Sunless Tanning FAQs

Fake tanning questions answered by the experts.

Self tanning basics.

Here’s our round up the most common questions people ask us about fake tanning and spray tanning.

1.What is fake tan and how does it work? Fake tan is one of the beauty industries top selling products. This clever invention darkens the skin in the same way that sun exposure tans the skin. However, it does so without any of the harmful effects, like sunburn and skin cancers. Self tanners are made with a special type of carbohydrate called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which combines with the air and the amino acids on the surface of the skin to cause a gradual browning process to occur. The skin is left looking gorgeously golden for days.

2. How long does sunless tan last? Depending on how well you care for your skin, your fake tan can last beyond a week. In most cases your colour will start to gently fade off after about five to seven days as your skin cells regenerate. Although you can’t stop this process you can slightly slow it down by regularly using a mosituriser over your entire body. This will hydrate your skin and prevent your skin cells from flaking away too soon.

3. Why does a spray tan fade? As mentioned above, the skin cells on the top layer of your skin will start to regenerate every few days. This is a perfectly natural occurrence and happens to us all. Fake tan works by colouring this top surface of cells, known as the epidermis. When these cells slough off, your tan will slowly lighten in the same way as a tan in the sun lightens over time. There is no way to keep your tan forever no matter whether you use fake tan, a sunbed or tan in the sun.

4. Is fake tan safe? Self tan is not absorbed into the skin and affects only the top layer of skin cells on your body. It is non-toxic and far safer than opting for a suntan, which can cause skin cancers, premature ageing and burns. However, we do advise that you do a small patch test on your skin if you’re using fake tan for the first time to ensure that you are not sensitive to any of the ingredients.

5. How can I make my tan last longer? Moisturising is the key here. Replenish lost moisture by using a hydrating lotion every day and you’ll find that you’re tan will last that bit longer. One tip is to apply your moisturiser to wet skin straight after a shower as this will lock in plenty of essential water nutrients.