SUNLESS FAQs

Are there any guidelines I should follow during my Sunless session?

The FDA recommends that you wear eye protection, nose filters, lip balm and protective undergarments during your Sunless session.

How do I prepare for my Sunless session?

Arrive showered, shaven, free of make-up, perfume, oil, body sprays, deodorant and moisturizer for optimal results. Bring loose, dark fitting clothing for after your session. Your Sunless session will approximately 10 to 15 minutes with prep and post preparation.

Should I moisturize before a Sunless session?

You should use a moisturizer regularly to keep your skin hydrated and healthy, which will contribute to a more even, natural looking sunless tan. However, it is recommended NOT to apply moisturizers after exfoliating prior to the session and NOT to moisturize until after your post session shower (8 hours)

Why is keeping skin moisturized essential to maintain great Sunless results?

It is important to keep skin moisturized after your Sunless session as dry, flaky skin will slough off faster and color will fade sooner. Sunless tan-extending products with a light self-tanning bronzer helps hydrate skin and maintain even, natural looking color longer.

How long should I wait after my Sunless session before I shower?

It is best to wait at least 8 hours after the sunless tan application before you shower to give the DHA time to fully react with skin proteins.

Can I work out after a Sunless session?

It is best to wait about 8 hours after your Sunless session before partaking in any strenuous activities that may cause perspiration. This will give the DHA time to fully react with skin proteins as well as prevent streaking that could result from excessive perspiration.

How many days will a Sunless tan last?

The longevity of a Sunless tan depends on the skin’s natural exfoliation process and on the skin regimen followed before and after application. On average, a sunless tan will last 5-7 days. The “life span” of a Sunless tan also depends on your skin’s natural exfoliation. The faster your skin regenerates, the faster the sunless tan will fade. The tan created by the DHA and Erythrulose affects only the top layer of the skin and will begin to fade after 4 to 5 days as the skin naturally begins to exfoliate.

How frequently do you recommend going in for a Sunless session? Can I do it several days in a row?

The frequency of Sunless tanning application depends on your skin cell turn over and preference of color intensity. People with quick cell turn-overs may want to do a Sunless session every 3-4 days to keep color fresh, while others may need to apply only once every 7-10 days.

Can I do a Sunless session in addition to a tanning bed?

Absolutely! In fact, we recommend it. Sunless tanning results are phenomenal over a nice base tan. It is the best way to obtain a fast, instant and natural tan. At The Tanning Zone we refer to this process as a “Double Dip.” Please ask our Tanning Professional for details on our Double Dip process.

Will the solution from the Sunless come off on my clothes?

Some of the bronze “cosmetic tint” color may rub off on clothing or bed sheets. This is most likely to happen when you get dressed immediately after tanning. To minimize the chance of the tint transferring to clothing, we recommend that you wear loose-fitting, darker clothes after your Sunless session. The Cosmetic tint is water-soluble. Therefore, in most cases, the color will come out of clothing in the wash.

Will my skin look orange or streaky after a Sunless session?

Our Sunless equipment has three different solutions made specifically to suit a wide range of client skin tones. It is important to pick the formula that is right for you. If it is too dark for your skin tone you are more likely to be unsatisfied with the results. Our solution is also made with natural ingredients to keep your skin nourished and help it absorb the solution for even and natural color. All of our Tanning Professionals are trained to help you select the right solution to achieve the most natural tan possible.

Also, be sure to prepare for your session with proper moisturizing and exfoliation and to wait at least 8 hours before showering. Following all prep and post session instructions, in combination with our equipment’s revolutionary airbrush technology will ensure that your sunless tanning coverage is even, smooth, and perfect every time.

PRE AND POST SUNLESS CARE

SUNLESS CARE

Once you contact The Tanning Zone there are a number of different steps you must follow in order to achieve a natural, flawless looking tan and have a wonderful experience. Preparing for your spray tan can be the deciding factor in your results so make sure you read all the steps below

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

To ensure even coverage and longer lasting results, you need to turn your skin into a perfectly polished canvas before you get your spray tan. Shower, shave and wax at least 24 hours before your appointment. Exfoliate your entire body to remove any dry skin or dirt. Your nails and toenails will be wiped down at the end of your spray tan, but having your nails polished prevents them from getting stained (If you have acrylic nails or a gel manicure on before your spray tan appointment, the solution will NOT ruin your nails). Skin should be free of deodorant, sweat, fragrances, lotions, and makeup (eyeliner, mascara, and eye shadow is OK), and it should be clean and dry at the time of your appointment.

THE SPRAY TAN PROCESS

A Tanning Zone technician will begin your appointment with a quick color consultation to determine the perfect solution for your skin tone, based on your personal preference and skin type. Pull your hair back to keep it out of the way while we spray you. We will supply you with a disposable hair cap as well to protect your hair from the solution. You will be given a barrier cream to apply to your hands, feet, nails and cuticles to prevent any unwanted color on those porous areas. During your spray tan you may wear a dark colored bathing suit, underwear, thong, strapless bra, or whatever you feel comfortable in. You may go topless if you choose. Bottoms are required. We also can provide disposable undergarments. Remember whatever you chose to wear will be where you have a tan line. Our technicians have seen it all and still remain professional! Remove all jewelry. Men must wear shorts, boxers, underwear, or bathing suit.

SUNLESS AFTER CARE

After your spray tan you must wear dark, loose fitting clothing. Refrain from wearing any tight clothing like jeans, socks, bra, etc. until after your first shower. Leather, silk, or satin is a no-no! If the spray tan formula rubs off on your clothing, sheets, or blankets, this usually can be washed out in the normal wash. Bare in mind, any material has the potential to stain. Wait at least 8 hours before you bathe/shower. Avoid any activities that will cause perspiration, swimming, moisturizing your skin, or applying makeup until after your first shower. Wash only the palms of your hands carefully or with a wet cloth until your first shower. Don’t worry if you see color washing off of your skin during your first shower, this is just a cosmetic bronzer and doesn’t affect the spray tan. There are many soaps that can be found at the drug store that can cause streaking, patchiness, fading, and can even change the color of your spray tan. Ask us for more information on which soaps are bad for your tan. These are made specifically for your spray tan and can help extend your results! Always pat your skin dry after you bathe, shower, swim, etc. Limit exfoliating, shaving, and waxing your skin as much as possible.

MAINTAIN YOUR SUNLESS TAN

It is extremely important that you moisturize daily and use the proper skin care products to extend the life of your tan. We highly recommend our Hempz, Norvell, and other exclusive products made for your spray tan. Our skin care products are at a lower-cost than many of our competitor’s prices! If you would like to remove your spray tan from areas of the body like palms of hands, or feet try using a pumice stone, lemon juice, and/or baking soda. Last but not least, be sure to tag us in your photos on Instagram (selfies, prom, with friends, weddings, vacation, etc.) @the_tanning_zone_hamilton and use our hashtag #thetanningzone. If you let us know you tagged yourself in a photo, you will receive $5 your next spray tan!

THINGS TO AVOID AFTER SUNLESS

Here is a broad list of things that can affect the outcome of your spray tan: birth control pills/hormone therapy, pregnancy, menstruation, thyroid medication, antibiotics, chemotherapy, alcohol based skin care products, waxing/shaving, bar soap (especially DOVE soap products), skin brightening products, body hair bleach, long hot baths, chlorinated swimming pools, salt water, exfoliating/loofahs/scrub brushes, anti-acne products, purple/color toning shampoos, Alpha/Beta Hydroxy Acids, Retin-A products.