How To Avoid An Orange Spray Tan
Ahh yes, the infamous orange spray tan. You hear about them and you may have even had one. They are scary and COMPLETELY unnecessary! In this article, I am going to give you everything you need to know to avoid an orange spray tan.
After reading you will be flush with confidence and ready to get your fake tan on! In the end, I will give you a couple of resources you can take advantage of to get that perfect spray tan.
JUST SO YOU KNOW – I have been in the tanning industry since 1999 and have been spray tanning since 2011. I am Norvell Master Certified and provide the absolute best custom spray tan you can get. I talk about my new “era” of tanning here. ▶ New Era
Norvell Certified Master Technician & Entrepreneur
I have been in management for the biggest tanning salon chain and have owned my own UV bed tanning salon. Currently, I own and operate Custom Tanz-Sunless Studio in St. Charles, Missouri. We are sunless experts and are passionate about the sunless industry and giving a best-in-class client experience,....but anywhosers, let’s move on.
Do you live in the greater St. Louis, St. Charles, St.Peters, Weldon Springs, O’fallon, Wentzville, Maryland Heights or Chesterfield Missouri area and want to book a custom spray tan?
If the answer is YES then you came to the right spot! Click the button below to either call, text or book your near-luxury spray tan experience.
To better understand how a spray tan can go bad and go orange I think its important and even helpful to explain a bit how your skin reacts to spray tan solutions. This first section will not be comprehensive by any means, but should suffice as a beginning foundation.
Understanding How Spray Tans Work
There are different types of spray tans and solutions (1 hour rapid, clear DHA only solution, competition dark, at home self tanning lotions and many many others), but for the sake of keeping it easy and general I will mostly talk about a basic spray tan.
DHA or DiHydroxyAcetone
When you step into the tent or extraction unit to get your spray tan, or airbrush tan as it is sometimes referred to, you will be sprayed with a handheld spray gun. The spray technician will be applying the solution directly on your skin.
Now,...you will be able to see color going directly on your skin,..like you're being painted! This is not the DHA. It is a cosmetic bronzer, a “body make-up” if you will. This gives you an immediate color and allows the spray tan tech to see how the tan is going on,...like a guide. Where is the DHA you ask? It is mixed into the solution and bronzers. DHA is a colorless and odorless chemical approved by the FDA in 1977.
DHA reacts with the amino acids on the skins surface. It takes a full 24 hours for the DHA to fully darken, giving you that bronzed look.
So after the cosmetic bronzers have been washed off in 8-12 hours after your spray, the DHA will have had time to react and develop leaving your skin tanned. This “browning” process is called the Mail-lard reaction. Its very similar to how an apple bruises after a day or two of oxidation. It is the production of melanoidins that cause the appearance of the tan. Magical huh!?!?
Your Skin
The largest organ of your body is your skin. It contains the protective outer layer that shields your inside organs from the elements as well as viruses and germs. Heat control, sensation, and vitamin D production are all dependent on the skin.
The epidermis and dermis are the two layers of the skin. Keratinocytes, which are dead, adult skin cells, make up the stratum corneum. These cells are shed often and are replaced by cells from the epidermis' lower layers.
The spray tan solution is sprayed directly on the stratum corneum (the outer skin layer) and the cosmetic bronzers sink in a bit more, but the DHA actually penetrates into the stratum of amino acids. These amino acids are what react with the DHA.
A well-balanced PH on the skin as well as high-quality DHA and bronzers, with a trained and certified professional applying it, will eliminate any chance of you getting an orange tan. It will look deep and natural. To learn more about how to take care of your skin click here. ▶ 5 Habits You Should Stop For Better Skincare
Solutions: Cosmetic Bronzers
Bronzer is the component that gives a client an immediate tan before the DHA in the solution has a chance to start tanning their skin. It is very similar to bronzers that are in make-up. It acts as a guide for the professional spraying and illustrates what the fully processed tan will look like in 24 hours.
So when the bronzers are washed off...wha lah!,...a beautifully developed tan is underneath.
Equipment
Spray tan guns come in plastic, aluminum, and combinations of materials. They come in many different models, colors, manufacturers. The possibilities are mind-numbing. But remember that there is much more to equipment than just a gun.
The very basic components of spray tan equipment are:
Compressor
Hand-held gun
Hose
There are many different types of compressors (LVLP, HVLP, air pump, and airbrush).
Let’s talk about airbrush for a minute. So, airbrush systems are the small “pen” like spray guns that were used in the early days of spray tanning.
They took FOREVER to spray someone and used way too much solution. Airbrush pens are still used today for contouring and special attention areas. Make-up applications using the pen gun are popular too.
But for most custom spray tans today the most common setup you will see is the larger handheld gun and an HVLP compressor.
Other very important pieces of equipment must be considered for a high quality spray tan. That is an extraction system. Spray tan extractor fans clean the air by sucking the over spray into a filter, keeping it out of your eyes and lungs and preventing you from breathing the tanning solution.
Extractor fans also gather undesired dirt and allergens from the surroundings, ensuring that both staff and consumers are healthy. Filters for spray tan extractors are either disposable or washable. Disposable filters are used to collect microscopic particles and must be replaced every few months.
These extraction systems can be as simple as a tent and fan or more involved with a multi fan arena system. Now these may or may not prevent you from turning orange but it sure does make for a much more safe and comfortable experience.
The conclusion and key takeaway for equipment is quality. High quality pieces as well as high quality maintenance will insure the equipment is in working order and clean. A quality tan with no orange effects is virtually guaranteed.
Now the last, but MOST IMPORTANT PART OF NO ORANGE SPRAY TANS IS -
The Spray Tan Technician
A qualified and experienced spray tech/artist is the most important element to preventing getting an orange tan. They are the first line of defense to make sure everything we discussed above is understood and being professionally implemented:
The right amount of DHA and bronzer.
Making sure your skin is prepped and ready.
Knowing how to apply the tan according to your skin type.
Understanding their solutions and equipment at a high level.
Able to educate you on follow-up and post tan education.
This is not an exhaustive list but definitely hits the important points to understanding how a spray tan works and how understanding and implementing these factors can steer you clear of the orange tan.
I am a Norvell Master Certified Technician and have over 10 years experience spray tanning. I use only Norvell products and equipment. They are the best at sunless. Well, how can I make such a bold statement you ask? Because I have never tanned someone orange!
What Causes da Orange!
Not Using Professional Products Or Services
The chemical in a spray tan solution that darkens your skin is dihydroxyacetone (or DHA for short). When your skin absorbs too much DHA (also known as DHA oversaturation), it begins to turn orange. If your skin is not having the right solution sprayed on, that can make your skin orange. Out of date products or solutions is a definite no no.
Utilizing a spray tanner or salon technician that isn't adequately qualified, informed, or confident in the goods they're using. Alternatively, they may select a color that is far too dark for your skin tone. Many novice spray tan technicians will just give the customer what they want without explaining how the procedure works. This is especially true for first-time tanners. I personally begin with a light application to ensure that the solution is compatible with their skin tones, and we may always go darker the next time we meet.
Color And Darkness Should Be Guided By Skin Tones
The shade you want to go is the most crucial decision to make while having a spray tan. There are many different spray tan shades available, but only a handful will match your skin tone. Skin types are very important to understand when getting a spray tan. The one applying the spray tan should definitely understand skin types for sure!
A helpful tool for understanding skin types is the Fitzpatrick Scale. In 1975, the Fitzpatrick Skin-Type Chart was created to identify various skin types. This categorization is based on the quantity of pigment on your skin as well as the texture of your skin.
Skin Type I:
Freckles and extremely pale or reddish hair are common characteristics of people with this skin type. When exposed to even modest levels of UV light, this skin is prone to burning.
Skin Type II:
People with this skin type are likewise more likely to become sunburned, however they tan considerably more easily than those with skin type I. This skin type contains less freckles than type I, and natural hair colors range from light brown to blonde and red. Spray tan color advice: in most cases, a light color spray tan or self-tanner lotion will suffice. You can use a medium spray tan if your natural tan appears to be somewhat darker.
Skin Type III:
When exposed to sunlight, this skin type tans quickly and does not appear to burn as easily as skin types I and II. Although this is not always the case, people with this skin tone frequently have dark hair and brown eyes.
Skin Type IV:
When exposed to a lot of sunshine, this skin type will get a dark tan. Persons of Mediterranean, Southern European, Latino, and Asian descent frequently have skin type 4, despite the fact that skin types vary greatly among people of similar origin.
Skin Type V:
This type of skin can darken even more when exposed to continuous periods of sunshine, despite the fact that it is already a dark hue. If you have this type of skin, you will not burn as readily as those with the other skin types.
Skin Type VI:
In moderate sun exposure, this type of skin is the least prone to burn. These are exceptionally dark or black skin types.
When you have a skin type of 1 or 2 you cannot use a lot of bronzer or DHA. The spray tan will look very unnatural and possibly turn orange. Ewww!
As you go up the Fitzpatrick scale to higher skin types the more spray tan you can apply. It sounds counter intuitive but the darker your skin the more bronzer and DHA you can apply. This applies to UV exposure as well. The darker your skin the longer exposure times you can do.
So just remember when you go in for your spray tan, your spray tan technician will advise you on the right solution and darkness. Heed their advice and STOP THE ORANGE!!
6 Ways To Do The Proper Pre-Tan Routine
Read and follow these pre-tan directions! They are GOLD!
There is a lot of information out there about what to do before you get a pray tan and a lot of it is absolutely correct! It is simple, almost to simple, but it is vital to getting a great spray tan and not having it be orange.
1. Exfoliate
Thoroughly exfoliate your entire body, preferably with an exfoliating glove or brush. Pay special attention to dry areas like elbows, feet and knees. Proper exfoliation will prep the skin for a smooth and flawless tan.
2. Shower and Soaps
It is preferred that you try to shower and exfoliate 24 hours before your tan appointment. Avoid using any bar soaps (especially Dove!). Gel soaps are preferred.
3. Shave and Wax
Wax any unwanted hair with a razor that lacks a moisture strip. It should be a new razor as well. Waxing should be done 48 hours prior to your tan.
4. Spa Services
Do any spa services at least 24 hours prior to your spray tan. These are services like mani's, pedi's, facials, and waxing. Your skin can become irritated during these services and stay irritated for a day afterward. Your skin needs to be clean, clear, and ready for a spray tan.
Here’s a great article on teeth whitening. ▶ Is Bleaching the Best Method of Home Teeth Whitening?
5. Day of Tan-NO BARRIERS
Do not apply any lotions, oils, deodorant (yes I said deodorant), or perfumes. All of these can create a barrier on the skin so the tan will not adhere to your skin. Thin of it the same way that you think of a piece of furniture that you are going to paint. How do you prepare a wooden chair for painting? You “exfoliate” it by sanding off all the old paint. Then you make sure it stays dry and free of any other materials getting on it. When it comes time to paint the chair, it is stripped clean and clear and ready to go.
6. Clothing
Wear dark, loose-fitting clothing. Open-toed sandals are preferred for shoes. Put a towel on your car seat to prevent bronzer transfer.
What Is the Best Spray Tan Frequency?..or... How Long Does A Spray Tan Last?
Spray tans can last up to a week on average. Every week, the top layer of the skin is naturally exfoliated. The tan fades as the skin naturally exfoliates. Your tan may fade faster if you exercise or swim frequently. Keeping your skin healthy and hydrated is the key to making your tan last as long as possible.
It is best that you completely clear your skin of all old bronzer and DHA before you go in for another spray. Remember,... you want a clear and clean “base” to spray on. Spraying on top of old tan can turn orange! So,...don't do it!
How To Get A Brown Tan Instead Of Orange
Choosing the right hue for your skin is perhaps the most crucial part of acquiring a brown tan instead of an orange one. However, we cannot overlook the necessity of preparation and upkeep.
How To Fix Orange Spray Tan
So there is a lot of information out there on how to fix a spray tan once it’s on your body. I've seen putting baby oil and coconut oil on it and taking a warm bath to lift it off. I've seen that you should use a gentle exfoliate to lift off the orange. These methods have not worked for me but that doesn't mean that they won’t work for you.
Your body is very distinct and different from everyone else. Everybody else’s body is different from yours, so what works with one person may not work for another and vice-versa. But generally speaking once that orange spray tan is on your body, the only way to fix it is to get it off and re-spray. That's why it is vital to ensure you are getting a spray tan service by a certified and experienced spray tan technician.
I understand why some suggest applying baby oil or coconut oil or gently exfoliating will help hide an orange tan. Those activities will remove the spray tan. That's why we say before a spray tan not to use oils and don't exfoliate after you get a spray tan,...cause it takes the tan off. But taking off JUST the orange is tough,…if not impossible. The best it’s going to do is hide the orange from a distance in the right lighting.
The best thing to do is make sure you DONT get an orange tan in the FIRST PLACE by:
Preparing your skin correctly before your appointment.
Using only the best products and equipment.
Having only a Master Certified and experienced spray tan technician apply your tan.
Will My Spray Tan Look Better After I Shower?
Because the spray tan solution contains a cosmetic bronzer that rinses out during your first shower (8-10 hours after your session), your tan will be darker before you take your first shower. Don't panic if you see your tan fading; it's the cosmetic bronzer, not your spray tan.
Showering too soon after a spray tan is one of the most typical blunders. The first shower following a spray tan determines how long the tan will persist and how even the tone will be.
What should you do the first time you shower after a spray tan? The first shower you take should be quick and sweet. Rinse carefully under warm water for no more than 3 minutes. Stay in the shower only until the golden hue has faded and the water is clear. If you stay in the shower for too long, your tan will fade and you'll end up with streaks and blotches.
You won't be able to take a lengthy, hot, soapy shower. The tan will be torn away from the skin as a result of this. Warm water and an oil-free body wash that is suitable for spray-tanned skin should be used. Avoid scrubbing your skin too hard. There's no need to scrape or exfoliate your skin. Instead, gently wipe away the surface bronzer and solution with the back of your palm and an oil-free wash. Allow the water to flow over your skin until it runs clean if the spray tan contains a bronzer.
So to make along story short,...YES your spray tan will look tons better after your first shower.
So there you have it folks, how to get a beautiful spray tan and not have it orange. The important things to take into consideration is the person who actually does the spray. If they are experienced and know what they are doing and guarantee their work, then you will be just fine.
Do you live in the greater St. Louis, St. Charles, St.Peters, Weldon Springs, O’fallon, Wentzville, Maryland Heights or Chesterfield Missouri area and want to book a custom spray tan?
If the answer is YES then you came to the right spot! Click the button below to either call, text or book your near-luxury spray tan experience.