Important Elements In Self Tanning Products

By Haywood Hunter


Human skins fall in several groups including red, black, brown, and white. The various skin types may be dry, oily, or scaly. Due to this, most individuals find it necessary to use self tanning products to alter skin properties like color and to give it additional nourishment. Dihydroxyacetone is contained in most products as the active component that triggers color change when applied. Dihydroxyacetone is abbreviated to DHA in most articles. The application of products with DHA renders sun bathing and use of sun beds unnecessary.

Dihydroxyacetone is available in two main forms. The two forms are chemical and natural versions. As suggested in the names, chemical form is manufactured while the natural form is derived from plants. Using products that contain the natural form is recommendable because they are harmless to human bodies. Since the chemical version is manufactured, it may contain some chemicals that may be unsuitable for the body.

Human skins are composed of three layers, the outer, the middle, and the inner layer. Tanning occurs in the outer layer referred to as corneum. Corneum layer contains dead cells that have amino acids. DHA undergoes a chemical reaction with amino acid changing the color of corneum. The reaction is non-toxic, safe, and takes place externally. This renders DHA compound risk-free and advisable.

The color change is also never permanent and reapplication of the product is required periodically for the tan to be maintained. In most cases the time required before reapplying the product is 10 days. Some product formulas combine DHA and another tanning compound known as erythulose. The mixture of the 2 substances causes a more pronounced and longer lasting tan than when they are used singly. When used alone, erythulose works just like DHA with the only difference being that it takes a longer period for the tan to form.

There are many reasons that make tanning commodities a good option for attaining radiant skins. Besides being harmless, they eliminate the need for having to spend hours sun bathing or enclosed in sun beds. There is the risk of skin cancer in many skin types if the body is exposed to radiation from the sun for long periods. This makes all options that involve UV light unsuitable. Use of sunless products eliminates the skin burns too.

Tanning commodities rejuvenate skin making it appear young and unwrinkled. This makes the body appear younger and beautiful. This is not the same case with sun bathing which causes direct damage to tissues that support skin. When supporting tissues get damaged, they age. Sun also causes fine wrinkles to form on the body something many people try to avoid.

The skin is also kept moisturized all day long by additional substances contained in them. However, one should know that commodities with moisturizers do not cause instant skin tan. Several days or application may be required for a full tan to be achieved. Such products offer the best option for people not in a hurry to get a tan, but require it to develop slowly over time.

Other additives of importance are sun protection compounds. Such additives protect the skin against harmful beams from the sun. These additives are particularly essential in areas with hot climates.




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