Exploring the Benefits of Using Self-Tanning Products

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Getting a tan the traditional way means having to bake under the hot sun while risking developing various unwanted skin conditions and even skin cancer. But in the modern days, having a tan no longer requires such efforts. Thanks to self tanning products, now you have the opportunity to achieve the coveted sun-kissed tan without the risk of damaging your skin.

Self tanning products come in various forms, including lotions, gels, sprays, mousses and creams. You just have to choose the one that’s most compatible with your skin type. Now, you may wonder “What is the active ingredient in self tanning products?” Well, it is the colour additive dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When applied, DHA reacts with dead cells on the skin’s surface layer to temporarily darken the skin, simulating a tan. The colouring typically wears off after a few days.

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Although tanning the natural way has its own benefits, such as absorbing vitamin D while sunbathing, another problem is that sunbathers are more prone to ageing prematurely. Therefore, getting your tan from a bottle is better. And when the tanning product formula is infused with natural ingredients, the number of benefits is even higher. That being said, let’s take a look at the 3 main perks of self tanning products.

Promoting Skin Health

The main health benefit of using tanning products is no harmful UV rays. It is well known that overexposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer even if you use sunblock. Lying in tanning beds regularly will certainly get you the tan you want, but this also comes with side-effects. If your skin is too sensitive and doesn’t tan easily, you may experience sun-burning sensations, redness, itching and flaking on the skin. With tanning sprays, creams and lotions, there are no such sensations. Moreover, a lot of self tanning lotions contain natural ingredients that can benefit the skin by hydrating, moisturizing and firming it. They also help the skin fight premature aging. In fact, making sure that all products you use on your skin contain natural ingredients is a good idea – not just tanning lotions, but skin care products too.

Long-Lasting Tan

A few years ago, tanning lotions were able to provide bronze tan only for a couple of hours. Also, they used to leave stains on the clothes or smelled funny. But this isn’t the case anymore. Today, you can find advanced products that don’t leave a funny smell, don’t stain the clothes and give a long-lasting tan. This is thanks to the formulas that are now revolutionized, enriched with natural ingredients and made according to the latest technology.

Easy to Apply

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Modern tan lotions for body are also very easy to apply. When it comes to how to self tan, you need to take an exfoliation bath or shower first and once the skin is ready, you should start applying from your toes, feet and legs working your way up to your face. Keep in mind though that the face, hands and elbows should be left for last and covered with a very small amount of the tanning product, for example, from the excess on the mitten you already have. This is important because the product will have a stronger effect on these spots and the result wouldn’t be a pleasing. Finally, once you have applied it evenly on the remaining areas, you should wait for a certain period and then take another shower.

Safety Concerns

“Are self tanning products safe?” is a common concern. Topical sunless tanning products are generally considered safe as long as they are used as directed. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved DHA (the main active ingredient in the product) for external application to the skin. However, the FDA states that the ingredient shouldn’t be inhaled or applied to areas covered by mucous membranes such as the lips, nose, areas around the eyes, because the risks of doing so are still unknown. So, when using a sunless tanning product at home, make sure you follow the directions on the label and don’t get the product in your eyes, nose and mouth.

Types of Self-Tanning Products Available

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Gradual Self-Tanner

This is the perfect type for those who want to achieve their tan gradually. Its formula gives a sun-kissed tan throughout a couple of days.

Self-Tanner Lotion

This type is recommended for people who are experienced with self-tanning. It develops the tan about 6-8 hours after application but it must be applied evenly as to avoid streaks.

Self-Tanner Mist

With this product, you can easily get to your back and other hard-to-reach spots and you will be able to achieve great coverage.

Self-Tanner Mouse

This tanner requires the use of a mitt for application because it can easily get out of control. It has a darker and thicker formula than lotions.

Self-Tanner Serum

Serums are usually made for facial application because the formula is lighter and with a lower amount of DHA.