Find out more about Mystic HD and sunless tanning via the frequent questions and answers below.

What is Magnetan® technology?

MagneTan application technology is Mystic’s patented process that uses the human body’s own magnetic properties to attract Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™ to every exposed surface of the skin. When genuine Mystic Tan Tanning Myst passes through the patented spray nozzle, the micro-particles of myst are polarized, taking on the characteristics of “tiny magnets.” These particles adhere evenly, and in a precise uniform amount to the exposed skin to create a smooth, even, natural-looking tan.

What is Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™?

The Mystic Tan Tanning Mysts are patented self-tanning formulations designed especially for use in Mystic Tan® Systems. Our sunless tanning formulations contain DHA, the FDA approved active ingredient that produces the long-term tan effect. When applied, DHA reacts with the proteins in the skin’s superficial layer to form a golden brown color. Your skin begins to darken two to three hours after application and reaches its peak color within 24 hours. The color will gradually fade through natural exfoliation, just like a tan from the sun.

Mystic Tan offers several choices of tanning myst in clear formulations. If an instant tan is desired, add Mystic’s Bronzer additives. These are water soluble, bronzing cosmetics that produce an instant tan. The bronzer is a temporary cosmetic color that washes off in the shower or bath without affecting your ultimate tan.

What should I wear in the Mystic Tan®?

Most people wear nothing since the room is completely private. However, if you do wear a bathing suit or underwear, please note that it may become stained. The Insta-Color Bronzer™ used in the Bronzer Additives is water-soluble and should wash out, but be aware that light colored clothing may become stained.

To help your tan develop evenly, avoid wearing clothing or footwear that fits tightly.

Should I cover my hair while tanning in the Mystic Tan®?

Many customers wear a disposable hairnet, provided by the salon, to keep hair dry. Other customers choose to get their treatment without covering their hair. The Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™ does not penetrate the hair follicle. However, if you use a Bronzer Additive and have very light or white hair, it may become temporarily stained.

Will my skin be wet when I step out of the Mystic Tan®?

Most customers come out completely dry.  Sometimes, if any excess moisture remains on the skin’s surface after the session (maybe a spot or two), do not exit booth, simply approach the dryer vent inside the booth and position yourself in front of it for a few seconds and the warm air will dry off that spot quickly.  Using the wipes provided, gently remove any excess barrier cream from palms of the hands only. Slight stickiness is normal for about 20 minutes after your Mystic session.

How long should I wait after a session before showering?

To give the DHA enough time to fully set, we recommend waiting a minimum of 15 hours after a Mystic Tan® session. During this time, your skin should not be exposed to any moisture. You will notice the majority of your colour within this time, however the longer you wait before showering the more your Mystic Tan will develop and the longer it will last, as your colour may continue to darken up to 24 hours. Showering sooner may diminish the intensity of the tan. If you tanned using a Bronzer Additive, the Insta-Color Bronzer™ will wash off in the shower, but the DHA that creates your longer-lasting tan will remain. Avoid the use of harsh cleansers and exfoliates after your session as these will cause your Mystic Tan to fade quicker.

24 hours after your Mystic Session and for the duration of your Mystic Tan, be sure to keep your body moisturized, doing so will help prolong the longevity of your Mystic Tan.

Will swimming affect my tan?

Swimming in chlorinated water or salt water can fade the Mystic Tan® results, cause possible streaking and will diminish the length of your tan. However, normal activities such as bathing, showering or physical activities will not affect the quality of the tan.

Will my skin look orange?

Not at all. Before Mystic Tan®, most self-tanners were creams and lotions applied by hand. That meant inconsistent coverage. Too much lotion applied in one place left the skin looking orange. Not enough lotion left unattractive streaks. Mystic’s MagneTan™ technology ensures that a uniform micro-spray of Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™ covers the entire body in the exact amount required to produce a smooth, even, natural-looking tan.

Does Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™ have any smell after contact with my skin?

Some people notice a slight starchy smell on their skin a few hours after a tanning session. This is simply the DHA reacting to proteins in your skin and it fades away fairly quickly. If you want to eliminate even the slightest smell, you can simply choose 1 of 3 fragrances.

Has anyone had an allergic reaction to Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™?

The components we use in our myst have been successfully used in cosmetics and food products for decades, and are proven safe for use on the skin. If you’ve had previous allergic reactions to self-tanning lotions or cosmetics, you may want to do a “patch test” first. Put a small amount of Mystic Tan Tanning Myst on a small area of your skin to test for possible reactions.

What happens if the Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™ formulations get in my eyes?

Mystic Tan Tanning Myst formulations have been thoroughly tested by a third-party lab and the results showed no eye or skin irritation. More than 20 million Mystic sessions occur each year, with no adverse reactions documented. However, protective eyewear is provided by the salon should you wish to use it.

What happens if I inhale any of the Mystic Tan Tanning Myst™?

While no one should purposely inhale or ingest the Mystic Tan Tanning Myst, it is known that DHA (the active tanning ingredient) is a non- hazardous compound and causes no adverse reaction in moderate quantities when applied topically or even ingested. DHA has been used as a diet supplement in sports nutrition and is non-carcinogenic. Testing has further shown that DHA is less toxic than aspirin, caffeine and even common table salt. Based on our research, the maximum amount of DHA that could accidentally be ingested or breathed during a one minute Mystic Tan sunless tanning session would be .05 milligrams (equivalent to less than one grain of common table salt). Ingesting this minimal amount of DHA should pose no health risk to the consumer. However, nose filters are provided by the salon and you should use them to avoid inhalation.

How long does a mystic tan last?

A Mystic Tan can last up to 8 days depending on the formulation you choose and the condition of your skin. For optimal results; clean, exfoliated, and moisturized skin 2 hours prior to your appointment, ensures an even longer lasting Mystic Tan. Do not moisturize after this 2 hour period.

Are there ways to enhance the Mystic Tan® results?

Yes, the Mystic Tan product line features ingredients that are specially formulated for Sunless Tanning. Over the counter products are not formulated for Sunless Tanning. They may block the tan’s application and impede the development process. Check out Mystic’s complete line of products, designed to prolong, protect and enhance your sunless tanning experience.