How does a self-tanner work? Tan without the sun and a sunbed

How does a self-tanner work? Tan without the sun

Want a beautiful summer tan without spending hours in the sun? Then a self-tanner is the ideal solution! As we all know, prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun can be harmful to your skin. Not only does it increase the risk of skin cancer, but it also contributes to premature skin aging, such as wrinkles and pigment spots. Luckily, a self-tanner is a great alternative to get a natural tan without the harmful effects of the sun.

How exactly does a self-tanner work?

Self-tanners work simply and safely thanks to the active ingredient DHA (dihydroxyacetone). This colorless substance reacts with the dead skin cells on the top of your skin, creating a brown tint. This reaction is also called the Maillard reaction. The result? A natural tan that does not require harmful UV radiation.

When will I see results?

After applying a self-tanner, you will not immediately see a brown tint. It takes a few hours for the color to become visible. Most people notice a beautiful, summery tan after one to a few hours. The final color can vary, depending on your skin color and the pH value of your skin. In addition, the higher the percentage of DHA, the darker the result. Do you have light skin? Then choose a self-tanner with a lower DHA percentage for a subtle color.

In general, the color of a self-tanner remains visible for 1 to 2 weeks. After that, you can reapply the product to maintain your color.

Are self-tanners safe?

Good news: self-tanners are generally considered safe! The substance DHA has been approved by major regulatory authorities, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Cosmetics Commission. Of course, there are always precautions. Make sure you don’t swallow the self-tanner or get it in your eyes, as this can cause irritation. There is also a small chance that you are allergic to one of the ingredients. That’s why we always recommend testing the self-tanner on a small, inconspicuous area of ​​skin first, such as behind your ear or on the inside of your upper arm.

Tips for the best results

Good preparation is half the battle! Exfoliate your skin before applying self-tanner to remove dead skin cells. Then hydrate your skin well, so you get an even and long-lasting tan. For more tips on applying self-tanner, also read our blog: 10 tips for applying self - tanner .

Baking in the sun versus self-tanners

Self-tanners are the perfect solution for those who want a beautiful tan without the risk of sun damage. Unlike sunbathing, which can lead to skin damage and premature aging, a self-tanner is a safe way to achieve the desired tan. In addition, you can adjust the shade to your own skin color and preference. And even for people who have difficulty tanning or always burn, a self-tanner is the perfect solution!

Always use sunscreen

Important to know: the brown color you get from a self-tanner does not offer protection against harmful UV rays. So always make sure you use sunscreen when you are outside. This also applies if you are not actively in the sun, but for example walking or cycling. Wait to apply sunscreen until the self-tanner has been properly absorbed and you have achieved the desired color.

Buy self-tanner

Want to try a self-tanner yourself? Then Tanning Glamour is the right place for you! Our SolaVita Tanning Lotion is a high-quality self-tanner that provides a beautiful, natural complexion without having to bake in the sun for hours. This lotion is suitable for light to medium skin types and can be used on both the face and body.