Tanning FAQ

About our solution:

Experience a natural looking tan without the guilt of damaging your skin. Customizable for all skin types, Sjolie Sunless Tanning Solution is made from 100% naturally derived ingredients, organic DHA, and is certified vegan by PETA. It is also free from parabens, erythrulose, and fragrances but if you desire a scent it can be added!  Sjolie is a small family-based business out of California.  

Sjolie Original - generally works for most skin tones, this is olive-based. Currently available in Light, Med, and Dark.

Sjolie Luxe - for those with very golden undertones, this is violet-based. Currently available in Medium.

Sjolie Rapid - In a time crunch and can't wait 6-8 hours to shower? This formula lets you shower within a specific time frame for your desired tan level. Limited formula available, please let me know if this is a formula you would be interested in me having permanently in rotation!

What is an airbrush/spray tan and what can I expect during my service?
Fortunately, there are safer alternatives to tanning beds. Most dermatologists consider spray and airbrush tanning as safe as applying makeup.

The active ingredient for sunless tanning, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is derived from sugar cane and/or sugar beets, which reacts with the skin’s amino acids to produce color. This color develops three to four hours after application, deepens over the next 24 hours, and lasts on average 6-8 days. A session usually takes 30 minutes or less and is performed with a handheld spray unit. Clients undress to their level of comfort; bottoms are required. It is recommended to wear old or dark bathing suits or underwear. Disposable undergarments are also available. There is bronzer in the solution for immediate color and may transfer onto your clothing or sheets. It is water-based and should easily wash out of fabrics. 

If you are thinking about having a spray-tan before a wedding or big event, it is recommended to tan 2-3 days before.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult with your physician before this service.

Prior to your appointment, it is recommended to follow these steps for optimal results:

- Exfoliate your skin at least 12-18 hour before your spray tan. This allows the skin to naturally moisturize itself and removes the build up of dead skin cells.

- Do not use bar soaps, lotions, oils, deodorant, and makeup the day of your appointment. These products can act as a barrier to the tanning ingredients.

- Shower at least 4 hours before your appointment so the open pores from the shower have time to close up to prevent a "speckled" look.

 - Bring dark, loose fitting clothes to your appointment to change in afterwards.

During your appointment:

- You will fill out information regarding your skin history so your therapist has a better understanding of your skin.

- Your therapist will offer eye protection, nose protection, and disposable undergarments if necessary. Although DHA is considered safe, the FDA has approved it for external use only if following these guidelines to protect mucous membranes.

- Your therapist will step out of the room to allow you to undress to your comfort level and will knock before re-entering the room. 

- You will begin by standing in the tanning tent. You will be sprayed with a pre-tanning spray to prep your skin and balance the pH of your skin. Next, a barrier cream will be applied to your hands, feet, and any dry areas. Then, your therapist will spray you with the tanning solution using an airbrush.  Your therapist will give you directions on how to position your body throughout your tan. Once the tan is completed, your therapist will leave the room so you can redress.

Post Appointment:

- Wait to get wet (shower/swim/sweat) a minimum of 6-8 hours. If you shower or bathe before 6 hours, the DHA will not react with your skin proteins and you will have a much lighter tan. Waiting longer will not make your tan darker or last longer. When you do first shower, you may notice the bronzer washing off. Your actual tan will continue to develop over 24 hours after your appointment.

- Avoid exfoliation the first few days of the tan. 

- Apply a moisturizer twice daily.

- Pat dry when getting out of the shower/bath, try not to rub or scrub with your towel.

-You’ll still need to wear sunscreen, as airbrush tanning does not provide protection from the sun.

 

Your preparation before and after your service accounts for the majority of the longevity of your sunless tan.

Happy tanning!

-Christina