Spray Tan: Bronzy Color Without the Risk

You know that sunbathing without protection is dangerous, as it increases your risk of developing skin cancer. But there’s a safe alternative. Despite what you may have heard, a sunless spray tan is a safe and effective way to get the bronzy look you want.

At Skinworks Dermatology, with three New York City locations, dermatologist Javier Zelaya, MD, and our team are proud to offer a full range of medical and medspa services, including spray tans. Here’s what you need to know about spray tanning to see if it’s right for you.

Is spray tanning safe? 

Topical sunless tanning products are safe when you use them as directed or when applied by a skin care or medical professional.

At Skinworks Dermatology, we use Bronze Biologic™ tanning solutions, which uses botanical ingredients to give you a natural-looking tan. Among those ingredients is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is derived from beet sugar extracts and is what gives you the bronzy look.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DHA for external application on your skin. Used as directed, DHA hasn’t been shown to pose any health risks.

The FDA cautions, however, that DHA shouldn’t be applied to areas covered by mucous membranes, including your lips, nose, or around your eyes, since the risks are unknown.

Because you’re having the tan applied in our office by trained professionals, we take extra care to ensure that the tanning product doesn’t get into these sensitive areas. 

What to know about your tanning appointment

Your tanning appointment is quick and convenient, and it usually lasts about a half-hour. First, you undress and remove your jewelry and makeup. You’re provided a disposable head covering and thong, and we ensure you don’t get spray tan on the soles of your feet.

The spray tan process itself typically takes about five minutes. We spray your body with a light mist that covers all of the areas you’d like to have tanned. As the DHA reacts to your skin, you should notice a natural-looking tan almost immediately. 

Your tan typically lasts 7-10 days, but you can take some steps to make your spray tan last longer. Shower and exfoliate your skin on the day of your appointment. Shave 12 hours before your appointment, or wax two days before.

After the procedure, wear loose-fitting clothes, avoid strenuous activity, and avoid bathing or showering for 24 hours. 

For more information on spray tanning, call the Skinworks Dermatology office nearest you or request an appointment online.