As the spring and summer seasons begin to approach, many of us probably feel the need to shed that pale, dry winter skin that has been covered up all winter long. Thoughts of running off to the tanning salon or laying in the sun make some of us smile, where as there are some of us that can’t tan in sunlight or tanning beds, so we run off to the store to buy self tanners. If you have never used self tanning lotion before, you might be wondering just how they work before applying them all over your body.
Self tanning is not only convenient but can cost less depending on the brand you purchase. Regardless of brand, though, you will find that sunless products which provide the best tan have one ingredient in common: DHA (also known as dihydroxyacetone). Upon application this isomer of glyceraldehydes begins to work within 30 to 40 minutes by mingling with dead cells found in the outermost layer of your epidermis (stratum corneum). Basically, the DHA interacts with the amino acids located in the epidermis, which then produces melanoidin, a natural pigment. The malanoidin adheres with the proteins of your skin cells. The apparent results are a change in coloration of your skin that can last for about 5 to 7 days.
Depending on how the chemicals of the self tanners react with different parts of your body, test a small area of your skin first. Also it is important to read all instructions to avoid streaking or blotching by over application of the product. To keep your hands from turning colors, wash them immediately after applying the sunless tanning product. You may even want to try wearing rubber gloves, but be sure to rub the product in thoroughly. When using self tanners take note to wear protective clothing in the sun, seeing as how most of these products have little to know sunscreen protection.
Now that you know how self tanning lotion works, you can wear your beautiful glowing tan all summer long and into to winter if you so choose.