It is a common fact that sun exposure is the cause of 95% of wrinkles and other visible signs of aging, but avoiding the sun can be difficult, especially when you are being tempted by the thought of sporting a bronzed, glowing tan. Fortunately, when it comes to getting a tan, there are a number of options out there that do not involve the harmful rays of the sun, enabling you to boast a golden summer glow without any of the pesky wrinkles that this usually causes.
Self-Tanning Lotions
Self-tanning lotions are easily available and contain DHA, otherwise known as Dihydroxyacetone. DHA is able to react with the outer layer of the skin, which usually mostly consists of dead skin cells, to give the skin some color. Since they are lotion-based, these formulas are usually quite moisturizing and are great for those with dry skin. They are also quite easy to apply, any mistakes that are made during application can usually be corrected before the product dries and sets.
Instant Tanners
Instant tanners work in a similar way to makeup in that they deliver instant results that can then be washed away at the end of the day. Since instant tanners do not contain DHA, it is not possible for the results to be long-lasting, but the convenience of being able to have an instant tan whenever it is needed makes these products quite popular.
Spray Tans
Spray tanning formulas come in a variety of shades, and there are several ways in which a spray tan can be applied, whether via airbrushing in a salon booth or in the comfort of your own home. Spray tanning formulas contain DHA, meaning that the results are longer lasting, but the FDA has not yet approved this method of applying DHA, meaning that there are still concerns about the safety of this method when it comes to absorbing or inhaling an excess amount of this chemical. Airbrushing is usually the safest, although most expensive, method of spray tanning, resulting in an even and natural-looking glow in just a few hours.
Gradual Tanning Lotions
Unlike the standard tanning lotions, gradual tanning lotions contain a smaller amount of DHA, and this is because these products are designed to be applied every day so that the color is able to build up slowly. Gradual tanners are great for those who want more of a subtle glow, as the results are not instant or dramatic, and this also means that any mistakes or pesky streaks are much less noticeable.
The concept of tanned skin being fashionable first came about in the 1920’s, when French style icon Coco Chanel came home with tanned skin after cruising from Paris to Cannes. While she did admit that this was due to her receiving excess sun exposure, this has not prevented the popularity of golden tans from sky-rocketing. While there may not have been any sunless tanning options available during Coco Chanel’s time, there are so many to choose from now, making it extremely easy to get your tan while avoiding the wrinkles.
