Sunless Tanning Options Offer A Healthy Glow Without The Risk

By Haywood Hunter


Traditional sunbathing may produce a "real" tan, but along with it comes the risk of premature aging signs like wrinkles and age spots and an increased incidence of skin cancer. Excessive UV exposure is also believed to be damaging to the eyes and to impair normal immune function. Sunless tanning options provide those who long for a bronzed complexion the tan they desire without all the health risks.

The spray tan is one of the most popular types of sun-free bronzing. Customers visit a tanning salon where they will remove their clothing and step into a private booth which is controlled by a push button which activates the spray system responsible for applying an even coating of a chemical called dihydroxyacetone or DHA. This substance reacts with the uppermost layer of skin cells to create a darker pigmentation that resembles a golden tan, that lasts for several days.

Some people prefer an airbrush tan, which is very similar to a spray tan in that it also uses DHA and lasts for a week, but it is applied differently. The client wears a bathing suit or underwear, covers the lips and eyes, then the technician will spray on the tanning solution using a spray compressor. It may cost more, but it is typically more precise, without streaks, and is less likely to get inhaled.

Self-tanners are lotions, gels, and sprays are less expensive and can be purchased at most pharmacies and cosmetic counters. Once again DHA is the active ingredient in these products, the only difference is that people must apply these tanners manually the same way they would any other body lotion. With all DHA-based tanners, it is best to first exfoliate the skin before applying them.

A bronzer is a cosmetic product which also provides some extra color, but it is normally only used on the face. These are sold in the form powders or liquid make-up, and once they are applied they make the face appear less pale, but they are not helpful for whole-body tanning. As with all cosmetics they simply wash off with cleanser and water.

In some places, it is still possible to purchase "tanning pills", which contain the color additive canthaxanthin, that stimulates skin pigmentation but has several serious risks associated with its use including liver damage, eye disorders, and severe itching. Unsurprisingly, this drug has not been approved by the FDA and it should be avoided.

Although DHA is for the most part considered to be safe, there are some speculations that inhalation of it may be potentially harmful, and other studies have revealed evidence of long-term damage to skin cell DNA over time, so it should be used with caution. Inhalation and contact with the lips and eyes must be avoided, otherwise it can be used without too much concern.

Some sun exposure is in fact healthy and is needed by the body for Vitamin D synthesis, cell growth, and a strong immune system. However, one must always be sure to protect the skin from UV rays by using a sunblock when spending time outdoors for any length of time.




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