Dry Skin and Spray Tans

We have entered the winter months full blast! Dry skin is a natural side effect for most people during these months: flaking, ashy, crackly skin. The key ingredient in spray tans is DHA-dihydroxyacetone. DHA is also very drying to the skin which is why most of my solutions add a ton of moisturizers to help mitigate this effect. However when you couple dry skin and DHA that can spell disaster for your beautiful even spray tan results. FEAR NOT! There are things you can do, as we as your trusty spray tanner can do to help avoid a less than desirable outcome.

This is next day development on dry skin after the soap shower.

Dry skin 3 days after initial spray tan.

Prep is KEY!

It is important to both hydrate (drink lots of fuids) and moisturize prior to your spray tan appointment. I would recommend at least a week prior start to prep skin by exfoliating and using a deep oil based moisturizer leading up to your appointment. The night prior to your appointment just use a regular water based moisturizer, not oil based, to prevent it from acting as a barrier on your skin.

DHA, the key ingredient that tans your skin, interacts with the amino acids in your skin cells on the upper epidermis. So many things can affect the outcome of your tan: hormones, products you use and dry skin. When skin is plump, hydrated, well exfoliated, your spray tan results will be amazing.

Discontinue using drying or acidic serums and cleansers like retinol, alpha hydroxy, glycolic acid, acne products and alcohol based toners. This picture below 👇 demonstrates how using retinol can adversely affect your tan.

Many ladies schedule their spray tan appointments last minute (for a variety of reasons: forgot to schedule, just thought about getting one etc). If you are experiencing dry skin and don’t have time to prep your skin a week prior to your spray tan, then I recommend exfoliating and moisturizing with a water based moisturizer 6-8 hours prior to your spray tan appointment.

We also offer a post hydration spray that will help add a ton of moisturizers and lock in your tan. This solution is a great add on for anyone who has naturally dry, cracking or mature skin! Ask for it at your next tanning appointment!

Our goal is to provide you with a flawless spray tan that looks natural and gorgeous. Please talk to your spray tan tech about any skin issues you are currently experiencing or have had in the past with spray tans. Like most beauty appointments, spray tans require good prep work to get a beautiful result.

With love of all things beauty,

Carrie 🤎