Tanning Lotions

Tanning lotions used to be considered a formula that accelerated the darkening pigment on the skin. However, self tanning lotions have become one of the most popular summer skincare items in recent years. There has been a direct correlation between tanning beds and skin cancer, which has led people to find better ways to achieve that bronzed glow.

The Old Ways of Summer

Before tanning lotions, sunbathing and beds were all the rage. With a society more concerned with seasonal appearance than health, and with research still limited, the past was filled with crowded beaches and bronzed bodies.

However, we now know that tanning is extremely unhealthy and should be avoided at all costs. In fact, many dermatologists have devoted a large majority of their careers to promoting awareness regarding the dangers of excessive sun exposure.

Many people falsely believe that sunburns are the cancer culprit. However, we now know that even darkening your skin through moderate tanning without ever experiencing a burn can increase your skin cancer risks.

While getting a little sun is good for your health, tanning requires more sun than you realistically need to maintain your vitality. As a general rule, tanning is never a good idea.

More than 1 million skin cancers are predicted to be diagnosed in the U.S. alone next year, and with the ozone depleting and UVA & UVB rays getting progressively stronger and more damaging, people must begin to explore alternative ways of getting a bronzed look during the warm weather.

Self Tanning Lotions Hit the Scene

Self-tanners have actually existed as long as mass-produced cosmetics have. Coppertone unveiled the first quick self-tanner in 1960. Ever since, the concept of sunless tanner has been cultivated and evolved to the natural looking lotions available today.

There are two types of self-tanners. The first is bronzer, which is a type of cosmetic that washes away with soap and water. The other, more popular alternative is the self-tanning lotion that contains dihydroxyacetone. This key ingredient is a clear sugar that mixes with your top layer of skin cells to give you a darkened look. The lotion takes about 3-4 hours to fully develop, and re-applying will cause you to get a darker glow. After you have reached your desired shade, you can expect the tan to last anywhere from five to seven days.

The Risks of Tanning Lotion

While self-tanning lotion has yet to be proven to pose any health risks, there are few cosmetic risks to keep in mind. Self-tanner can look streaky or orange if the application is rushed or an incorrect shade is used. You can prevent this by starting with a shade realistic to your skin tone.

Another cosmetic risk associated with self-tanning lotions is fading. Self-tanners tend to fade unevenly and cause unsightly splotches. To prevent this from happening, always exfoliate thoroughly before applying tanning lotion and purchase a brand that is tinted so you can see where it has been applied.

The Traditional Route

If sunless tanner is not your thing, and you prefer to do things the old fashioned way, take some serious precautions. Never use a regular tanning lotion without a sunscreen to help filter some of the UVA/UVB rays. Never lay out in the sun for extended periods of time and always be sure to hydrate yourself with plenty of water.

Whether or not you will be sunbathing, being outdoors at all can still be risky. Protect yourself with at least SPF 15 every day to decrease your risks of developing premature aging and cancer. Many cosmetics now include SPF in them to help protect the skin from the sun's rays. Wearing a hat or a light long-sleeved shirt are other great ways to have summer fun without risking damage.

Remember, prevention is your greatest weapon in the battle against skin cancer, and self-tanning lotions are a fantastic way to stay healthy without sacrificing your summer look.

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