What is Sunless Tanning?

Sunless tanning, as the name implies, includes any method of tanning the skin that does not involve exposure to the harmful rays of the sun. These methods may include sunless tanning lotions and sunless spay tanning, among others. The use of tanning beds should not be considered as a method of sunless tanning, as the skin is still exposed to potentially harmful rays.
Many people enjoy skin tanning, as they feel more attractive when their skin has a healthy glow. Some people even go so far as to say they feel healthier when they appear to be tanned. While some may prefer to use sunless tanning lotions, others may prefer to use sunless spray tanning to achieve an all-over and even tan.
Sunless Spray Tanning
Sunless spray tanning methods use mist application or airbrushing to achieve an even, full body tan. Many dermatologists consider sunless spray tanning to be the safest method for achieving a tan. Booths or beds are used to apply an even coat of a substance known as dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to your skin. It is fast, painless and safe and provides excellent results without the dangers of sunbathing. During your tanning session, goggles are provided to protect your eyes from DHA. You should refrain from licking your lips or purposefully inhaling while using a sunless spray tanning bed or booth. Afterwards, you should avoid showering, bathing or swimming for several hours to let your tan "set". For people with very fair skin or who burn easily, sunless spray tanning can provide the cure to past white skin.
Sunless Tanning Lotions
Sunless tanning lotions come in a variety of shades and tones to help you achieve a natural-looking tan. It is important to prepare your skin before applying a sunless tanning lotion as this will help to ensure great looking results. To prepare your skin, you will want to shave and moisturize your skin, beginning at least two days before you apply the product you have chosen. Pay special attention to your elbows, knees and other areas where skin is dry and rough, as tanning lotions will congregate in these areas. It is important to test a small amount of product on a hidden and small area of skin first to be sure that the color and tone is right for you and that you don't react adversely to the product. If you are very fair skinned, choose a product that has a low level of DHA. Apply the product slowly and evenly. You should rub the sunless tanning lotion into your skin thoroughly. Afterwards, you should keep your skin well moisturized to help your tan last as long as possible. Skin care for sunless tanning is the most important step to maintaining your tan.
Some of the best rated sunless tanning lotions come from Estee Lauder, Nivea, Aveeno, Jergens, L'Oreal, St. Tropez and Neutrogena. They are rated highly due to their moisturizing ability and ease of application. They range in price; most can be purchased from a drugstore or online easily and affordably.
Sunless tanning presents a safe alternative to tanning in the sun, reducing your risk of developing skin cancer. Sunless spray tanning and sunless tanning lotions are two popular alternatives to outdoor sun tanning. Whichever method you choose, do your homework and know your product to achieve the look you desire.