Indoor tanning has been scrutinized for increasing skin cancer risks and accelerating the signs of aging. While indoor tanning lotions do not eliminate these problems, they can produce a healthier tan. Indoor tanning lotions help skin tan faster, which means you can tan less often and achieve the same results. They also reduce some skin damage by moisturizing and protecting from burns.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Tanning Lotions
Indoor tanning lotions are different than outdoor ones, which means that your normal sunscreen lotion will not work in a tanning bed.
Ingredients
Indoor lotions contain the amino acid tyrosine, vitamin E and copper. Tyrosine helps the body produce and retain melanin, the skin pigment the causes tanning, which will increase tanning speed and produce a longer-lasting tan. Vitamin E clears pores and copper reduces the visibility of scars. Vitamin E and tyrosine have an antioxidant effect that prevents wrinkles and fine lines, decreasing the signs of aging that tanning often causes.
Tanning lotions moisturize skin as well, creating a healthier, more attractive skin. It is particularly important because the UV rays used in indoor tanning dry out your skin.
Types
Indoor tanning lotions have many different purposes. Accelerator lotions contain a lot of moisturizers to allow your skin to tan faster and hold the tan for a long time. They are particularly useful for beginning tanners because they create a nice base tan.
Some lotions work to maximize your tan. These lotions have ingredients that enhance the effects of tyrosine, and are best to use once you have developed a base tan.
Tingling lotions have ingredients that increase blood flow and bring oxygen to your skin cells, which increases tanning. These lotions cause a mild tingling sensation, redness and warming on your skin. Test this lotion on a small part of your skin before using it, to ensure the lotion won't cause a rash or a breakout.
Other lotions moisturize your skin after you tan. This helps your skin recover from tanning and makes it healthier.
