Sunless Tanning Lotion Is A Safer Alternative

By Haywood Hunter


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.

Even though reports indicate that world-wide efforts to heal this atmospheric wound are gradually working, it will be decades before sunbathing becomes standard vacation behavior again in many countries. Using a specially formulated cream that is able to safely darken light skin areas is one way to avoid serious burns, as well as dangerous cell changes that accompany them.

It does not take long for the epidermis to react to unfiltered sunlight, and without sunscreen any outdoor activity can encourage damage capable of altering DNA. In order to preserve and renew skin cells, the body manufactures a substance called melanin, designed to absorb radiation harmlessly. It is typically a dark red or brownish color, and is the agent that turns skin browner.

While it may look healthy, there is unseen damage occurring along with visible darkening. The most common long-term effects are skin wrinkling, an impaired immune system, and increased risk of melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer. Sunless tanning uses chemical agents to mimic the same physical process without as many immediate dangers, but do not create any long-term protection from future exposure.

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.

Products proven safe for use contain DHA, or dihydroxyacetone. It is not an actual coloring agent, but a type of interactive sugar that encourages a chemical reaction with dead skin cells, resulting in darker tones. The effect lasts around one week before starting to fade, and must be consistently maintained. Some cases of eye irritation have been reported, but there is no danger of skin cancer or wrinkling.

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.

Exfoliation is always recommended before use, and application to separate sections of skin brings better results. Wipe down the excess on knee and elbow joints to prevent lines, and allow a minimum of ten minutes drying time. Keep the lotion away from eyes, and never ingest tanning pills made with canthaxanthin. When compared to the dangers of radiation, sunless tanning is beneficial in the long run.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment