What To Know About Sunless Tanning Products

By Haywood Hunter


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.

Among the active ingredients found in sunless tanning products is DHA or Dihydroxyacetone. This is a chemical that, when applied, temporarily darkens skin. The color change does not wash off but will fade over time. Most of these tans will last between a couple days to a week, depending on the usage and the product quality. In general, sunless tanning products do not have sun-protection ingredients, such as sunscreen. This is because sunless tanning products are not made for outdoor use or application, which is like most other tanning items.



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.

Tanning pills are widely available and used as sunless tanning products. Most of the supplements of this kind have beta-carotene, which is not considered harmful. Still, high dosages of these pills can cause skin to turn yellow or orange. Some pills include Canthaxanthin, which is not as favorable because it is known to cause hives and orange skin.

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 a great way to change the appearance of skin without risk of developing health problems, such as skin cancer, caused by increased sun exposure. These formulas used in sunless tanning products are available in many different forms, including sprays, pills, gels, and lotions. Results vary and typically last for a few days up to a week.




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