Sunless Tanning Lotion Is A Safer Alternative

By Haywood Hunter


Sunny days create dangers that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Because the ozone layer that shields surface dwellers from solar radiation has been degraded, sunbathing has literally become hazardous, and now ranks with smoking as a known, preventable carcinogen. Those who actively avoid outdoor exposure increasingly turn to sunless tanning lotion as an alternative way to achieve a natural-looking tan without the risks.

Although efforts to ban the use of specific aerosols have been surprisingly effective in reversing ozone deterioration, unprotected sun bathing will still pose a problem for many decades, if not centuries. The use of lotions to create dark color within lighter skin cells eliminates the need for outdoor exposure, and reduces the amount of skin cell alteration caused by ultraviolet radiation.

It does not take long for the epidermis to react to unfiltered sunlight, and without sunscreen any outdoor activity can encourage damage capable of altering DNA. In order to preserve and renew skin cells, the body manufactures a substance called melanin, designed to absorb radiation harmlessly. It is typically a dark red or brownish color, and is the agent that turns skin browner.

Although it looks attractive and healthy, that darkening masks invisible damage that can manifest itself in increased and premature skin wrinkles, a general weakening of the immune system, and even melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. Sunless tanning formulas employ chemical ingredients able to produce the same effect without presenting similar dangers, even though they do not actually act as sunscreens.

Early adapters of bronzing agents introduced sixty years ago sometimes turned bright orange, to their chagrin. Products available today mostly avoid that consequence, although some can still create a florid appearance if not used carefully. In order to attract more customers, some manufacturers have turned to pills infused with food colors unapproved for this type of use or level of consumption, and which can produce alarming side effects.

Products proven safe for use contain DHA, or dihydroxyacetone. It is not an actual coloring agent, but a type of interactive sugar that encourages a chemical reaction with dead skin cells, resulting in darker tones. The effect lasts around one week before starting to fade, and must be consistently maintained. Some cases of eye irritation have been reported, but there is no danger of skin cancer or wrinkling.

Sunless products should be used as directed. Incorrect application results in unsightly streaking or embarrassingly blotchy dark spots, and the creams should not be used in conjunction with tan accelerators, which only increase skin damage. Sunscreen is still necessary outdoors for optimal protection, no matter how dark the epidermis has become. Choose the same protection levels as used before the darkening agents were used.

Exfoliate before applying a cream or gel, and spread it onto separate skin areas for best results. After application, wipe down skin over joints like elbows or knees, and allow the product to dry at least ten minutes. Avoid getting these products in the eyes, and seer clear of tanning pills containing canthaxanthin. Compared to actual solar radiation exposure, sunless tanning products are a reasonably safe alternative.




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