As a spray tan artist, using high-quality solution is essential to delivering flawless results for your clients. However, even the best solutions don’t last forever. Knowing how to identify if your spray tan solution has expired is key to maintaining the integrity of your services and keeping your clients happy.
Why Does Expiration Matter?
Spray tan solutions are made up of active ingredients, like DHA (dihydroxyacetone), that develop the color on the skin. Over time, these ingredients can break down or oxidize, leading to poor performance. Using expired solution can result in streaky tans, uneven fading, or an unpleasant smell, which can hurt your reputation as a professional.
Signs Your Spray Tan Solution Has Expired
If you’re unsure whether your solution is still good to use, here are some telltale signs to watch for:
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Change in Smell
Spray tan solution should have a mild, pleasant scent. If it starts to smell sour, rancid, or overly chemical, it’s likely expired. -
Separation of Ingredients
If you notice that the ingredients have separated and don’t mix back together after shaking, this is a strong indicator that the solution has gone bad. A cloudy or clumpy consistency is also a red flag. -
Discoloration
Fresh solution should have a consistent golden or amber hue. If the solution has turned green or significantly darker than usual, it’s oxidized and no longer effective. -
Poor Results on the Skin
If your clients’ tans look uneven, fade patchy, or don’t develop properly, the solution’s DHA may have degraded. This is often a sign that the product is past its prime. -
Expired Label
Always check the manufacturer’s expiration date printed on the bottle. Even if the solution seems fine, using it beyond this date can compromise results.
How to Properly Store Your Spray Tan Solution
To maximize the shelf life of your spray tan solution, follow these simple storage tips:
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Keep It Cool: Store your solution in a cool, dark place, ideally between 60-70°F. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can accelerate the breakdown of DHA.
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Seal Tightly: Make sure the cap or lid is securely closed after each use to prevent air exposure, which can oxidize the product.
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Refrigerate If Necessary: For longer storage periods, some spray tan artists choose to refrigerate their solutions. Just make sure it’s brought to room temperature before use.
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Use Clean Tools: Always use clean equipment when dispensing or handling the solution to avoid contamination.
How Long Does Spray Tan Solution Last?
Most spray tan solutions have a shelf life of 6-12 months from the date of manufacture, but this can vary depending on the brand and storage conditions. Always check the label for specific guidance from the manufacturer.
What to Do with Expired Solution
If you discover your spray tan solution has expired, it’s best to dispose of it. Using expired products not only compromises the results but can also harm your reputation. It’s a good practice to keep track of when each bottle was opened and rotate your stock to ensure you’re always using the freshest product.