Tuesday, 7 November 2017

Sunless Tanning Options Offer A Healthy Glow Without The Skin Damage

By Haywood Hunter


Traditional sunbathing may produce a "real" tan, but along with it comes the risk of premature aging signs like wrinkles and age spots and an increased incidence of skin cancer. Excessive UV exposure is also believed to be damaging to the eyes and to impair normal immune function. Sunless tanning options provide those who long for a bronzed complexion the tan they desire without all the health risks.

The spray tan is one of the most popular types of sun-free bronzing. Customers visit a tanning salon where they will remove their clothing and step into a private booth which is controlled by a push button which activates the spray system responsible for applying an even coating of a chemical called dihydroxyacetone or DHA. This substance reacts with the uppermost layer of skin cells to create a darker pigmentation that resembles a golden tan, that lasts for several days.

Airbrush tans are basically the same as spray tans, only they offer a higher level of precision. The client's eyes and lips are covered and they wear minimal clothing such as a bathing suit, a technician then uses a spray compressor to evenly apply the DHA to the entire body. Although more costly, it provides a safer application technique with less chance of inhalation. It also lasts for several days.

Relatively affordable, easy-to-use, and safe are the self-tanners. These products come in the form of gels, lotions, and sprays that are applied manually much like a regular body moisturizer. Many cosmetic counters and pharmacies carry these tanners which also contain DHA as the active ingredient. Exfoliating the skin prior to application is recommended when using any DHA-based tanning method.

A bronzer is a cosmetic product which also provides some extra color, but it is normally only used on the face. These are sold in the form powders or liquid make-up, and once they are applied they make the face appear less pale, but they are not helpful for whole-body tanning. As with all cosmetics they simply wash off with cleanser and water.

Tanning pills are available in some places, but are deemed to be unsafe so they must be avoided. They have not gained the FDA's approval and contain a color additive known as canthaxanthin, which causes darkening of the skin but unfortunately has dangerous side effects including eye disorders, liver damage, and severe itching.

DHA is generally regarded as safe for use, although some precautions are advisable. There has been some evidence that it is not healthy to inhale it and that it has been associated with altering the DNA of human skin cells when used over long periods of time. As long as the eyes and lips are protected and one is careful not to inhale it, there should be no real concern or risk imposed.

Some sun exposure is in fact healthy and is needed by the body for Vitamin D synthesis, cell growth, and a strong immune system. However, one must always be sure to protect the skin from UV rays by using a sunblock when spending time outdoors for any length of time.




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