Sunless Tanners
Choose the Right Sunless Tanners for You
Sunless tanning also known as UV-free tanning refers to the application of chemicals to the skin to produce a suntan effect. Traditionally, pale-skinned individuals achieve a tan skin from constant exposure in the skin. As research increased the link between sun exposure and skin cancer, sunless tanners became more popular. Today, there are a variety of chemically based sunless tanner products that give the same sun tan effect without the health risks.
DHA-based Products
According to dermatologists, the most effective sunless tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA). As the active ingredient of sunless tanners, this colorless sugar interacts with the amino acid found in the dead cells of the skin surface. As a result of the interaction, a color change occurs which lasts for five to seven days from the initial application. The tan is often temporary and requires the use of erythrulose to produce a longer lasting effect. Since the DHA and erythrulose may cause contact dermatitis, it is important to do skin test prior to the whole body application. You may use one area of the skin, usually the elbow, as the testing site. Apply the sunless tanner in the area and check for skin irritation.
Tyrosine-based Products
Although DHA-containing sunless tanners are the most popular, others claim to have better results by incorporating tyrosine in their products. Tanning accelerators like lotions or pills contain the amino acid, tyrosine. This ingredient stimulates the skin darkening by increasing melanin formation. When the amount of melanin increases, the tanning process accelerates.
Canthaxanthin-based Products
Other sunless tanners contain canthaxanthin to produce the tanning effect. This ingredient commonly serves as a color additive in some foods. Although approved as a food color, its tanning function is still in question. This is because as a food color, a small amount of the ingredient is enough to achieve the desired effect. However, for sunless tanners, it requires a huge amount to produce the tanning effect. The canthaxanthin form deposits in the subcutaneous layer of the skin and gives a darker shade. There are claims of side effects of the sunless tanners with the use of canthaxanthin including hepatitis, retinal problems, damage to the skin and the digestive system. Because of the possible side effects, health agencies do not recommend the use of this ingredient as part of sunless tanners.
Melanotan Hormone
Melanotan hormone stimulates the production of more melanin to cause a darker skin. The incorporation of the hormone in sunless tanners gives good results without the potential harmful rays of the sun.
Temporary Bronzers
Bronzers only cause a temporary tanning. Sunless tanners containing bronzers come in powders, sprays, lotions or moisturizers. The skin tan easily goes away with soap and water. The sunless tanner scan stain your skin until all the bronzers have washed off.
The different sunless tanners can give you the flawless skin tan that you wish. It is only crucial to read the active ingredients of the product to help you weigh the risk and benefits of the ingredients. Keep in mind that there are products where you can get the tanning effect without having to sacrifice your health.