Sun Care

With increasing worry about sun exposure and the effects of the sun and skin cancer, many people are more concerned about sun care. Self-tanning products or sunless tanners can be great ways to fake a tan without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. Tanning lotion, tanning cream and other self-tanning products are prevalent among skin care manufacturers.

The active ingredient in most sunless tanners is called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA is a type of sugar that stains the skin through a chemical reaction. Regular sun tanning causes a production of melanin (the pigment that makes your skin look darker), which can actually protect you from the sun's rays. However, sunless tanners don't produce melanin, they only give the appearance of darker skin. For proper sun care, it is advisable to use at least an SPF 30 sunscreen on top of sunless-tanner-treated skin to avoid burning and premature wrinkling.

Types of Self-Tanners
Self-tanners used to be readily identifiable for the orange glow they gave their users. Today's sunless tanners give you a golden, bronzed look that is more natural. Tinted self-tanning lotions go on evenly and minimize streaking (lines on the skin that are caused by uneven application of product).

To get the most even tan possible, practice proper sun care preparation. First, exfoliate your skin first to reduce rough spots, especially on knees and elbows. Then, dry your body by patting, not rubbing, so as not to irritate the skin. Dispense the product evenly and smoothly all over and allow it to dry before coming into contact with clothing. A typical self-tanning product will give you an even tan for three to five days without reapplication.