Lumine Sunless FAQ
What is DHA
(Dihydroxyacetone)?
DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) is a non-toxic, natural sugar compound. It reacts with the amino acids in the skin’s outermost layer to create a temporary bronzed effect. DHA is the only color additive currently approved by the FDA for use in sunless tanning.
Will I look
"orange"?
Our goal is always a sophisticated, natural bronze. The "orange" look often associated with sunless tanning is typically the result of using generic, one-size-fits-all solutions or over-developing the DHA. At Lumine, we use professional-grade formulas with varied base tones (such as violet or chocolate) to counteract unwanted warmth. By conducting a brief skin analysis at the start of your appointment, we customize the solution and development time to your specific skin pH and undertone.
How long will
my tan last?
With proper hydration and care, your Lumine glow typically lasts 7 to 10 days. Because a sunless tan lives in the outermost layer of your skin, its longevity depends on your skin’s natural exfoliation cycle and how well you follow our aftercare protocol.
Why does my tan look
different each time?
Your skin is a living organ influenced by diet, hydration, and hormonal changes. These factors can slightly alter your skin's pH levels, which may affect how the DHA develops. If you are experiencing a significant hormonal shift, please let us know; we can customize your solution to ensure a consistent, dark glow.
How long does the
appointment take?
Expect your concierge session to take approximately 45 minutes from setup/consult to completion.
What should I wear
during the session?
Your comfort is our priority. You are welcome to wear whatever allows you to feel most at ease—whether that is a bikini, personal undergarments, or minimal coverage to ensure the best tan lines. For your convenience and privacy, we also provide a range of disposable undergarments and protective barriers for use during your appointment. Please note that men are required to wear boxers, briefs, or swim shorts.
Will the solution stain
my clothes or linens?
While the solution is developing, some cosmetic bronzer may transfer onto light-colored fabrics. However, our formula is water-soluble and typically washes out of most materials. We recommend wearing dark, loose-fitting clothing until your first rinse and using dark sheets the night of your appointment.
Will this affect my tattoos
or eyelash extensions?
Tattoos: The solution only affects the top layer of skin and will not harm healed ink. We do not recommend tanning over fresh, healing tattoos.
Lashes: Our fine-mist application is gentle and safe for eyelash extensions. However, to ensure both your lashes and your glow are perfectly preserved, we recommend scheduling lash appointments at least 24 hours before or 24 hours after your tanning session. This prevents lash primers or adhesives from interfering with your tan’s development and ensures that the facial cleansers used during lash applications don’t cause premature fading.
Why must I stay dry during
the development phase?
Water, sweat, or steam acts as a barrier that prevents the DHA from properly bonding with your skin. This can lead to spotting or uneven development.
What products
should I avoid?
To prevent your tan from fading prematurely or becoming patchy, avoid bar soaps (such as Dove, Ole, etc.), high-pH body washes, and ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), mineral oils, or petroleum.
You will also want to steer clear of popular "natural" brands like Native—whose cleansing salts and stripping acids cause uneven fading—as well as heavy, raw body butters (like pure shea or cocoa butter), which create a barrier on the skin and break down your color.
For our complete list of tan-safe products and approved alternatives, please review our comprehensive Lumine Prep & Aftercare Guide before your appointment. Following these specific protocols is essential for protecting your luxury glow!
Can I go in a pool,
lake or hot tub?
We recommend waiting at least 24–48 hours after your session. Chlorine, bromine, and salt water are natural bleaching agents that dry out the skin and significantly accelerate fading.
♨️ A Special Note on Hot Tubs: Hot tubs are exceptionally damaging to a spray tan. The combination of intense heat, high chemical concentrations, and powerful jets will rapidly bleach, loosen, and physically strip your tan away in minutes. We highly advise avoiding hot tubs entirely while wearing your glow.
If you do plan to swim in a pool, lake, or the ocean, you can help protect your glow by applying a thick layer of a traditional cream or lotion-based sunscreen first. While it won't completely stop the fading, the lotion acts as a mild waterproof barrier between the water and your tan.
⚠️ Crucial Tip: Stick strictly to synthetic (chemical) lotion formulas. Avoid mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), as their thick, chalky texture acts as an abrasive that will prematurely exfoliate your skin and ruin your color.. Additionally, never use aerosol spray sunscreens; the high alcohol content required to make them a spray will immediately strip your color and cause severe streaking.
Is it safe if I am
pregnant or breastfeeding?
While sunless tanning is generally considered safe, we always recommend consulting with your physician first. We can provide a full ingredient list for your doctor to review. For breastfeeding clients, we provide disposable barriers to ensure there is no contact between the solution and nursing area.
Does a spray tan
protect me from the sun?
No. A sunless tan is purely cosmetic and contains no SPF. You must continue to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage.
I have a major event—
when should I book?
For most events, we recommend scheduling your session 2 to 3 days prior. This allows the tan to fully develop and settle after your first few rinses, ensuring the most natural, photogenic glow.
For Brides & Milestone Events:
To ensure absolute perfection, we require a Trial Glow at least 30 days prior to your wedding or major event. This allows us to conduct a full skin analysis and fine-tune your custom solution, ensuring the color is a perfect match for your attire and event lighting.
Can I tan more
than once a week?
To maintain the health of your skin and the integrity of the color, we do not recommend tanning more than once every 7–10 days. Receiving treatments too frequently can lead to a buildup of solution, which may cause the tan to fade unevenly.
Can I get a spray tan
if I’ve recently had a
medical procedure or test?
We recommend waiting at least 7–10 days after your procedure, or once your skin has fully healed. Adhesives from medical tape, bandages, and EKG electrodes actively remove a micro-layer of skin upon removal and leave behind invisible barriers. If we spray before the skin has a chance to naturally renew itself, the tan cannot develop properly, resulting in uneven, patchy areas.
If you have an upcoming or very recent procedure, please reach out to us before booking so we can help you time your session perfectly!