Sunless Tanning Alternatives Provide A Healthy Tan 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.

Perhaps the most common type of sun-free bronzing is the spray tan. A growing number of tanning salons are opening up which offer this form of tan which is applied in a private booth where after removing their clothes, the customer steps inside and presses a control button which activates the spray system that delivers an even application of the tan formula. This chemical is called dihydroxyacetone or DHA and when it reacts with the upper layer of skin cells it creates the look of a tan that will last for about one week.

Airbrush tans are basically the same as spray tans, only they offer a higher level of precision. The client's eyes and lips are covered and they wear minimal clothing such as a bathing suit, a technician then uses a spray compressor to evenly apply the DHA to the entire body. Although more costly, it provides a safer application technique with less chance of inhalation. It also lasts for several days.

A self-tanner is an affordable alternative that is sold in most pharmacies and make-up counters. These are DHA-based lotions, sprays, or gels that must be massaged into the skin like other body creams. When using any DHA product, it always best to gently exfoliate the skin first in order to get the best results.

Bronzers are a type of cosmetics which can also create a sun-kissed look, but they are only intended for facial use. They come in both liquid make-up and powder form, and serve the purpose of adding a bronzed tone to the face, but are not useful if a full-body tan is desired. A bronzer is temporary and washes off with water and cleanser.

Tanning pills are available in some places, but are deemed to be unsafe so they must be avoided. They have not gained the FDA's approval and contain a color additive known as canthaxanthin, which causes darkening of the skin but unfortunately has dangerous side effects including eye disorders, liver damage, and severe itching.

Regarded as safe in general, DHA does still have some precautions for safe use that should be followed. It is best not to inhale it, and to avoid it coming into contact with the lips and eyes. Some evidence suggests that it may cause alteration to the DNA of skin cells over time and that it should not be ingested, but if used carefully there is no need to worry.

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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