FAQs

Bronzers, also known as color guides, provide an instant tan-like appearance and help ensure smooth, even application in sunless tanning products. They serve as a visual aid, allowing spray tan artists and self-tanners to see where the product has been applied, minimizing streaks or missed areas.

Why are bronzers important in sunless tanning?

• Instant Color for Flawless Application – Bronzers offer immediate color, helping users achieve an even tan and preventing uneven patches.
• Temporary Glow While DHA Develops – Since Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the active tanning ingredient, takes several hours to react with the skin fully, bronzers provide a temporary glow until the tan fully develops. Once rinsed, the bronzer washes away, revealing the true DHA-developed tan underneath.

Types of bronzers used in sunless tanner

• FD&C/D&C Dyes – Custom-blended water-soluble colors such as D&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1 to create a natural bronze hue.
• Caramel – A warm-toned natural colorant that blends effortlessly for a smooth, even look.
• Erythrulose – Sometimes combined with DHA for a gradual color boost and a more natural fade.

Bronzers ensure that your sunless tanning application is seamless, making them an essential component of high-quality sunless tanning products.

The following FAQs explain how bronzer tone may appear during application. Bronzer is a cosmetic guide only and does not determine final tan color.

Bronzer Tone & Appearance FAQs

Why does the bronzer look slightly different on different clients?

Bronzer is a cosmetic guide color that sits on the surface of the skin, so natural skin tone, hydration level, and lighting can influence how it appears during application. Because bronzers are not fully opaque, they visually blend with the skin underneath. This variation is normal and does not affect the final developed tan color.

Does the bronzer shade determine the final tan result?

No. The bronzer is only a temporary visual guide used during application. The lasting tan color develops from the reaction between DHA and amino acids in the outermost layer of the skin. After the first rinse, the bronzer washes away while the DHA-developed color continues to deepen.

Why are AYU bronzers designed in specific tone families?

AYU bronzers are formulated in balanced brown tone families that appear natural and professional across a wide range of skin tones. The goal is visual harmony during application, not undertone correction. These muted, neutralized tones help artists see coverage clearly while maintaining an elegant, realistic appearance before rinse.

The color from AYU sunless tanning products usually lasts 7 to 10 days. To get perfect results follow the instructions for “before and after care” listed on the SunlessSmart information page. Exfoliation and moisturizing is the main key in maintaining a smooth, even, and radiant tan.

Both solutions are sunless tanning solutions that contain DHA and/or Erythrulose. The Clear Solution is colorless and is either crystal clear or milky white depending on which AYU solution you are applying. The Clear Solution is good for facial application due to sensitive skin, or when clients are going to wear a white dress occasions such as weddings. Most people prefer to be sprayed with clear solution to avoid transferring unwanted color onto their expensive dress. Caution and practice is suggested before spraying with the Clear Solution.

The Bronzer solution contains FD&C or D&C colors. The need for the Bronzer Solution is that it helps the technician perform an even application that results in smooth, glowing tan; also, it aids in an “instant gratification” tan appearance with the first application. Once the DHA and Erythrulose tan develops after 4 to 8 hours, the client can wash off the bronzer and reveal a radiant, beautiful tan.

All AYU products are carefully formulated to be gentle, even on sensitive skin. Though it is recommended when trying any new product that a 24-hour test is performed on the back of your neck before applying on the face or body.

If you have any questions about AYU products or applications, please do not hesitate to contact us anytime. Also, call 423-244-0537 to speak to a product specialist or leave a message that will be promptly returned within 24 hours. Please provide adequate information in your inquiry: your concerns, the products you are interested in, etc. so that we may provide you with the best response to our ability.

No, AYU sunless tanning products and bronzers do not provide protection from sun. All of the labels on our sunless tanning products contain the below warning:

"Warning--This product does not contain a sunscreen and does not protect against sunburn. Repeated exposure of unprotected skin while tanning may increase the risk of skin aging, skin cancer, and other harmful effects to the skin even if you do not burn."

Choosing the right DHA level is about desired depth of color, skin condition, and how your client’s skin typically holds a tan, not just how light or dark their natural skin tone appears.

6% DHA Light Soft Glow

Best for

• Very fair skin

• Dry, mature, or delicate skin that sheds quickly

• First-time sunless clients

• Clients who prefer a subtle, natural-looking glow

• Mid-week or maintenance touch-ups

This level creates a soft, natural result and is less likely to look heavy on thin or dehydrated skin. It is a great confidence builder for new clients and a safe option when the skin condition is not ideal.

8% DHA Natural Balanced Color

Best for

• Most clients• Balanced, healthy skin

• Those wanting noticeable but natural-looking color

• Clients new to professional spray tanning

This is your dependable everyday strength. It gives visible color while still fading evenly when the skin is properly prepared and hydrated.

10% DHA Enhanced Depth

Best for

• Clients wanting a richer result

• Skin that is well hydrated and prepped properly

• Regular spray tan users who know how their skin develops

This level offers greater color potential while maintaining a natural-looking finish. It works beautifully when the skin barrier is healthy, and the artist applies it with good control.

12% DHA High Color Potential

Best for

• Clients asking for a deeper bronze

• Resilient, well-moisturized skin

• Experienced spray tan clients

Higher DHA levels provide more available reactant on the skin surface, but the final result still depends on how well the skin can support the reaction. Proper prep and hydration are essential for even development and a smoother fade. Extra attention should always be given to dry areas such as the hands, feet, elbows, and knees.

14% DHA Higher Reactivity For Skin That Can Support It

Best for

• Clients whose skin develops sunless color easily

• Well-hydrated, balanced skin with a strong barrier

• Experienced clients who understand their personal development pattern

• Situations where skin condition supports a stronger reaction

A higher DHA percentage means more tanning sugar is available for the surface reaction, not that the skin will automatically turn darker. Skin can only react with a limited amount at one time. If the barrier is dry, thin, or shedding quickly, extra DHA will not create more color and can instead lead to dryness or uneven fading.

Important considerations• Not ideal for dry, compromised, or mature skin with rapid cell turnover

• Consistent hydration before and after tanning is critical

• Gentle, thorough exfoliation helps create even development

• Dry areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees need barrier support and a lighter application

When matched to the right skin condition, 14% can enhance depth. When mismatched, it does not improve results and only increases surface stress.

Professional Tip

DHA reacts with the outermost layer of the skin, so hydration levels, exfoliation habits, barrier integrity, and skin thickness often influence results more than natural skin tone alone. Well-prepared skin almost always produces a more even, longer-lasting tan, regardless of DHA percentage.

AYU Sunless tanning solutions should be used within 12 months, we recommend you keep containers tightly closed, away from sunlight and store at room temperature. You do not have to refrigerate or freeze our solution.

AYU sunless tanning products and other self-tanning products in the market have not been tested on pregnant women. We strongly recommend that you consult with your doctor before using any sunless tanning products. We will be happy to provide you with all the ingredients and information needed so that you can discuss and make a decision with your medical professionals.

The duration of a spray tan can vary from person to person, typically lasting between 7 to 10 days. It's important to note that the tan gradually fades over time rather than disappearing suddenly. The natural exfoliation process of the skin causes the tan to lighten gradually.

Spray tans offer a convenient and safe alternative to sun exposure for achieving a beautiful bronzed glow. However, one common question among spray tan enthusiasts is, "How long does a spray tan last?"

For a longer-lasting spray tan, there are several key factors to consider:

• Skin Preparation: Properly exfoliating your skin before the spray tan helps remove dead skin cells and creates a fresh canvas for the tan. Clean and clear skin allows the spray tan solution to adhere better to the skin.
• Tanning Solution and Technique: The quality of the tanning solution used and the expertise of the spray tan professional are essential factors. Higher-quality solutions and skilled application techniques often result in longer-lasting tans.
• Skin Type and Maintenance: Your skin type and how well you care for your skin post tan can affect the lifespan of the tan. Dehydrated or dry skin tends to shed more rapidly, leading to faster fading. Consistently moisturizing with spray tan-safe products and avoiding excessive exfoliation can help maintain the tan's vibrancy.
• Activities and Environmental Factors: Swimming in chlorinated pools or spending extended periods in saltwater can accelerate tan fading. Additionally, excessive sweating,   especially during intense workouts, can impact the longevity of the tan.
• Patience during Development: Following the recommended development time provided by your spray tan professional is crucial. Rinsing off the tan too early can diminish its effectiveness. Remember that the color will deepen over time if you opt for a rapid tan solution.

By being mindful of these factors and taking appropriate steps, you can help extend how long your spray tan lasts and enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting glow.

We have tried to cover all the questions you may have but should you think of any questions that are unanswered please do not hesitate to contact us at ayuinternational at gmail.com and we will try and answer all your questions, we will reply as soon as possible but give us 24 hours.

At AYU Sunless, sustainability is part of our philosophy. Our products are manufactured in small batches to minimize waste and ensure freshness. We prioritize using high-quality, skin-safe ingredients, and our formulations are free from harsh chemicals. Additionally, we aim for eco-conscious packaging and practices to reduce our environmental footprint while delivering exceptional results.