Blog Layout

As summer approaches, I get more requests from clients that want to receive the darkest possible spray tan. Even though it’s the beginning of June, this sends shivers down my spine. I always want to accommodate my customers but know that applying a darker shade will not necessarily give the desired result.

Remember the goal of a spray tan is to look pretty and natural. I always try to advise clients that a darker color of solution may not look natural on certain skin tones.  


Spray Tan History

When spray tanning was first introduced, solutions were manufactured without different base colors.  The quality of the end results were not great.  As spray tanning grew in popularity over the years and more time and money was spent on advancing the formula of solutions, base colors were discovered.



Green – The First Base Color


The first base color that was released was green.  It was marketed that a green base solution would counteract an orange result because of  the “color wheel theory”. . . unfortunately it's not how the color wheel works with spray tanning because of the different skin tones/undertones.

Exactly How Does a Spray Tan Work?


The primary ingredient in all spray tan solutions is DHA (Dihydroxyacetone).  DHA used on its own will likely develop into an orange or undesired result.   The base of the solution is used to neutralize/flatten the undertone of the skin in preparation for the DHA to enhance and deepen the color to a natural brown color.  The depth of the result will vary from light to dark depending on the amount of DHA% and the time left on the skin.  

All sunless solutions contain a certain percentage of DHA. A higher percentage of DHA will produce a deeper result.  In addition, the more DHA concentration in the solution the more the color changes from a golden brown to a red brown. Using too high a percent of DHA on lighter skin will produce an unnatural color and have patchy fading.


What’s the deal with Bronzers?

Bronzers are a temporary color added to the solution to assist the technician with the application process.  It also gives a pop of color for the client to see while the DHA develops.  This is a short-term coloring, similar to certain types of makeup that wash off immediately.  It is not representative of the final color.  

When you get a sunless tan no matter what color is used, you WILL look tan. The key is to choose a shade that will look best for your skin tone and fade in a natural looking way



A woman in a white dress is standing on a beach
By kissedbythecaribbean July 6, 2024
Are Spray Tans Safe? Debunking Common Myths
A woman in a white bikini and sunglasses is standing in front of a blue wall.
By Kissed By The Caribbean July 5, 2024
THE MYTH OF SHAVING, PORES AND SPRAY TANNING: Expert Tips for Flawless Skin Prep and Maintenance
By kissedbythecaribbean April 2, 2023
Mastering the Art of Spray Tanning: The Ultimate Do's and Don'ts Guide
girl taking a shower before a spray tan.
By kissedbythecaribbean February 2, 2023
Get the inside scoop on whether it's okay to shave the same day as a spray tan. Learn about the factors to consider and tips for a flawless, long-lasting spray tan.
think image
By Kissed By The Caribbean January 2, 2023
Mobile Spray Tanning: A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Your Appointment
By Kissed By The Caribbean December 2, 2022
The Secrets to a Flawless Spray Tan
By Kissed By The Caribbean November 1, 2022
Kissed by the Caribbean Mobile Spray Tanning always recommends limiting the number of times you shave post-spray tan but there comes a time when you absolutely have to, so I have put together a short tip list to help you avoid removing your spray tan.
Tanning for men
By Kissed By The Caribbean October 1, 2022
The tanning trend has become just as popular among men as it is among women. What has fueled this craze further is the images of bronzed, tanned men in billboards, movies, and TV shows.
By Kissed By The Caribbean August 1, 2022
Sellers of spray tanning equipment make the marketing claim that a spray tan can be done in two minutes with an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray tan system, the dominant choice in spray tan equipment today. That’s a bit rushed. A quality result is more important than to apply the spray tan as quickly as possible. The actual application can be done in 5 minutes. Some technicians will do two spray passes versus one, which will take a little longer. An allowance for drying time, 5 to 10 minutes, needs to be added as well. Drying time can be shortened by using direct air from the air hose or with a hair dryer.
By Kissed By The Caribbean July 1, 2022
Sunburn! Oh No, Will This Affect My Spray Tan?
More Posts
Share by: