What To Know About Sunless Tanning Products

By Susan Jumonville


Sunless tanning, also referred to as self tanning, involves the use of various chemicals to give skin an appearance similar to that from a suntan. The practice has become increasingly popular in recent decades. It all began during the 1960s, when there was growing concern over the potential health risks associated with tanning beds and increased exposure to the sun. Health officials recommended that people not use these harmful methods that were being linked to health problems such as cancer. From this arose sunless tanning products.



These sunless tanning products are considered healthier for the body and still allow for the change in appearance that is desired. They are not considered as harmful as ultraviolet rays. These items come in various forms, including gels, lotions, sprays and creams. These are applied directly onto skin of the user.

Among the active ingredients found in sunless tanning products is DHA or Dihydroxyacetone. This is a chemical that, when applied, temporarily darkens skin. The color change does not wash off but will fade over time. Most of these tans will last between a couple days to a week, depending on the usage and the product quality. In general, sunless tanning products do not have sun-protection ingredients, such as sunscreen. This is because sunless tanning products are not made for outdoor use or application, which is like most other tanning items.



Sunless tanning products may be Carotenoid based. These formulas are associated with better results because they use beta-carotene, which is both natural and permanent. Carotenoids are naturally found in fruits and vegetables and are what give such foods their color. Afamelanotide and Tyrosine are examples of other chemicals employed.

Another option for sunless tanning products is special pills. Many of these supplements also include beta-carotene, which is not believed to have any adverse effects on the body. Still, the excess intake of such pills can result in an unfavorable orange or yellow hue of the skin. Some pills have Canthaxanthin, which some believe is harmful because large doses can cause hives and skin to change in color to orange.

Bronzers also fall under the category of sunless tanning products. These are considered a type of makeup, specifically in powder form. They give skin color and a glow that is desirable. Bronzer may be packaged as a powder, spray, gel, mousse, moisturizer or lotion. Ingredients used in these may be added to certain makeup. Bronzing gives a subtle change and natural-looking glow.

As a whole, these sunless tanning products are known to be safer than the exposure to UV rays that is standard with normal tan techniques. They give the skin a natural and even tan when used correctly. Some tips for proper application: exfoliating skin before adding the formula, use a light touch when applying the product to give more even coverage, apply product on the top of the hands as a last step, and allow liquid-based formulas reasonable time to settle and dry.

Sunless tanning products are a great way to change the appearance of skin without risk of developing health problems, such as skin cancer, caused by increased sun exposure. These formulas used in sunless tanning products are available in many different forms, including sprays, pills, gels, and lotions. Results vary and typically last for a few days up to a week.




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