Tuesday, February 12, 2013

How Self Tanning Lotion Achieves A Beautiful Color

By Haywood Hunter


For many people, all they know about tan lotions is that they put it on and begin to darken. How well it works often depends on the way skin is designed. Understanding that the epidermis (or skin's outer layer) and dermis (or inner layer) work in different ways can make it easier to find the right self tanning lotion for you.

Self tanning lotion darkens the outer layer of the epidermis whereas sunbathing darkens the inner layer. This is called the stratum basale layer which can be damaged easily by direct sunlight. A disadvantage of this product is that few contain sunscreen, but when used properly is safe.

The outer layer of the epidermis is called the stratum corneum and at this layer, self tanning lotion works. Since this product was first invented, it has focused on changes on this level in order to help those with the desire achieve that sun-kissed look. The goal is to find the right lotions that work on the outer epidermis.

In 1960, Coppertone was the first to introduce a self tanning lotion that was effective. Unfortunately, it had a tendency to turn skin orange. However, efforts were made to improve the results and now provide lotions that can be smoothed into the skin, swiped, or sprayed in order to achieve everything from a dark Caribbean tan to a lighter color.

Today's self tanning lotion works in less than an hour, but takes about three hours of drying time. This is because the best ones contain dihydroxyacetone that interact with dead skin cells causing them to darken. As cells shed, the tan fades requiring reapplication of the self tanning lotion.

With newer types of self tanning lotion on the market today it is easier than ever to maintain the color desired. Moisturizers, sprays, and powders are convenient forms of self tanning lotion and easy to apply. When going outside, however, sunscreen will need to be used in addition to self tanning lotion.




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