Spray Tanning
Spray tanning is a form of sunless tanning. It involves
spraying a solution of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) uniformly over the body in
order to obtain the perfect tan. Spray tanning is usually performed by
professionals in spas, salons and gymnasiums using specialized
equipment. However, personal tanning solutions are becoming available
and increasingly more popular.
Benefits of Spray Tanning
The first benefit of spray tanning is that it does not involve UV
irradiation at all. There is absolutely no danger
of premature ageing and skin cancer. It is an entirely safe and healthy
way to obtain a tan. The second benefit is that it covers the whole
body. There are no missed areas or tan lines. It is also a rapid
process. A full body tan can be obtained within the hour. The tan can
last 5-6 days.
Spray Tanning Equipment
There is a vast array of spray tanning equipment available on the market
nowadays but they generally fall into two categories:
(I) Spray Tanning Solutions
The following spray tanning solutions are currently available on the
market:
a. Standard DHA solutions in various concentrations (e.g. 8%, 10% and
12%). The greater the concentration, the more the tanning effect.
Various types occur including alcohol-free and fragrance-free solutions
as well as oil-free ones that are not sticky. Hypoallergenic solutions,
that are adapted to people with sensitive skin, are also available.
Products vary a lot in characteristics such as viscosity, adherence to
skin and evenness of coverage. Consumers usually have to try out
different products in order to find what best suits them.
b. Stage tans—provides ultra-dark color to magnify muscle definition
under bright stage lights. This is used by bodybuilders or stage
performers. The advantage is that it can be put in quickly (dries in
seconds) and removed just as rapidly with water and soap. Variants occur
for tango, ballroom and other performance dancers.
c. Tan extenders—solutions to stabilize and prolong the tan from DHA.
(II) Spray Tanning Equipment
The following types of equipment are needed for spray tanning:
a. Automated Spray Booth—this immobile equipment requires the user to
stand in it while a solution of DHA is sprayed uniformly over the body.
The user positions himself in four different positions to get a uniform
tan all over. There are several advantages of the booth:
• A consistent tan
• Very rapid results (within one minute).
• Complete privacy for the client
• It is a long-lasting lifetime equipment that is suitable for
professional spas and salons
b. Spray Tanning Machine—high volume low pressure machines that are
suitable for spas, salons as well as for home-based applications. It can
be used by both professionals as well as home users.
c. Collapsible Spray Cubicles—this portable cubicle offers professional
quality tanning while containing over-sprays that would otherwise have
meant time-consuming cleaning afterwards. It is used principally by
travelling technicians but is also very convenient for home users. Some
spray cubicles come fitted with filters that absorb the over-spray into
disposal tanks. |
