The idea of sunless tanning is not a new or original idea. Some form of sunless tanning has been on store shelves since the 1960s. It wasn't until the 1990s, however, that sunless tanning really hit its peak. Products that produce natural, even tans without an orange or spotty hue flooded shelves.
You can find sunless tanning products in the cosmetics or tanning lotion aisles of your local drugstore or supermarket. Even department store lines carry them. They are sold as "self-tanning" creams, lotions, or sprays. Some tanning salons offer spray tans or mists that give an instant bronzed look that is both safe and temporary.
How Sunless Tanning Products Work
The active ingredient in most sunless tanning products is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colorless sugar that interacts with the dead cells of the outermost layer of our skin. The reaction results in a temporary darkening, giving a tan appearance. The "tan" only lasts for about week after application.Sunless tanning products do not provide any type of protection against UV rays of the sun or artificial UV sources like tanning beds. The darkening of the skin is temporary and does not actually change the melanin in the skin -- the substance that gives our skin its color tone. Therefore, it is vital that you continue to wear a sunscreen when outdoors.
Safety of Sunless Tanning Products
Sunless tanning products containing DHA are regulated by the FDA and are considered to be safe when used as directed. Spray tans and mists are safe, but be sure to avoid inhaling the product during application. The danger of inhaling DHA is unknown.On the other hand, tanning pills are not approved by the FDA and are considered to be unsafe. They do not contain DHA, but an ingredient called canthaxanthin, which can cause dangerous side effects.
Which Sunless Tanning Product Works Best?
There are hundreds of different types of sunless tanning products on the shelves and in tanning salons. Cost range from $5 to $100, depending on the brand and whether or not it is professionally applied at a tanning salon.
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