If you are looking for a safe way to tan, don't use a sunbed. Contrary to popular belief, a tanning bed is no safer than baking in the sun. In fact, the Texas AgriLife Extension Service reports that sunbeds actually zap you with twice as much ultraviolet (UV) light as the sun does. Tanning beds use long-ray UVAs that penetrate deep into the skin, sometimes causing severe damage. There are several alternatives to sunbeds, each of which will give you an allover tan without the worry of skin damage.
Airbrush Tan
Airbrush tans offer a safe alternative to sunbeds. Applied with a spray compressor in the privacy of a tanning booth, airbrush tans use a chemical known as dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When dihydroxyacetone is sprayed over the skin evenly, it gives the illusion of a natural sun-kissed look. Eye, lip and nostril protection prevents the inhalation or ingestion of DHA during the air brushing process. The typical airbrush tan lasts between four and 10 days.
Tan in a Bottle
Sunless tanning lotions, sprays and creams are other alternatives to tanning beds. Like airbrush tans, sunless tanning lotions consist of dihydroxyacetone. Sunless tanning lotions do not require a trip to the spa. Applied in the privacy of your own home, sunless tanning lotions provide an even tan over exfoliated skin. Sunless tanning lotions provide a temporary tan that lasts for approximately seven days, requiring reapplication when color begins to fade.
Tanning Pills
Sunless tanning pills darken your skin temporarily with the help of color additives known as canthaxanthin. Some tanning pills contain tyrosine, which stimulates melanin production and darkens skin color.
Bronzers
Powder bronzers offer the versatility of an instant tan, anytime anywhere. Powdered bronzers come in varying shades, including light, medium and dark, best applied with a brush applicator. Lightly dusted over the face, legs, chest and arms, bronzing powders offer a hint of color to the skin. Some bronzing powders contain glistening sparkles that make the skin shimmer. Because it is a makeup, powder bronzer washes off with soap and water.
