FAQs

Airbrush Tanning is the safest, quickest way to achieve a natural hue, sun kissed glow, or deep golden tan. Professional solution is applied to the skin in the form of a micro-mist through HVLP technology. The active agent that results in the tan color is known as Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA is not a stain or dye, but rather a chemical reaction on the outermost layer of the skin, causing a temporary browning effect. The reaction is similar to the browning effect seen when a cut apple slice is exposed to oxygen.

On average Skin Palette’s Airbrush Tan lasts 7-10 days. Hydrated skin increases the longevity of your tan. Although you should NEVER moisturize until AFTER you take your first shower, it is a MUST to moisturize twice daily thereafter. Since the DHA in the tanning solution reacts with the outermost layer of your skin, moisturizing will delay natural exfoliation which in turn will prolong your tan.

*We urge you to check all ingredients in your moisturizers before applying them on top of your Airbrush Tan. Try to stay away from ones containing alcohol. We recommend Evolv’s Daily Glo moisturizer. The formula nourishes skin with botanicals, natural humectants and extends the life of your tan.

Please refer to Skin Palette’s “Tanning Tips” page!

Yes!!! There is no SPF protection from an Airbrush Tan. Always wear SPF and reapply every couple of hours.

Skin Palette has a 100% Never Orange Guarantee. We use the highest quality of solution available. Many other solutions contain beta-carotine or beat extract- giving a red, orange color to the airbrush tan, whereas ours does not. Now, orange skin can be a thing of the past!

DHA is the active ingredient in the most effective sunless tanning products. DHA, also known as Dihydroxyacetone, is a three-carbon sugar that is derived from sugarcane. When DHA is applied to the skin, it causes a chemical reaction with the amino acids in the outermost layer, (dead skin cells), to change its color. This is what happens when UV rays hit the skin as well. Airbrush tanning however does this safely at a quicker/stronger rate without the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays let off by the sun and indoor tanning beds.

Do not exercise or do anything that will make you sweat. Taking precautionary measures will prevent the tan from becoming patchy and streaky.

*After waiting the necessary hours post-tan, we recommend a light shower prior to a workout. Please note: Pat DRY with a towel and do not Rub. Immediately apply moisturizer.

Attire for women during the session is whatever they feel most comfortable with. If airbrush tanning in the buff is preferred, first time clients are required to place a tiny sticker anywhere of their choice. We ask this so that our first time clients can compare their before/after color. Attire (bottom coverage) is required for men and minors during the session. Boxers, swim trunks, or shorts are recommended.

Loose fitting, dark clothing should be worn when leaving Skin Palette. Take note that DHA reacts with wool, nylon, silk and some jewelry. These fabrics and metals should not be worn during or immediately following your tanning session.

Yes, according to the Mayo Clinic, Airbrush Tanning is the safe alternative to indoor tanning and sunless tanning is a practical alternative to sunbathing. DHA works with the top layer of the skin; it is not absorbed through the skin into the body and has no known toxicity. DHA has been used in cosmetic preparations and sunless tanning products since the 1960’s and has been listed with the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) since 1973.

Skin Palette recommends consulting with your physician prior to your airbrush tanning session. Additionally, please send us a request at for a full list of ingredients contained in our Airbrush Tanning solution to take to your doctor.

Since DHA affects the outermost layer of the skin only, the sugar-based chemical is not absorbed into the body and cannot reach the fetus. Indications are that it does not penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, but health care providers advise to wait until the completion of the first trimester. FYI: DHA has been used as a cosmetic ingredient in the United States since 1960 and listed with the FDA since 1973. Furthermore no problems have been reported concerning DHA penetrating the skin or causing problems during pregnancy.