Benefits of a Tanning Lotion

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Tanning lotion is generally used before tanning out in the sun or in a tanning booth or bed. People utilize tanning lotions to maximize their tanning experience depending on how far they want to take their tan. Tanning lotions can be purchased at retail stores, tanning salons, beauty boutiques and online. Tanning lotion contains an array of ingredients that can be utilized in different ways. Most start off with mineral oil as a base and then additional ingredients are added based on the need of the user.

Protection

One benefit of using tanning lotion as opposed to tanning oil or baby oil when tanning in the sun is for protection. Some tanning lotions contain sunscreen. The sunscreen ranges in SPF ranging from 2 to 50 or higher. SPF blocks the sun's rays from directly penetrating the skin. This allows the user to adjust accordingly where and how much exposure they want their skin to have while tanning.

Aromatherapy

Many tanning lotions are designed to help relax the user. One way to go about this is by utilizing aromatherapy. Aromatherapy uses infused herbs and plants to create a relaxing or invigorating scent to utilize while tanning. The aromatherapy is often infused with other ingredients and releases scent as it is spread onto exposed areas on the body.

Color

Many people use tanning lotions to obtain color. This can be done with a tingler or bronzer. A tingler works as the lotion is applied to the skin. It slowly causes the blood vessels to dilate giving the skin a temporary reddened or flushed appearance. Bronzers also add color. This can be temporary color that washes off or a sunless tanning lotion that adds color to the skin. Some tanning lotions have color streaks and glitters that offer a splash of color for those who want a shimmer shine to their skin. The glitter also acts as a refractive prism that helps the body absorb rays, lending to a deeper tan. DHA in combination with vitamins A and E can also lead to a darker more deeper long lasting tan.

Convenience

Many people utilize tanning lotion for its convenience. Some of the bottles are attractive with stylish designs and artwork on them. They also come in a variety of sizes that fit easily into bags and purses so they can easily be brought along. Many have non-spill caps so that more lotion doesn't spill out than what is needed.

Hydration

Many tanning lotions include added moisturizer that prevent the skin from drying out when tanning or being outdoors in the sun. Hemp seed oil, antioxidants, essential oil extracts, botanical extracts and natural emollients are added to the lotion base to provide continuous moisture before, during and after the tanning process.

Julie Boehlke

About this Author

Julie Boehlke is a seasoned copywriter and content creator based in the great lakes state. Aside of traveling and concocting new wine recipes, she enjoys writing on a wide genre of topics such as green living, gardening, world travel, golf, outdoors, camping, winemaking, gourmet cooking, hiking, backpacking, outdoor survival and interior decorating. Her diverse medical background and experience allows her to share her expertise in end of life care, disease management and behavioral therapy.

Last updated on: 10/27/09

Article reviewed by Brad Walters

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