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Top 5 Things You Should Know About Sunless Tanning

As the concerns about sun damage rise, sunless tanning is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to giving your skin a healthy glow. While tanning, or "fake baking," is known to cause forms of skin cancer and prematurely aged skin, sunless tanning is a safer and faster way to achieve similar results.

But, there are so many options for sunless tanning that the choices and information can be a bit overwhelming. Below you'll find answers and information about this growing trend:

What are the different ways to get a sunless tan?

There are many products on the market today that can help you get the beautiful glow you're looking for. There are two main types of bronzers. The first is cosmetic, that can be washed off like makeup at the end of the day. The other is sunless, which "stains" the skin. The latter type of color eventually fades as skin cells slough off. Here's a closer look at the different types:

Bronzing powder – Bronzing powder is best suited to give your face a healthy glow, while remaining sheer and natural. You can put the bronzer on your face, cheekbones, forehead, etc. to give your skin a golden color without red or brown undertones.

Bronzing gel – This type can be rubbed onto the skin to enhance your tan or add a warm glow to the skin. You can purchase bronzing gel from many department stores in a variety of formulations, many of which include a moisturizer. However, you should be careful when choosing and applying this, as the wrong shade may result in an orange undertone.

At-home spray bronzer – This type of bronzer can be purchased at a department store, and should be sprayed over clean skin for a natural look. After you spray, spread it with your hands to even out the color. When you're finished, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly so they don't get an orange tint. Depending on your natural skin and the type of bronzer you use, you may see a difference right away; with others it takes a few hours.

Professional spray tan – If you have the budget for it, consider a professional spray tan. This can be done in a salon by a professional technician who has been trained to apply the treatment and can help you find the tone that's right for you. The tan is airbrushed on your skin, with focus given to areas that need extra color detail or sculpting.

How does sunless tanning work?

All types of sunless tanners contain DHA, or dihydroxyacetone. DHA interacts with the proteins in the outer lay of skin to create a darker skin color. During the next 3-7 days, the skin's dead cells will slough off and the tan will fade. To maintain your color, it's recommended that you use a self tanner every week.

Is there anything I need to know to prepare for a sunless tan?

If you're using an at-home spray bronzer or going in for a professional spray tan, there are a few things you should do to prepare:

• Remove dead skin cells – Use a body scrub or other exfoliant to remove existing dead skin cells from your body. Pay special attention to areas like the elbows, feet, and hands – the most common spots for the tanner to turn too dark or orange.
• Wax or shave – If you plan to tan your legs, shave or wax at least 24 hours before the procedure, then shower soon before you apply the product to your skin.
• Skip "the extras" – Skip any lotion, moisturizer, or deodorant after showering, as they can interfere with the absorption of the tanner. However, if there are exceptionally dry areas like your hands or feet, applying a little bit of moisturizer won't hurt.

Is there anything I should know after applying the self tanner?

If you've done everything right and still end up with orange or too-dark areas, lighten them by applying baking soda, whitening toothpaste, or hydrogen peroxide. And, to make your tan last as long as possible, moisturize your skin often. Finally, if you go out in the sun, be sure to wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 25 – keep in mind that sunless tanners and bronzers don't protect your skin from sun damage or burn.

Is sunless tanning safe?

Generally, yes. Topical treatments are considered safe alternatives to sun bathing – but, be sure to use as directed and do a "spot check" before applying it to your entire body. If you decide upon a spray-tan, wear eye protection and hold your breath while the tanner is being applied so you don't get the spray around your eyes or nose.

About the Author

Kenneth Brown has written extensively about the beauty and fashion industry. Finding the right hair salon and hair cut is important for a successful outcome.

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