The Science Behind the Tan - Our Secret Ingredient: DHA

The Science Behind the Tan: How Spray Tans Actually Work

We all love that post-tan glow — but have you ever wondered how a Tan & Go spray tan actually changes the colour of your skin without the sun?

It’s not magic — it’s chemistry. And it’s completely safe.

The Secret Ingredient: DHA

The key ingredient in every Tan & Go spray tan is something called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) — a colourless sugar that reacts naturally with the amino acids on the surface layer of your skin.

When DHA meets the proteins in your outermost skin cells, a chemical reaction occurs (known as the Maillard Reaction — the same process that browns toast!). This reaction produces pigments called melanoidins, which temporarily darken your skin, giving it that golden, bronzed look.

Because DHA only interacts with dead skin cells on the surface, your natural skin tone underneath isn’t affected. That’s why your tan gradually fades as your skin naturally sheds — usually over 7 to 10 days.

Added Ingredients for an Even Glow

Tan & Go’s solutions don’t just rely on DHA. They’re also packed with moisturisers, antioxidants, and skin conditioners that help your tan develop evenly and fade smoothly. These ingredients hydrate your skin so your colour looks more natural and lasts longer.

Some formulas also include erythrulose, a sugar-based ingredient that works alongside DHA to create a slower-developing, longer-lasting colour with a smoother fade.

Instant Colour vs. Developing Tan

When you step out of the booth, you’ll often see an instant tint — that’s the bronzer, not the actual tan. It helps guide the spray and gives you an immediate glow while the DHA works underneath.

Over the next few hours, your true tan develops as the DHA reacts with your skin. Depending on the formula you choose, you can rinse after 1-3 hours for the rapid or 4–6 hours for a lighter glow, or leave it longer for a deeper bronze.

Safe, Sunless, and Smart

Unlike UV tanning, spray tans don’t damage your skin or increase the risk of premature ageing. The active ingredients have been safely used in cosmetic tanning for decades and are approved by health authorities worldwide.

So, the next time you step into the Tan & Go booth, you’ll know — it’s not just a spray. It’s a safe, science-backed reaction that gives you a flawless glow in minutes.

Tan & Go — smart science, flawless colour, no sun required.