutions. For misting applications, the FDA recommends protective measures to prevent eye contact, inhalation or ingestion. DHA is often derived from a vegetable source like beets or sugar cane. The FDA added DHA to the list of approved colors for cosmetic products in the 1970s.

Yes, take-home products from Mystic Tan, Norvell and VersaSpa sold in the salon will enhance and extend sunless spray tanning results. Ask the Salon Professional to explain and recommend the right product for your skin type and desired results.

A sunless spray tan can last up to 5-7 days depending on the solution you select and the condition of your skin.

The sunless spray tanning solution which includes a cosmetic bronzer is water soluble and will
be removed after the next wash in cold water. However, in some instances, the DHA in the tanning
solution may permanently stain undergarments worn during the spray session.

Tan Express uses high quality ‘VersaSpa’ sunless spray tanning solution. The solution uses a breakthrough odour control technology designed to virtually eliminate the odor that may be present when the solution interacts with the skin.

The advanced technology currently used in Tan Express sunless tanning solutions is designed to ensure
a natural, bronze tan. If you have any concerns, our team can help you select the proper level of tanning solution to best match your skin tone.

Swimming in chlorinated water or salt water can fade the sunless spray tanning results, cause possible streaking and diminish the length of your tan. However, normal activities such as bathing, showering or physical activities will not affect the quality of the tan.

How should I prepare for my Sunless Spray Tanning Session?

Exfoliate and shave the day before or the day of the sunless spray tanning session (day before is preferred).
The day of the sunless spray tanning session refrain from using moisturizers, perfumes, lotions, oils or deodorants that may create a barrier between the skin and the sunless tanning solution. You may resume using these after your first shower or bath.

How long should I wait after a spray tan before showering? To give the DHA enough time to fully set, it is recommended to wait a minimum of 8 hours after a sunless spray tanning session or 24 hours for optimal results. Showering sooner may diminish the intensity of the tan. If you tan using an Instant Cosmetic bronzer, the instant cosmetic color will wash off in the shower, but the color produced by the DHA will remain.

Wondering what a spray tan is and how it works? The active ingredients in spray tan solution are DHA (dihydroxyacetone) and Erythrulose.

When sprayed on the skin, DHA reacts with the proteins in the skin’s superficial layer to form a golden-brown colour. Your skin begins to darken 2-3 hours after application and reaches its peak colour within 24 hours. The colour will gradually fade through natural exfoliation, just like a tan from the sun

Erythrulose is similar to DHA as an active ingredient because it also produces colour on the skin and is a naturally based sugar found in red raspberries. It works in combination with DHA to produce a tan that lasts longer, fades more evenly, and provides natural looking colour for all skin types. Erythrulose continues to develop over 48 hours which extends the tan and creates the natural fade.