The Science of Spray Tanning: How DHA Gives You That Golden Glow

When people think of spray tans, they often imagine it’s just “color in a bottle” — but there’s some real science behind your bronzed glow. At Sunny Daze Sunless, we use a skin-safe ingredient called DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to create that flawless tan without the sun damage. Whether you’re in Lawrence, Overland Park, or Kansas City, here’s how your glow actually works.

What is DHA?

• DHA is a colorless sugar derived from plants like sugar beets or sugarcane.
• When sprayed on the skin, DHA reacts with amino acids in the top layer of your skin (the stratum corneum).
• This chemical reaction is called the Maillard Reaction — the same type of browning that happens when bread toasts or apples oxidize.
• The result? A natural-looking tan that develops over 6-12 hours.

Why Does It Look Like a Real Tan?

• The color change happens only on the dead skin cells on the surface, which is why spray tans gradually fade as you shed and exfoliate.
• The depths of your glow depends on:
  • The strength of the DHA solution
  • Your skin tone + undertones
  • How well you prep and care for your tan after your appointment.
• Unlike sunbathing or tanning beds, there’s no UV damage, no risk of premature aging, and no increased skin cancer risk.

The Safe Science Behind It

• DHA has been approved by the FDA for external use for decades.
• Professional solutions (like the ones we use at Sunny Daze Sunless) also include hydrating ingredients like aloe, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins to keep your skin glowing longer.
• When applied by a trained artist, DHA stays on the skin only and doesn’t penetrate deeper layers.

How To Get The Best Results

🔑 Science + prep = the longest-lasting glow.

• Exfoliate before your tan to remove dead skin build-up (so DHA applies evenly).
• Avoid heavy lotions or oils right before your tan (they block DHA from absorbing).
• Moisturize daily after your tan to slow down the natural shedding of skin cells.

Conclusion

Your glow is powered by save, proven science – and a little DHA magic. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, a KU game, or just want to feel sun-kissed in Kansas City, spray tanning is the healthiest way to get bronzed.

👉🏼 Ready to experience the science for yourself?

and see why DHA = your new BFF for a golden glow.