Basic Information Sunless Tanning Products

By Haywood Hunter


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.

DHA, Dihydroxyacetone, is an active ingredient used in many sunless tanning products. The chemical temporarily darkens the skin when it is applied. The change in color will not was off, but instead, fade over time. Most of the tans last for three to seven days, but it will depend on product usage and quality. Generally, such formulas do not have ingredients that protect against the sun, for instance: sunscreen. This is done because sunless tanning products are not designed for outdoor application or use.



Some sunless tanning products include Carotenoid-based formulas. These are known to be effective because they have beta-carotene, which is natural and permanent. Carotenoids are in various vegetables and fruits. This chemical property is what gives them their natural color. Other chemicals that may be present: Afamelanotide and Tyrosine.

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.

In general, such sunless tanning products are considered a safe alternative to normal tanning techniques that involve exposure to harmful UV rays. These products give the skin an even tan and natural appearance when they are use properly. Some suggestions for application: exfoliate beforehand, lightly apply the product for even coverage, put it on the top of the hands last, and allow liquid formulas time to settle in and dry.

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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