Do I really need indoor tanning lotion?

Using an indoor tanning lotion is not required, however in order to achieve the best results it is highly recommended. Lotions specially formulated for indoor tanning increase the efficiency of the tanning process, speed up the absorption of UVA & UVB, allow better tanning results in a shorter time, provide needed moisture and nutrients to your skin, and extend the life of your tan. You’ve obviously chosen to tan at a professional salon to achieve professional results, make sure to get your money’s worth!
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Do tanning products have a “shelf life”?

Tanning products are not required to be marked with an expiration date; however the life of your products will greatly depend on the preservatives used in the lotion and the temperature your products are exposed to. The higher level of preservatives the longer it will last, however preservatives don’t guarantee the quality or effectiveness of the product. Tanning products can withstand some temperature fluctuation, but their integrity is challenged when subjected to extreme temperatures.
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Can I use products made for outdoor tanning?

NO. Outdoor tanning lotions and other products not specifically formulated for indoor tanning (ex. baby oil) ruin tanning acrylics and in fact do not aid in the tanning process.
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What is bronzer?

WHAT they are: Bronzers supplement a tan with a light self-tanner that delivers color in 2 to 4 hours while a natural tan develops. They help deliver darker, more immediate tanning results.

HOW they work: The principle tanning agent used in all bronzers is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This ingredient creates a tanned appearance by developing a brown color on the surface of the skin. The action of DHA is limited to the upper layer of the skin and involves a reaction between DHA and skin proteins that produces brown compounds. The development of color takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours and the intensity of color is dependent upon the DHA concentration in the product as well as each tanner’s individual skin characteristics. The color developed by the DHA usually lasts 3 to 5 days and begins to fade as the top layer of the skin naturally exfoliates.

HOW they should be used: Because bronzers only affect the top most layer of the skin, it is best if skin is freshly exfoliated and moisturized prior to applying a product with a bronzer. If skin is dry or flaky, the tanner may experience “spotty” looking results after a day or two. To create even results, tanning products with bronzers should be applied to the skin using a circular motion prior to tanning; this will prevent streaking which is caused by uneven application. Hands should be washed or wiped immediately after application. For best results, a tanner should wait to bathe for 2 to 4 hours after applying a bronzer.
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What is a HOT or TINGLE lotion?

Hot lotions (aka Tingle or Sizzle) are lotions specially formulated to stimulate blood circulation in the top layer of your skin. Your skin needs 3 components to tan, UVA, UVB, and oxygen. Increasing the circulation increases the oxygen flow to the skin and therefore can help your skin tan more quickly. Use of these lotions should be limited to more experienced tanners.
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