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How do the sunless tanning products work?
Most sunless tanning products use Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), as the active "tanning" ingredient. DHA is a skin safe sugar derivative, which has been used in the cosmetic industry for over 30 years. DHA interacts with the outermost, surface skin layer, producing a golden brown color that resembles the coloration of a UV based tan.
DHA reacts with the naturally occuring amino acids and keratin proteins, in the "dead" skin cells resting on the skin surface. This process is called the "Maillard Reaction". It is very similar to the reaction that you see when you cut a potato or an apple slice, and leave it exposed to the air.
Some products also use Erythrulose as an active ingredient, Either alone, or more commonly, combined with DHA. Erythrulose has a chemical makeup very similar to DHA, and works essentially the same.
Many sunless tanning solutions contain added bronzers. The bronzer, or added tint, is water soluble "makeup". It will wash away in the first shower. The added tint does not affect the color of the final longer lasting DHA tan.
The merge of skin colorants of the bronzers determines the primary (or instant) color of your skin when you leave the salon.
Made In The Shade Tanning Solutions, are all custom blended to delicately enhance all skin tones, allowing customers to leave with a natural looking tint; that continues to look eye pleasing as the DHA tan deepens. It is fine-tuned to minimize wash off, so the final tan is the same depth as the immediate colorguide enhanced tan.
The initial color lasts until your first shower. The color that remains is produced by the DHA reacting with our skin. DHA will always produce the same results based on concentration and application levels.
How safe is this?
Dihydroxyacetone ws permanently added to the FDA "safe" list of skin care ingredients in the 1970's. It has been safely used in the cosmetic industry for over 30 years. In that time-frame there have been no indications that DHA is damaging to skin health or the human body.
There have been a small number of reported minor rashes or skin irritations in people with allergies or skin sensitivities. However, DHA allergies are extremely rare.
Although no problems have been reported, for the peace of mind of our clients, and technicians, we do not recommend usage by pregnant women.
How long does my sunless tan last?
Your sunless tan will last approximately five to ten days or longer. Tan fading rate is influenced by your skins natural exfoliation rate, your pre-tan preparation, post tan care, general skin health, and you life style.
A sunless tan will fade off continually everyday, just like a UV based tan. Everyday you loose thousands of dead skin cells, about 25 % of your color, as they fall away, so does your tan.
Proper skin HYDRATION is the key to maximum longevity. Made In The Shade Tans has a complete line of aftercare products especially designed for use with your sunless tan. When used as directed our Tan and Skin Care product's can extend your color, keep it smooth and even for up to two weeks. (Results can vary based on your skins normal cell turn-over rate)
How do I prepare for my tanning session?
Before each tanning session, skin should be cleaned and thoroughly, but gently, exfoliated. You should fully exfoliate, using overlapping circular motions, pay special attention to thick or dry skin areas. (Feet, knees, elbows, etc.)
You may use a body brush, exfoliating gloves or a quality scrub. We recommend one of our exfoliating scrubs designed for use with your sunless tan. It is perfectly formulated to exfoliate skin gently and evenly. Removal of dead cells and body oils allows the sunless tanner to penetrate evenly and smoothly into your skin, giving you the best, longest lasting results.
Do not use any moisturizers prior to tanning, except for dry skin areas. (Hands, elbows, knees, feet etc..) Moisturizers, oils, lotions can all prevent proper DHA penetration. This can result in a tan that is lighter, streaky, blotchy, faster fading and off color.
Any products on skin surface can deter absorption. These can include Makeup, deodorants, heavy moisturizing soaps, bar soap film, shaving products, etc.. All should be completely washed from skin before "tanning".
Can I have tan lines?
You may have tan lines, or be "line-free". The choice is entirely up to you, and your tanning technician. Some salons prefer not to have all nude tanning, so ask your technician for their rules.
Clients tan in a varity of attire, including nude, swimwear, topless, or with shorts and a tube top or shirt. Choose which ever option makes you feel the most comfortable. Your are not required to tan nude, though the solution is not harmful to your skin.
If you tan in a bathing suit or under garment, you will have un-tanned, pale skin, where the garment covers. This gives you an impressive "tan-line".
If you prefer to wear a bathing suit or garment, wear a snug fitting, dark old garment. Some of the tanning solution and bronzer, will get onto your garment. Thoug it will normally wash easily out of most fabrics. Nylon, Wool, Lycra, Leather and Spandex can all permanently stain.
After your tanning session, wear dark loose fitting clothing and shoes. Cotton clothing is generally prefered, such as loose sweat pants, shorts, t-shirts etc. Shoes should be loose, to minimize rubbing and sweating, which will negatively affect tan development. Thongd, "flip-flops" and loose sandals will work well.
Before heading home, place a towel over light colored fabric or leather car seats, and arm rests, to prevent bronzer rub off onto materirals. If weather is rainy, carry an umbrella.
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