Brief guide to the science of spray tanning

Spray tanning is a process that involves the application of a solution containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to the skin to produce a tanning effect. DHA is a colorless sugar that reacts with the amino acids in the upper layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, to produce a darkening effect. This reaction is known as the Maillard reaction, which is the same reaction that causes food to brown when exposed to heat.

When DHA is applied to the skin, it reacts with the amino acids in the epidermis to form melanoidins, which are pigments that give the skin its tan color. The reaction typically takes about 2-4 hours to complete, and the final color will develop over the next 24 hours. The color of the tan will depend on the concentration of DHA in the solution, the individual's skin type, and the pH of the skin.

The color of the tan produced by DHA is similar to a natural tan, but it is not UV-induced. Unlike a natural tan, which is caused by the production of melanin in response to UV radiation, the color produced by DHA is only present on the surface of the skin and does not provide any protection against UV radiation.

The DHA in spray tanning solutions can come in different forms such as solution, mist, lotion, or gel. The solution is applied using a spray gun or a handheld sprayer. The mist is applied using an airbrush, and the lotion or gel is applied with the hands.

In conclusion, spray tanning is a process that uses the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to produce a tanning effect on the skin. DHA reacts with the amino acids in the upper layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, to produce a darkening effect known as the Maillard reaction. The final color of the tan will depend on the concentration of DHA in the solution, the individual's skin type, and the pH of the skin. However, it's important to remember that the color produced by DHA is not UV-induced and does not provide any protection against UV radiation.