Many had completely given up sunbathing and switched to the use of fake tanning lotions. These topical solutions can darken the skin effectively minus UV radiation exposure. Using them allows for a lovely bronzed complexion without risking the health.
Most of today's fake tanning lotions rely on DHA, something extracted from sugar cane. This naturally-existing chemical is mild and suited for all skin types. For your peace of mind, DHA has the approval of the US Food and Drug Administration.
The spotlight was first placed on fake tanning lotions in the 60s. It was during that time when health experts started to advise the public against sunbathing as researches had found a link between UV radiation and deadly skin cancer. However, many were not happy with the kind of skin tone produced by fake tanning lotions back then because it was obviously artificial.
Since then, fake tanning lotions have come a long way in terms of formulation. These at-home solutions have greatly improved. They are capable of giving you the kind of complexion that results from lying in the sun for hours. Various manufacturers are forced to offer top-notch products in order to survive in the highly competitive industry they belong to.
No UV light exposure is necessary when using fake tanning lotions because the complexion change they bring about has nothing to do with melanin. Instead of causing this type of pigment to multiply just like what happens when you sunbathe, dead cells sitting on the skin are forced to assume a brown color. Such reaction is possible because of the presence of DHA.
DHA used by fake tanning lotions produces a visible change in skin tone about 3 hours after the initial application. Expect the color to intensify even more after 24-72 hours, depending on the base complexion of users. For many days, DHA's effect may be enjoyed. The simulated sun-kissed glow eventually fades as the topmost layer of dead skin cells is sloughed off naturally.
When smeared on the skin, fake tanning lotions immediately cause visible darkening. This is possible because there are also brown dyes present. Manufacturers include them in the formulation to facilitate the application and prevent ugly blotches from forming. While DHA's effect lasts for about 10 days, the stain left by brown dyes can be easily removed with water.
It's important for fake tanning lotions to be applied on the skin as evenly as possible to come up with a realistic tan. Because DHA works on dead skin cells present, exfoliating in the shower before using these at-home solutions has to be done to eliminate excess ones. Doing so also removes oils and chemicals from skincare products so that nothing interferes with DHA's action.
Don't assume that all fake tanning lotions currently available are the same. Ask around for a few recommendations before you decide to order a bottle. Find out which brands are being used by indoor tan fanatics you know in person. The internet is a place where you can read tons of product reviews. Check out informative and unbiased ones that are written and posted by real-life users. Consider their findings and observations so that you may have an idea which brand to get.
