Science Behind How Sunless Solution Works

 

The compositions of sunless tanning solutions are generally mixtures which produce a natural brown "Tan color" to the outer layer of the skin. Sunless tanning solutions usually consist of two main active ingredients, Dihydroxyacetone and Erythrulose. They both work on the same principle, reacting with the free amino groups of the amino acid, peptides and proteins from the upper most layer of the stratum corneum.

This reaction is known as the Maillard reaction also known as "nonenzymematic browning". It can be influenced by several factors such as skin type, thickness, medications and dryness of the skin. The total composition of the sunless tanning solution greatly influences consistency, hue, intensity and substantivity of the final tan. To optimize this reaction certain conditions need to be met. As far as skin condition is concerned, it is important that exfoliation is carried out to remove loose/dead skin from the surface.

The reaction is also affected by pH both on the skin and in the product itself. The development of the color takes anywhere from 2-4 hours, The intensity of the color is dependent on the formulation concentration of the Dihydroxyacetone and Erythrulose in the product.

How to Prepare for the Sunless Tanning Session

To achieve a beautiful sunless tan color, you must follow the steps and instructions provided by your air brush technician.

Exfoliate: Proper exfoliation is a key to achieving flawless tan. To exfoliate properly we recommend using sugar scrubs or Onyx Primer Body Reveal Exfoliating Lotion in an overlapping circular motion. Don’t over scrub, but pay special attention to dry skin like elbows, knees and hands and feet. Exfoliate the night before your session.

At the time of your sunless session your skin should be dry, clean and free of moisturizer, deodorant and make up.

Your Sunless Technician will ask you to apply a heavy cream lightly on your elbows, knees, hands and feet to slow down the solution penetration on those areas. Do not apply moisturizer anywhere until talking with sunless tech. We recommend Onyx’s After Tan for this.

The next step depends on which method you are using for your sunless session. Onyx Sunless Tanning Solution Original and Onyx Premium Lotion based Spray Solution works best with all the applications.

If using a spray booth follow the instruction given by salon technician.

If you choose air brush or HVLP, then a professional airbrush technician will spray. Follow her instructions on what to wear for your session during the treatment.

What to expect after sunless tanning session:

Once your session ends, wear loose fitting clothes, do not shower, swim or exercise for at least 6 to 8 hours.

After your first shower you will see some color washing off, don’t worry because this is only the cosmetic bronzer/color guide that gave the instant color washing off. After shower you will have beautiful sun kissed tan.

Moisturize your skin after shower with Onyx After Tan Moisturizer and make a habit of it using every day after shower, it helps to lock in the moisture and keeps the skin hydrated. If your skin is very dry, Onyx After Tan works great as it is not greasy and absorbs well.