Sunless Tanning Alternatives Offer A Healthy Glow Without The Skin Damage

By Haywood Hunter


It has become common knowledge that the sun's powerful UV rays can be very harmful to the skin, causing wrinkles, brown spots, and even skin cancer. Evidence also suggests that excessive UV exposure can also damage the eyes and negatively impact the immune system. Yet, people still long to have beautifully tanned skin, so many are turning to the safer sunless tanning options which are available.

Spray tans are a popular choice amongst those seeking a tan without the sun. Tanning salon clients will be assigned a private booth which they step into after removing their clothes, and then activate the sprayer by pressing a button. An even application of the chemical DHA or dihydroxyacetone will be sprayed on both sides of the body. Darker skin pigmentation results when the DHA reacts with the top layer of cells and will last 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.

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 that provide a temporary hint of color to the face. Worn over foundation, these products are available in powder and liquid form and can make the facial area appear deeper in tone, however they are not for full-body use. They wash off with water and cleanser along with any other make-up being worn.

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.

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.

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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