Wednesday, November 29, 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.

Spray tans are a popular choice amongst those seeking a tan without the sun. Tanning salon clients will be assigned a private booth which they step into after removing their clothes, and then activate the sprayer by pressing a button. An even application of the chemical DHA or dihydroxyacetone will be sprayed on both sides of the body. Darker skin pigmentation results when the DHA reacts with the top layer of cells and will last for several days.

Some people prefer an airbrush tan, which is very similar to a spray tan in that it also uses DHA and lasts for a week, but it is applied differently. The client wears a bathing suit or underwear, covers the lips and eyes, then the technician will spray on the tanning solution using a spray compressor. It may cost more, but it is typically more precise, without streaks, and is less likely to get inhaled.

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.

Bronzers are a type of cosmetics which can also create a sun-kissed look, but they are only intended for facial use. They come in both liquid make-up and powder form, and serve the purpose of adding a bronzed tone to the face, but are not useful if a full-body tan is desired. A bronzer is temporary and washes off with water and cleanser.

In some places, it is still possible to purchase "tanning pills", which contain the color additive canthaxanthin, that stimulates skin pigmentation but has several serious risks associated with its use including liver damage, eye disorders, and severe itching. Unsurprisingly, this drug has not been approved by the FDA and it should be avoided.

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.

Even though too much sun exposure is dangerous, people do still need some UV light because it is necessary for Vitamin D synthesis which promotes healthy bones, as well as for strengthened immunity and cell growth. Using a sunblock when outdoor for long periods of time is very important to prevent sunburn and skin damage.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment