Figuring Out How A Self Tanning Body Lotion Causes A Tanned Complexion

By Haywood Hunter

Using a self tanning body lotion is suitable for those who want to show off a dazzling tan without the need to expose themselves to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The name of the product says it all. It is applied topically to let you achieve a darker complexion instantly. It's something relied on by many who feel better having darker skin without risking their health.

Sunbathing or the use of a tanning bed accelerates the formation of melanin in order to darken the complexion. The role of this type of dark pigment is to protect the skin from harm. On the other hand, applying the self tanning body lotion does not cause melanin production. The product's active ingredient simply makes the skin look like it contains more pigment than usual.


Basically, a self tanning body lotion is available in two forms. One of them produces skin darkening a few hours after application. The tanned effect may last for up to 10 days until it disappears entirely. The other can give you a deeper complexion in a snap. However, the product is easily removed with water so a re-application is necessary to maintain your tan.

When you are shopping for that self tanning body lotion capable of producing a fake tan for many days, checking out the list of ingredients lets you encounter dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This is a natural chemical because it is derived from plant sources like sugar cane and sugar beets. It was US FDA-approved as something safe for use on human skin back in 1977.

DHA found in self tanning body lotion reacts to the amino acid content of dead cells sitting on the topmost layer of your skin. This brings about a brown color which may be observed 3 hours after application. For the next 24 to 72 hours, it will darken further. The effect of this self tanning body lotion lasts for about 10 days only as the skin sheds off naturally.

The substance administered inside a spray booth also uses DHA as its main ingredient. However, take note that this chemical is US FDA-approved for topical application. Someone in a spray booth may inhale a few of it, and this may lead to some health issues. It's for this reason why many experts say that using a self tanning body lotion is a safer solution.

You may opt for the kind of self tanning body lotion that yields instant results. This is possible because of the bronzers used by such product. Basically, they cause the staining of your skin, making it appear as though it contains more melanin that normal. But because bronzers simply sit on the skin, the tan disappears as soon as you rinse the product off with water.

Whether you want a self tanning body lotion that contains DHA or something that relies on bronzers, it's important to choose the best product. Not all of these topical solutions are cut from the same cloth. Reading reviews on the internet is a good idea before you purchase one. Going for the best self tanning body lotion around lets you have a natural looking tan.

About the Author: