What Causes the “Spray Tan Smell”? How to Minimize It for a Better Client Experience

Anyone familiar with spray tans, whether you’re a professional artist or a loyal client, has likely experienced or heard about the “spray tan smell.” It’s often described as sweet, musty, or even like “burnt sugar” during the tan’s development stage. While it’s completely normal, it’s also something you can control more effectively with the right approach.

At AYU Sunless, education leads to confidence, but the right products lead to results. This blog explains the actual science behind the spray tan smell and how you can reduce it for your clients using professional tools designed to support both the skin and the tanning outcome.

The Science Behind the Spray Tan Smell

The odor isn’t about poor formulation or cheap ingredients; it’s rooted in basic cosmetic science and the skin’s natural chemistry.

1️⃣ DHA Reacts with Skin

Spray tans rely on Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a simple carbohydrate derived from natural sources. When DHA contacts the amino acids in the skin’s top layer (the stratum corneum), it triggers the Maillard reaction. This reaction darkens the skin, creating the bronzed tan color appearance your clients love.

2️⃣ Volatile Byproducts Cause the Odor

As DHA works, it produces small volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as natural byproducts. These give off a faintly musty or sweet odor, which we associate with spray tanning.

3️⃣ The Odor Peaks During Development

This scent is most noticeable within the first 4–6 hours after application. Once the skin is rinsed and the tan has fully developed, the smell typically fades.

Why Some Clients Notice It More

Not everyone experiences the same level of spray tan odor. Several factors make a difference:

• Skin Chemistry: Individual pH and amino acid profiles influence how DHA reacts.
• Hormones & Sweat: Elevated hormones (such as those associated with pregnancy and menstruation) and perspiration can amplify odor.
• DHA Concentration: Higher DHA percentages deepen color but produce more byproducts.
• Heat & Environment: Humidity and warmth keep skin moist, allowing VOCs to linger longer.

How to Minimize Spray Tan Odor: Pro Tips from AYU Sunless

✅ Choose Low-Odor Formulas

At AYU Sunless, our solutions are formulated without harsh ingredients and with odor-neutralizing technology. We don’t rely on perfumes; we focus on science to keep both our skin and our clients happy.

✅ Use the Right DHA Percentage

Choosing the right DHA strength prevents overprocessing. More DHA doesn’t always mean better color; it often means more odor, especially for clients who are prone to developing odor.

✅ Start with Clean/Balanced Skin

AYU’s Smooth Glow Pre-Tan Prep Spray ensures clean, clear, and balanced skin conditions for even color and a reduced chance of odor intensification.

✅ Keep Clients Cool & Dry

Sweat and heat intensify the Maillard reaction and the smell. Educate your clients on the importance of staying cool during the development process.

✅ Rinse at the Recommended Time

With rapid rinse solutions, clients can wash sooner, limiting odor development. Even classic solutions benefit from a clear rinse-off schedule.

Spray Tan Artists, Elevate Your Service with AYU Smooth Glow: Professional Solutions for Odor Control

At AYU, we have developed a comprehensive support system that professionals need for flawless results. Our Smooth Glow post-tan products are specifically designed to neutralize DHA odor while enhancing the client’s skin comfort and prolonging their tan.

Smooth Glow Moisture Seal

A lightweight, fast-absorbing post-tan spray that locks in hydration, improves skin feel, and eliminates lingering spray tan scent by neutralizing the developing odor.

👉 Recommended After Every Spray Tan Session

Smooth Glow Finishing Powder

A translucent powder that sets the tan, absorbs moisture, reduces post-tan tackiness, and neutralizes odor for a more comfortable development period.

👉 The Final Touch for Professional-Level Comfort and Results.

The AYU Secret for Spray Tan Professionals Who Prioritize Skin Comfort

Your clients may not fully understand the science behind DHA, but they always notice how they feel after a spray tan. Eliminating stickiness and odor builds trust, loyalty, and referrals.

AYU’s Professional Protocol for Odor-Free, Comfortable Results

1. Smooth Glow Pre-Tan Prep Spray
2. Preps the skin by cleansing and balancing pH, ensuring an ideal surface for even DHA reaction and minimizing potential odor.
3. Select the Correct AYU Sunless Spray Tan Solution
4. Choosing the appropriate solution based on your client’s skin type, skin condition, and tanning goals ensures optimal development with a reduced risk of overprocessing and odor intensification. AYU’s range of solutions supports healthy skin while delivering beautiful, natural-looking results.
5. Smooth Glow Moisture Seal
6. Locks in hydration, enhances skin comfort, and helps neutralize residual DHA odors while supporting a smooth, even tan.
7. Smooth Glow Finishing Powder
8. Sets the tan, absorbs moisture, prevents stickiness, and keeps skin feeling fresh and dry during the development period.

Ready to Transform Your Client Experience?

When your clients feel fresh, confident, and comfortable after every session, your reputation grows. That’s why more professionals trust AYU’s Smooth Glow system ( Secret Success), because healthy skin and a flawless tan go hand in hand.

Explore our professional solutions today and experience why so many spray tan artists trust AYU as their secret to consistent, flawless results and happy clients.

👉 [Discover AYU’s Smooth Glow Solutions Now]