Sunny days create dangers that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Because the ozone layer that shields surface dwellers from solar radiation has been degraded, sunbathing has literally become hazardous, and now ranks with smoking as a known, preventable carcinogen. Those who actively avoid outdoor exposure increasingly turn to sunless tanning lotion as an alternative way to achieve a natural-looking tan without the risks.
Although efforts to ban the use of specific aerosols have been surprisingly effective in reversing ozone deterioration, unprotected sun bathing will still pose a problem for many decades, if not centuries. The use of lotions to create dark color within lighter skin cells eliminates the need for outdoor exposure, and reduces the amount of skin cell alteration caused by ultraviolet radiation.
Unprotected sunbathing affects the deepest layers of the epidermis in a relatively short time period, and the resulting radiation damage actually makes changes in DNA. To protect new skin cells, the body manufactures more melanin, the physical agent responsible for absorbing solar radiation. It is normally a dark brown or reddish color, and is what visually makes a tan golden brown.
Although that look is considered healthy and youthful, unseen cellular destruction is occurring. The most prevalent side-effects include permanent and premature skin wrinkling, a weakened immune system, and a greater chance of developing melanoma, an often-deadly skin cancer. Sunless tanning products employ chemical agents that mimic the natural process without as many dangers, even though they provide no actual screening protection.
Early adapters of bronzing agents introduced sixty years ago sometimes turned bright orange, to their chagrin. Products available today mostly avoid that consequence, although some can still create a florid appearance if not used carefully. In order to attract more customers, some manufacturers have turned to pills infused with food colors unapproved for this type of use or level of consumption, and which can produce alarming side effects.
The safest products for topical application contain dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. This is not a coloring, but a type of sugar that interacts with outer layers of dead skin cells, and the resulting chemical reaction produces the color. It lasts around a week before noticeably fading, and needs consistent reapplication for maintenance. While it can irritate the eyes if used carelessly, it does not cause premature aging or increase cancer risks.
Careless application may cause unattractive blotches or undesirable streaks. The products should not be combined with tan accelerators, which often only add to the ultraviolet damage. Outdoor activities will still require the use of sunscreens to prevent burning, no matter how dark the actual skin cells have become. Use the same levels of UV protection that proved effective prior to applying lotion.
Before using a cream or gel product exfoliate thoroughly, and then spread the substance evenly over small adjacent patches of skin. To prevent lines, wipe down elbows and knees, and allow at least ten minutes for drying. Avoid eye contact, and do not be tempted to try products in pill form containing canthaxanthin. When compared to the consequences of actual radiation, the use of lotions or creams is a far healthier alternative.
Although efforts to ban the use of specific aerosols have been surprisingly effective in reversing ozone deterioration, unprotected sun bathing will still pose a problem for many decades, if not centuries. The use of lotions to create dark color within lighter skin cells eliminates the need for outdoor exposure, and reduces the amount of skin cell alteration caused by ultraviolet radiation.
Unprotected sunbathing affects the deepest layers of the epidermis in a relatively short time period, and the resulting radiation damage actually makes changes in DNA. To protect new skin cells, the body manufactures more melanin, the physical agent responsible for absorbing solar radiation. It is normally a dark brown or reddish color, and is what visually makes a tan golden brown.
Although that look is considered healthy and youthful, unseen cellular destruction is occurring. The most prevalent side-effects include permanent and premature skin wrinkling, a weakened immune system, and a greater chance of developing melanoma, an often-deadly skin cancer. Sunless tanning products employ chemical agents that mimic the natural process without as many dangers, even though they provide no actual screening protection.
Early adapters of bronzing agents introduced sixty years ago sometimes turned bright orange, to their chagrin. Products available today mostly avoid that consequence, although some can still create a florid appearance if not used carefully. In order to attract more customers, some manufacturers have turned to pills infused with food colors unapproved for this type of use or level of consumption, and which can produce alarming side effects.
The safest products for topical application contain dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. This is not a coloring, but a type of sugar that interacts with outer layers of dead skin cells, and the resulting chemical reaction produces the color. It lasts around a week before noticeably fading, and needs consistent reapplication for maintenance. While it can irritate the eyes if used carelessly, it does not cause premature aging or increase cancer risks.
Careless application may cause unattractive blotches or undesirable streaks. The products should not be combined with tan accelerators, which often only add to the ultraviolet damage. Outdoor activities will still require the use of sunscreens to prevent burning, no matter how dark the actual skin cells have become. Use the same levels of UV protection that proved effective prior to applying lotion.
Before using a cream or gel product exfoliate thoroughly, and then spread the substance evenly over small adjacent patches of skin. To prevent lines, wipe down elbows and knees, and allow at least ten minutes for drying. Avoid eye contact, and do not be tempted to try products in pill form containing canthaxanthin. When compared to the consequences of actual radiation, the use of lotions or creams is a far healthier alternative.
About the Author: Haywood Hunter
Our most popular sunless tanning lotion is in stock again and can be ordered online. Come and read the reviews about our sunless tanning spray by logging on to the website.
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