Frequently Asked Questions
For your convenience, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about spray tanning and sunless tanning products.
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What Makes Brilliant Tan Different From Other Sunless Tanning Products?
Brilliant Tan takes a considered approach to formulating professional spray tan solutions and self-tanning products.
Our formulas are made with carefully selected, high-quality ingredients designed to complement the skin’s natural tone and produce a realistic, natural-looking tan.
Brilliant Tan products are free from parabens, erythrulose, fragrance, alcohol, SLS, sulphates, silicones and oils. They are vegan, cruelty free and made using high-quality certified DHA.
Our professional spray tan solutions are manufactured in small, frequent batches in Cape Town, South Africa, helping to ensure consistent quality and fresh solution.
Is Spray Tanning Safe?
DHA, or dihydroxyacetone, is the tanning ingredient used in most sunless tanning products. It reacts with amino acids in the outermost layer of the skin to temporarily darken its appearance.
DHA is authorised by the US Food and Drug Administration for external application to the skin. It should not be inhaled, ingested or allowed to come into contact with the eyes, lips, nose or other mucous membranes. Appropriate protective measures should therefore be used during spray tanning. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Clients should use suitable eye, nose, mouth and lip protection, and the treatment area should have appropriate ventilation or extraction.
Does a Sunless Tan Protect My Skin From UV Exposure?
No. Unless a product is specifically labelled as containing sunscreen, a sunless tan does not protect the skin against sunburn or harmful UVA and UVB exposure. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Continue using a suitable broad-spectrum sunscreen and follow normal sun-protection measures while wearing a sunless tan.
How Does Spray Tanning Work?
Spray tanning uses a fine mist containing DHA, or dihydroxyacetone, which is applied evenly to the skin using an HVLP spray tan system.
DHA is a colourless sugar that reacts with amino acids in the outermost layer of the skin. Over several hours, this reaction creates a temporary brown colour without exposing the skin to ultraviolet light.
A professional spray tan helps distribute the solution evenly over the body and can create a natural-looking result in a single application.
How Should I Prepare for a Spray Tan?
Shower and exfoliate thoroughly before your appointment. For best results, pay particular attention to dry areas such as the elbows, knees, ankles and feet.
Do not apply moisturiser, deodorant, perfume, body oil or makeup immediately before your spray tan, as these products may interfere with the tanning solution.
Complete shaving or waxing in advance of the appointment and wear loose, dark clothing and open footwear afterwards.
Read our spray tan preparation and aftercare guide for more detailed instructions.
Will a Spray Tan Make Me Look Orange or Streaky?
A carefully selected solution, correct preparation and proper application technique should produce an even, natural-looking result.
Unnatural colour or streaking can occur when too much solution is applied, the wrong DHA strength is selected, the skin is not prepared correctly or the product is applied unevenly.
For best results, select the correct solution strength for your natural skin tone and follow the recommended preparation, application and development instructions.
Can I Have a Spray Tan While Pregnant?
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor, midwife or other qualified healthcare professional before using a spray tan.
The effects of inhaling spray tan mist during pregnancy are not well established. Some health guidance therefore recommends avoiding spray tans during pregnancy, even though self-tanning creams and lotions may be considered differently. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Do not state that spray tanning is approved during pregnancy. A client who has received medical clearance should still use suitable eye, nose, mouth and lip protection and avoid inhaling the mist.
How Long Does a Spray Tan Last?
A spray tan generally lasts approximately five to ten days, although the result varies from person to person.
The colour gradually fades as the outer layer of skin naturally sheds. Daily moisturising, gentle cleansing and avoiding excessive exfoliation, swimming and long hot baths may help extend the life of the tan.
