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Imagine you just spent money on a custom spray tan. You are looking BRONZE and loving it. Now imagine grabbing the wrong soap/lotion and destroying that gorgeous bronze. This tanning tragedy is totally avoidable! Keep reading to learn how to keep your faux glowing bronze going strong!

During your custom spray tan, you will hear me tell you to use “spray tan safe” products to get the most out of your spray tan.  But what does that mean, exactly?  First, let me explain HOW a spray tan works and WHY it's important to use proper products before and after your spray tan. 

HOW DOES A SUNLESS TAN WORK?


The active ingredient in tanning products is called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and is most often derived from sugar beets.  When DHA is applied to the skin it reacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of skin and turns it a golden tan. Since the outermost layer of skin is already dead, it will slough off a little each day.  As it does, the tan goes with it. We want to slow down the natural exfoliating process by keeping skin hydrated and treating it gently.  

Dry skin absorbs more DHA which means darker results.  But if skin is excessively dry it can over-develop and look unnatural.   And the opposite is true if there is a barrier or residue on the skin.  Less DHA will be absorbed, which means less color may develop, leaving lighter streaks on the skin.  Clean, dry and recently exfoliated skin is the best canvas for a spray tan.


WHY DO THE PRODUCTS YOU USE MATTER?

Using the right products helps the tan last longer and look natural as it fades.  The wrong products can strip the tan off quickly and look patchy. Kissed by the Caribbean can give you the best tan ever but it can be ruined in no time if you use the wrong products. 

Spray tan safe products DO NOT CONTAIN mineral oil, petroleum, petrolatum, parabens, sulfates or harsh exfoliators. These ingredients remove the tan quickly and unevenly leaving the skin looking dry and patchy.  Gentle and hydrating ingredients will do the opposite and keep skin looking smooth and supple.

How you prep your skin before your spray tan application directly affects the final results.  Make sure to moisturize daily the week before your spray tan.  Well hydrated skin makes a fabulous canvas for a spray tan.  Dry, scaly skin will result in a patchy tan that will not last long or look natural.

When looking for products to use before and after your spray tan you need to check the ingredients list.  If you see any of the no-no ingredients listed above, put it down. You should also avoid Dove brand products; they are not spray tan friendly. In fact, most drug store brands contain ingredients that harm sunless tans.


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