It can make you look thinner and healthier, and has become a staple in the aesthetic ritual of Hollywood and Anywhere, USA. It's a tan - and everyone wants one. Yet sun exposure can cause wrinkles, skin damage and put you at risk for various cancers. Thus, the advent of the sunless tanner. At the root, all sunless tanners are the same--they contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which paints the skin a tan color and fades as the skin cells die and fall off.
What to Look for
Beyond their shared chemical root, the tanners distinguish themselves with various characteristics. When you shop for sunless tanners, it's these characteristics you should consider: Do you want to be tan this instant, or can you wait a few days? What is the complexion of your natural skin, and is there a tanner specific to your shade? Gradual tanners, for example, stain your skin via multiple applications over about a week. With these, you lessen the chances of streaking and that "orange" look. If you need a quick tan, you can select an instant tanner, but will need to decide whether you prefer a spray, cream or something in between. A new trend in the tanner business is self-tanning and moisturizing lotion. If you're willing to pay a little more, you can kill two birds with one stone and purchase your tanning lotion and moisturizer in a single bottle.
Common Pitfalls
Despite the breadth of selections when it comes to sunless tanners, there are some potential pitfalls you should keep in mind. First, sunless tanning lotion does not protect you from the sun. If you're going to be in the sun, you should wear sun block. Also, with the low levels of DHA in gradual tanners, some studies showed no developed tan at all. All sunless tanning products can be difficult to apply, too. Experts say the best way is to clean and exfoliate the area to be treated first, and then apply evenly to the entire area. If you don't, your tan will be spotty and streaky. The most common complaint, however, is the smell. If you have a sensitive nose (or if those around you do), you may find the chemical undertones are too much.
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