Sunless Tanning Options 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.

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.

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.

Relatively affordable, easy-to-use, and safe are the self-tanners. These products come in the form of gels, lotions, and sprays that are applied manually much like a regular body moisturizer. Many cosmetic counters and pharmacies carry these tanners which also contain DHA as the active ingredient. Exfoliating the skin prior to application is recommended when using any DHA-based tanning method.

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.

In moderation, exposure to the sun can be healthy and is important for proper synthesis of Vitamin D which is needed by the body to keep the bones strong and for immune purposes and cell growth. It is also important to remember that proper protection from excessive UV exposure in the form of a sunblock should always be used when outdoors for extended periods.




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