Are sunless tanning products safe? Bronzers, self-tanners and spray tanners have not been shown to pose a health risk and are considered safe to use – if they're applied correctly and carefully. They should only be applied externally to the skin and should not be used near your lips, mouth and nose or around your eyes.
You should always choose a self tanner that has been made for your face, they're generally more hydrating and noncomedogenic - meaning they are formulated in a way that is not likely going to leave you with blocked pores.
If you're a fan of fake tanning, we come bearing good news. The common consensus among dermatologists is that self-tanners are a safe way to achieve a golden glow. Particularly when compared with the very real risk of unprotected sun exposure.
The active ingredient in most self-tanners, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), reacts with amino acids on the skin's surface to create a bronzed look. However, this reaction also generates free radicals, which contribute to oxidative stress, collagen breakdown, and premature aging.
Self Tanner
“Self-tanning lotions are a safe alternative to tanning beds and sun exposure, and they work by temporarily staining the outermost layer of the skin with a color additive called dihydroxyacetone (DHA),” notes Aimee Carr, an esthetician, makeup artist, and founder of Voodoo Makeup.
Our favorite facial self-tanner is the Lux Unfiltered N°12 Bronzing Face Drops. It's simple and easy, looks natural on the skin, and can be built up depending on how many drops you use. But if you're looking for an affordable option that you can pick up at the drugstore, we love the Sol by Jergens Deeper By The Drop.
The only way to tan safely is by using self-tanning sprays or lotions. Fortunately, self-tanners have come a long way since the days when they left skin streaky and the color of orange cheese-puffs. Self-tanning products are safe and generally don't cause irritation to the skin.
what happens if i forget to shower off the tan? the longer you keep the tan on, the darker it will get. however, some skin types may experience discoloration (looking a bit orange or yellow) if left on too long past around 8 hours. you may also get a streaky tan as you're more likely to rub or wash off some sections.
The short answer is: it depends on the product you use. Many self-tanners on the market contain ingredients that can potentially clog pores or irritate the skin, leading to breakouts.
Common Dyes In Self Tanners
Coal Tar Dyes, FD&C Red 40, FD&C Yellow 5, and FD&C Blue 1. Cosmetic dyes are linked to some serious side effects, as well as skin irritation, itching, and rashes.
I have found the best lotions to use are Aveeno, Cetaphil, Hempz, and CeraVe. Lotions with perfumes contain high alcohol levels and tend to dry out the skin.
A: Yes. Age spots can be either light (hypopigmentation) or dark (hyperpigmentation), says Wendy E. Roberts, MD, assistant clinical professor of medicine at Loma Linda University. A self-tanning cream can darken both kinds.
Because your face is (generally) less covered up than the rest of your body, and if you have a rigorous skincare routine, you might find that the self tan on your face fades quicker than your body.
Exfoliate your face the day before application
Exfoliating your face before applying fake tan is the best way to give your skin a fresh base for a flawless self-tan. By removing dead skin cells and impurities, you create a smooth and even surface that allows the self-tanner to adhere better and prevent patchiness.
Once you have washed off your fake tan moisturise your skin daily to increase the longevity of your tan. Dry, dehydrated skin will cause your dead skin cells to shed quicker, taking the fake tan you worked so hard for with it. Use an oil-free moisturiser as oil can break down the product [2].
Experience a golden tan every time with Bondi Sands Aero Liquid Gold Self Tanning Foam. Enriched with Argan Oil and infused with the scent of coconut, this ultra lightweight aerosol foam will develop into a golden tan that is touch dry in seconds and requires no wash off.
For a deeper and longer lasting glow, let your fake tan develop for 6-8 hours before washing it off. If you are going for a more natural glow, 2-3 hours is ideal. Just remember to avoid contact with water in the initial stages after applying fake tan to your face.
If your skin isn't sensitive or prone to breakouts, you can use a self-tan formulated for the body — but Evans recommends diluting it with your favorite facial moisturizer before application. Board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, agrees.
Best Overall: Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops, $50. Best Mist: St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist, $33. Best Shade Range: Isle of Paradise Face Self-Tanning Glow Drops, $29.
But Wong says it's unlikely that any skin aging effect would be pronounced. "The human studies so far have found that DHA mostly reacts in the top layers of the skin, which are dead. In skin aging, the concern is excessive free radicals forming deeper in the dermal layers of skin where collagen and elastin are."
Compared to the rest of the body, skin on the legs does not produce the same amount of melanin, which results in legs getting less tan. Skin on the legs is thicker and harder and the UV light from the sun or sunbeds cannot easily penetrate it.