Sunday, December 2, 2012

Choosing Lotion Sun Tan Products

By Haywood Hunter


Today many light-skinned westerners feel that they must have at least a little color from the sun during the summer months. Lotion manufacturers are eager to help them, whether the tanning comes from the sun or from lotion sun tan products.

A lily-white complexion used to be fashionable, but California movie stars and Riviera jet-setters have changed the way people want to look. It is a personal choice whether tanning should be light or dark, but almost everyone wants at least a little bronzing. However, medical advice has been almost unanimous in saying that it is dangerous to go outside without some protection from the sun.

There are many creams, lotions, and even sprays on the cosmetic shelves that promise to make tanning faster, more even, safer, and better for total body health. Many contain natural oils and plant extracts designed to nourish the skin while protecting it from drying or sun damage. The scent, the texture, the long-lasting nature of the product, and the appearance of the container are all part of the appeal.

Many of the products designed for outdoor use contain screening ingredients, with varying strengths rated by SPF numbers. Only dark tanning oils do not have a SPF rating, and these often are made with natural ingredients such as coconut oil that are considered natural protection. Even lipstick and foundation makeup now has sunscreen added.

Research has shown that sunscreens are effective if use properly. However, authorities still recommend wearing a hat when outside, staying out of direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day, and limiting the amount of exposure. Sunscreens also need to be reapplied after swimming or exercise.

Many people either have little time to be outdoors or do not enjoy the sun's heat. Fortunately for the ones who still wish to have a tan, there are many sunless tanning products. There are a few products that actually color the skin, but most develop the natural protective pigment of the skin, the melanin. This makes them last longer and appear more natural. These topical preparations must be applied carefully and evenly and work either upon application or gradually over a period of weeks.

Some consider any time in the direct sun to be dangerous and choose to use a self-tanning product. Even a tanning booth, with carefully regulated times of exposure, still uses UV rays that have been shown to damage the outer layers of skin. Some authorities think that any tanning from sunlight is a sign of damage that has already occurred. Others feel that some time in the sun is beneficial to total body health.

However, there are some health benefits from time in the sun. Every person must decide for themselves how much time they will spend outdoors, trying for a bronzed look. The many choices of lotion sun tan style help make these decisions easier.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment