A Safer Approach To A Golden Glow Using Sunless Tanning

Sunless tanning is applying chemicals to the skin to produce or simulate a traditional suntan. UV-free tanning became increasingly popular during the 1960s after people became concerned about skin cancer and exposure to the sun. It has continued to increase in popularity as more and more people become aware of the aging effects that the sun and ultra-violet rays can have on the skin.

Most people appreciate the healthy look that a suntan can give your over-all appearance. Having a soft glow to your skin can have many benefits. It can make you look younger, more fit, hide skin imperfections, and just give a healthier look over-all.


Because we are aware of the damage that the sun's rays can have on our skin, we are more inclined to limit our sun exposure. An increase in skin cancer has also caused people to look for a safer, healthier way to achieve a tan. Most people wear sunblock daily now, just to protect themselves from over-exposure.

When you get a spray tan, you are having a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) applied to your skin. It causes a chemical reaction with the amino acids on your skin's surface. This reaction changes the color of your skin, making it darker. You can expect the color to last anywhere from a few days to two weeks.

Because it is not a dye or stain, DHA is safe to use. It won't cause wrinkles or the normal damage from sun exposure. It will slowly wash away in the shower as your dead skin cells slough off. In about a week or two, your skin will return to its normal color.

There are several ways to achieve a spray tan. You can purchase lotions containing DHA and apply them yourself. It then takes a few hours for you "tan" to develop completely. You can also have someone from a salon airbrush a tan on by hand. The last option is to have the tan applied in a spray tan booth.

Cream application can be messy and difficult to apply evenly. Having someone from a salon airbrush a tan on by hand, is the most expensive option and can be a little awkward. You can also have the tan applied in a spray tan booth. This method is very fast, as it only takes a minute for the machine to spray you and can be cost effective.

You can expect even results using the booth method or the airbrush gun. The airbrush gun does take quite a bit more time, though. Remember, a spray tan provides the look of a tan, but does not offer any additional protection from the sun. You still have to wear sunblock when in the sun's rays.

Sunless Tanning is affordable and safe. If you desire the soft glow of a tan, but don't want to risk over-exposure to the sun, this may be an option for you to consider. UV-free tanning is a good choice for safe tanning. You can have a wrinkle free tan without the risk of developing skin cancer. Enjoy a soft, worry-free natural glow!