Fake Tanning
Fake tanning is becoming more and more popular because of
the risks associated with traditional tanning methods such as the suntan
and UV booths. Traditional methods utilize UV rays which cause extensive
damage to the skin and may result in serious medical conditions such as
skin cancer (e.g. melanomas). As awareness has grown of the risks of
over-exposure to UV rays, people have turned to sunless tanning.
There are in fact two sunless tanning options: bronzing powders and
self-tanners. This article focuses on the relative advantages of these
products.
Bronzing Powders
Bronzers are a temporary tanning solution. They come in powder or lotion
form and are applied to the skin just as makeup. Once applied, they
create a tan that can easily be washed off with soap and water. Good
colors can be obtained but it typically lasts for no more than a day.
Some bronzers have greater sweat and water resistance and last longer.
Another disadvantage is that it can appear on clothing when the clothes
rub on the skin. Darker clothing can however prevent this. The most
reputable bronzers on the market are from Chanel and Avon.
Self-tanning Solutions
The active principle of self-tanning solutions is dihydroxyacetone (DHA).
DHA provokes the oxidation of superficial cells of the skin causing it
to darken. This coloration typically lasts for 5 to 6 days and gradually
wears off as skin cells are lost. As you can see, there is no
involvement of UV rays or melanin in this process and it is thus
completely safe.
Some products use erythrulose as their active ingredient. Erythrulose
functions in the same way as DHA but develops more slowly. Thus using
DHA with erythrulose can result in longer lasting tans.
Application of these chemicals to the skin can result in contact
dermatitis. First time users need to apply it to only a small area of
their skin and monitor for any undesirable effects for 24 hours before
contemplating to use it more extensively.
Some tips for applying self-tanning solutions are presented below:
• Professional salons offer expert service. It may be wiser to consult
these professionals for a more refined finish.
• Adequate skin preparation is crucial to obtain the best and most
uniform effects. Thorough cleaning and exfoliation of the skin will
cause uniform absorption of the active ingredient into the skin so that
the change in color is the same everywhere.
• Avoid using moisturizers as this may reduce the effect of the
self-tanners.
• Application of lesser amounts is recommended to the following places:
under the eyes, around elbows, knees and other areas with thick skin.
This is because thicker-skinned areas absorb more of the product and
thus become darker.
• Be very meticulous in the application in order not to forget any
visible area.
• Avoid unnecessary activity just after applying the product. This is
because, if the tanner has not set, sweating will result in streaking.
• Wash the palm of your hands thoroughly or they will be tanned too!
|
