FAQs
Why tan?
People choose to tan for psychological and physiological reasons. Most seek the cosmetic value of darker skin as a way to heighten mood and self-esteem. Others tan to help their bodies produce Vitamin D, or to treat psoriasis in a doctor's care.

How does my skin tan?
When the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, a natural process begins to take place. Melanocytes are special cells in your epidermis, the outermost layer of your skin. When exposed to UVB (shorter) rays, these melanocytes produce the pigment, melanin, which is then absorbed by the surrounding skin cells. Exposure to UVA (longer) rays causes the melanin to oxidize or darken, creating a tan.

How long will it take to get a tan?
Everyone's skin is different, and the tanning process occurs at different speeds depending on a person's skin type. Those with darker complexions usually tan faster than those with fair skin. As a general rule, 10-15 consecutive sessions (every other day, or not more than 4 times per week) will give you a base tan. How long it takes to get a tan also depends on whether or not you use a Supre indoor tanning product to maximize the tanning results from UV exposure.

Why should I use indoor tanning lotions?
Specifically formulated for indoor use, Supre's professional indoor tanning lotions enhance melanin production, as well as hydrate and condition the skin. When tanning, dry skin reflects light, not allowing UV rays to be absorbed as quickly as when using a lotion. By using a lotion, you are allowing more UV light to penetrate your skin more quickly, which can develop a more natural looking tan up to 60% faster. Dry skin is not healthy skin; by keeping your skin in optimum condition, you will tan darker, faster, and stay tan longer.

Can I use indoor tanning lotion on my face?
Not recommended if you have sensitive skin, as the lotion may irritate delicate facial tissue. Supre has several facial indoor tanning lotions specifically formulated to provide excellent skin care and not clog pores.

Are Supre products tested on animals?
No, they are not.

I always put my lotion on at home before I come to the salon. Is that okay?
It is best if you apply the lotion to your skin right before you get into the tanning bed. This ensures maximum moisturization for better magnification.

What is the shelf life of Supre lotions?
Your lotion will be good for up to 12 months. Please don't leave it in extremely hot or cold environments such as the trunk of your car as this will affect the formula and decrease its efficacy.

Do any of Supre's tanning lotions or moisturizers contain mineral oils?
No. Mineral oils can crack tanning beds and clog skin pores.

Should I tan indoors or out?
Indoor tanning provides a controlled UV environment and allows you to monitor UV exposure time to the minute.

How do I decide which tanning lotion to use?
It depends on the results you are looking to achieve. Do you like your natural tan as far as color and depth? (Make a recommendation based on their answer as to what type of lotion best suits their needs.)

Can I use this lotion outdoors?
Yes, if used in conjunction with an SPF product. Note that tingle products are NOT recommended for tanning outdoors.

Can I just use a regular daily moisturizer purchased from a drugstore?
Are all daily moisturizers the same? No! Daily moisturizing locks in moisture and enhances your tanning results. We recommend professional daily moisturizers from Supre and Hempz over any drugstore-bought variety. Apart from moisturization designed to preserve and enhance your tan, they offer the added benefit of minerals and nutrients key to developing and maintaining your healthy tan and skin.

Note: Over-the-counter moisturizers often contain mineral oil, which can not only clog your pores, but also strip away your tan.

What are paraben-free lotions?
Several of Supre's new formulations are paraben-free. Parabens are preservatives widely used in the cosmetic industry and are considered safe. However, a very small percentage of people are allergic to them. Also, more and more people are asking for paraben-free formulations due to environmental concerns. All Supre products are safe and effective, and we now offer several paraben-free lotions to satisfy the varied needs of tanners.

Why does my tan fade?
Since a tan occurs in the epidermis, the skin's outermost layer, it is eventually lost during the natural exfoliation process. Your skin replaces its cells every 28-30 days; the cells in the top layer are sloughed off, allowing new ones to reach the surface. When the old cells are exfoliated, they take with them the darkened melanin created by the exposure to UV light. To maintain your tan you must continue to expose your skin to UV light. Using Supre's indoor tanning lotions and daily moisturizers, as well as Hempz body washes, will help you maintain and extend the life of your beautiful tan.

Will I fail a drug test if I use products containing hemp?
No. Hemp seed oil and extract are THC-free. Supre goes the extra mile and tests every batch of product containing hemp seed oil or extract to ensure it is THC-free.

Why do I have to use eyewear?
The potential risk of eye injury from unprotected UV exposure is serious and real. The skin on your body is thinnest around the eyes; UV light can easily penetrate this skin, causing burns, cataracts, poor night vision or possible permanent loss of sight. Repeated, unprotected exposure to UV light may cause long-term damage to your eyes. That's why we recommend tanners use eyewear every time they tan. Remember, you only have one set of eyes. Take good care of them.

What do hot (tingle) products do?
They help stimulate rapid circulation on the surface of the skin, creating an extreme redness and warming/tingling sensation to enhance the intensity and appearance of a tan. The effect is temporary and can last up to several hours.

Is there anyone who should not use a hot product?
Yes. Hot products should not be used by beginner tanners or those with sensitive skin. Do not use hot products outdoors.

Can I use a hot product on my face?
No. The sensation is too intense for sensitive facial skin. We recommend washing hands after applying a hot product to avoid transfer to the face or other sensitive skin areas.

Does a hot product give you sunburn?
No. It does create a temporary redness and warming sensation to the surface of the skin that can last up to several hours.

My tingle lotion doesn't work anymore. I can't feel the heat.
If you have been an avid tingle tanner, it is possible for your skin to acclimate to the heat. Your tingle lotion is still performing even if you no longer feel the tingle sensation. You may want to move up to a higher tingle factor, or alternate with a non-tingle lotion for a brief period of time.

What is the best way to apply a bronzer?
For best results, apply an even amount across the entire body in a smooth, circular motion and remember to wash your hands after application!

Should I exfoliate before using a bronzer or sunless tanner?
Yes. Exfoliation helps remove dry skin cells, which absorb self-tan color and can refract UV tanning rays, causing splotchiness and uneven results. We recommend Hempz Herbal Body Scrub for gentle exfoliation.

How long should I wait to shower after using a bronzer or sunless tanner?
Wait at least 2-4 hours before showering, swimming or performing an activity that might create excess perspiration. This will ensure a smooth, even color and help prevent streaking.

How long does a sunless tan last?
It typically lasts 3 to 5 days and will start to fade as your skin exfoliates. You can extend your sunless tan with daily use of one of Supre's all-day moisturizers.

If I have a sunless tan, do I still need to wear SPF when I am outdoors?
Yes. Sunless tans are artificial coloring of the skin and provide no protection from UV rays.

What is that awful smell you can get after tanning?
When the body heats up, harmless bacteria on the skin cause that smell. Many Supre lotions contain Odor Shield Technology™ to eliminate after-tan odor.