Airbrush Tanning


Airbrush tanning is a rapidly growing form of sunless tanning. Many people either live in areas that lack sun, or have become aware of the dangers of skin damage and the increased risk of skin cancer that are associated with excessive exposure to UV sun rays. With this in mind, people seeking flattering tans for special events or regular daily life are increasingly turning to airbrush tanning. Airbrush tanning is a safe alternative to get the golden glow you want, without messy lotions and time consuming tanning booths.

How Airbrush Tanning Works

DHA (dihydroxyacetone) is the most effective chemical used in sunless tanning products. It interacts with dead skin cells to produce that bronzed look associated with a relaxing trip to the beach. DHA incites a chemical reaction, and does not dye, stain, or paint the skin. If the same concentration and application levels are used, DHA will produce the same skin results and tan levels. It can be repeatedly applied to keep and darken the tan. Newer products incorporate immediate skin bronzers to avoid the orange skin colors that occurred with older sprays.

While DHA is used in lotions, gels, and creams, it is hard to apply a uniform coating with those products. By using specialized airbrush equipment, a professional technician can use a compressor and spray gun device to apply a uniform coating. Some salons also use enclosed booths, similar to a small shower stall, which evenly sprays the tanning solution over the body. Applications take under ten minutes, and tanning hands and feet aren't problematic in the way creams and lotions can be. Airbrush tanning does not leave streaks, and is more consistent and reliable than home-based products. The tan usually lasts from 5-10 days.

Airbrush Tanning Safety

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, DHA is safe for external application. The chemical reaction it induces is called a Malliard reaction, and this is the same chemical reaction that gives toast its brown hue and colors products like chocolate and coffee. DHA is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and it has been approved for external use as a color additive for over 20 years. No adverse reactions have been reported, aside from minor skin irritations on people found to be allergic. Adverse reactions are easy to treat, and are usually eliminated with showering. While DHA is considered safe for external application, it should not be used internally.

Care should be taken to avoid spraying the ears, eyes, nose, and mouth, and the FDA recommends protective measures for these areas. It should also not be inhaled or ingested. Some states, like Oregon, require airbrush tanning to be performed by a licensed esthetician.

It should be noted that sunless tanning is not a real suntan, and offers as protection against UV sun rays.

By Doug Vanisky           


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