Sunday, January 20, 2013

Facts About Sunless Tanning Products

By Susan Jumonville


Sunless tanning, which is also known as self tanning, is the use of chemicals on skin to produce results that are similar to that of a suntan. This practice has become more popular in the last few decades. It began in the 1960s when there was increased concern over the effects of sun exposure and tan beds. Health officials urged individuals to not use these methods, which were being linked to skin cancer and other health problems. There are now numerous sunless tanning products on the market that are considered safer alternatives.



These sunless tanning products are considered a safe alternative that still offers the desired change to skin color. They do not include chemicals that are as harmful as natural ultraviolet rays. These products are available in many different forms: creams, sprays, gels and lotions, to name a few. Typically they are applied directly on the skin.

Dihydroxyacetone, also called DHA, is an active ingredient found in a majority of sunless tanning products. This chemical, after application, darkens the skin for a temporary amount of time. The color does not wash off but will fade as the dead skin falls off. Most of these artificial tans will last up to a week, but it will depend on the quality of the product and the usage. Generally, sunless tanning products have no sunscreen or sun-protection ingredients. In contrast to most other tan products, these are not designed for outdoor application or use.



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.

Generally speaking, sunless tanning products are considered more safe than high amounts of exposure to UV rays, which is common with standard tanning. When properly applied, they give skin a natural and even coloring. Some tips to keep in mind for application: always exfoliate the area before application, use a light hand during application to ensure even coverage, apply on the tops of hands as a final step, and allow liquid-based products to dry and settle.

Sunless tanning products are an ideal way to change the skin appearance without risking health problems, such as cancer, associated with long-term sun exposure. The formulas used for sunless tanning products can be packaged in different forms, such as pills, lotions, gels and sprays. Results will differ and usually last no longer than a week.




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