Your armpits smell bad after a spray tan primarily because the interaction between the spray tan solution and your skin's chemistry alters your pH and releases odor. The active ingredient, DHA (dihydroxyacetone), is the main culprit.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- DHA Reaction: DHA reacts with the amino acids on the surface of your skin to create melanoidins, which are brown pigments that give you the tanned look. This chemical reaction can produce a noticeable odor.
- pH Change: This reaction can also alter the pH balance of your skin, potentially creating an environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive.
- Individual Body Chemistry: Everyone's body chemistry is unique. This means that the degree to which you experience this post-spray tan odor varies. Some people barely notice it, while others find it quite strong.
- Trapped Moisture: Armpits are a naturally moist environment, and the spray tan solution can trap even more moisture, further contributing to the odor.
In summary, the combination of the DHA reacting with your skin, pH changes, and the moist environment of your armpits creates the unpleasant smell.
