🌞 A Summer Tan Without Sunbathing? Discover the Power of Self-Tanner

🌞 Een Zomerse Teint Zonder Zonnebaden? Ontdek de Kracht van Zelfbruiner

🌞 A Summer Tan Without Sunbathing? Discover the Power of Self-Tanner

Do you want a beautiful summer tan without spending hours baking in the sun?

Then a self-tanner is the perfect solution. As you probably know, prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to premature skin aging—think wrinkles, age spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Self-tanners offer a safe alternative. But how do they actually work? And are they truly safe? And what about sunscreen?

In this blog we explain everything in detail.


🔬 How does a self-tanner work?

Self-tanners contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a colorless substance that reacts with dead skin cells in the uppermost layer of the skin. This reaction—also known as the Maillard reaction —creates a tan on your skin, even without sunlight.

The colour develops gradually and usually becomes visible within a few hours of application.


⏱ Results within hours

After application, it usually takes 2 to 6 hours for a tan to develop. The final color depends on your skin tone, your skin's pH, and the amount of DHA in the product.

  • Fair skin? Choose a self-tanner with a lower DHA percentage for a subtle glow.

  • Want a deep tan? Use a product with more DHA.

The tan lasts an average of 5 to 10 days . Afterward, you can easily reapply to maintain your tan.


✅ Is self-tanner safe?

Good news: self-tanners are generally considered safe . The active ingredient DHA has been approved by the FDA (US) and the European Cosmetics Commission , among others.

However, there are a few points to consider:

  • Avoid contact with eyes, lips or mucous membranes.

  • Do not swallow.

  • Always test the product on a small area of skin first (for example, behind the ear or on the inside of your arm).

  • Exfoliate and moisturize your skin beforehand for an even and long-lasting result.

Our SolaVita Tanning Lotion is also enriched with vitamin E , which nourishes and hydrates your skin while tanning.

📖 Also read our blog: 10 tips for applying self-tanner


☀️ Self-tanner vs. sunbathing

Although there are no proven risks associated with DHA, the dangers of UV radiation are well known:

  • Skin aging

  • Pigment spots

  • Skin cancer

With a self-tanner, you achieve the same sun-kissed effect, but without the risk. Plus, you can control the color and enjoy a radiant glow even with sensitive or fair skin—without burning.


🌞 Will I still get a tan in the sun if I use self-tanner?

Yes, that's possible. Self-tanner only gives you a tan, but it doesn't protect your skin from UV rays . So you can still get burned. That's why it's important to always keep using sunscreen.

💡 Tip: Wait to apply sunscreen until your self-tanner has fully absorbed.


🧴 Don't forget your sunscreen

The tan you get from self-tanner doesn't offer UV protection. So always apply sunscreen when going outside—even in cloudy weather or while walking or cycling.


🛍 Buy self-tanner?

Are you convinced of the benefits? Then Tanning Glamour is the right place for you.
Our SolaVita Tanning Lotion :

  • Gives a natural, even complexion without sun

  • Suitable for body and face

  • Works within a few hours

  • Contains vitamin E for a cared for, soft skin

  • Suitable for light to medium skin types

✨ No sun needed — just radiant results.