Commercial spray tanning booths are the quick, safe and easy way to get a tan. Keep in mind that some skin conditions (such as very dry, older, or freckled skin) will not mix well with a spray tan. Those conditions might cause the spray to appear uneven.

Commercial spray tanning booths use the active ingredient DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to artificially darken the color of skin. DHA is the most effective ingredient in sunless tanning. In a booth, consumers receive an application of DHA in spray or mist form. The artificial color doesn’t last very long (generally 5 days at most), but that doesn’t seem to deter customers.

Though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in no way regulates or monitors tanning salons or commercial spray tanning booths, it has deemed DHA safe for external application only. And, if you are getting a spray tan at a salon that isn’t providing protection for your eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes, go to a different salon.