Basic Information Sunless Tanning Products

By Susan Jumonville


Sunless tanning, or self tanning, includes the use of special chemicals to change the appearance of the skin. In recent decades, this practice has become a popular option for those desiring suntan results at a low risk. In the 1960s, health officials became concerned about the link between sun exposure and health problems, specifically cancer of the skin. They urged people to seek out other, less harmful, alternatives. The result was the emergence of sunless tanning products, which are widely available on the market today.



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.



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.

Sunless tanning products include specially formulated pills as well. These supplements typically have beta-carotene as an ingredient, which does not have adverse effects on the skin or body. However, excess use of these pills can results in an unfavorable yellow or orange shade to skin. Some pills include Canthaxanthin, which some consider harmful because it can turn skin orange and cause an outbreak of hives.

Bronzers are another type of sunless tanning products. It falls under the category of makeup but can give skin a glow and color that is desired. Bronzer is available as gels, lotions, powders, sprays, mousses and moisturizers. Ingredients in these items may also be applied to makeup. Bronzing offers a subtle darkening and a natural 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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