by 1 Cylivers
The tanned look is so much in vogue but is it wise any more to expose oneself to UV rays to get that tan? Well, the solution is to opt for products that will give you a sun-kissed look even as you avoid the Sun.
Self-tan products are available in various forms like creams, lotions, gels and sprays that can be used at home. They contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone, approved by the FDA) that reacts with the dead cells in the outer layer of the skin and in 8-24 hours gives a brown look to the skin. The effect is visible even within the first hour of application. When applied with tints or bronzers, the effect is even more immediate. However, the procedure must be repeated every week as the color fades away within 7 days.
Do ensure that you choose tones (light or medium) that complement your skin color. Remember to shave, wash and exfoliate your skin before you use the product. Spread the product evenly. Use the product sparingly on dry or thickened skin areas such as your ankles, knees and elbows as dry skin has more dead cells and absorbs a lot of DHA.
To avoid staining your palms and finger nails you can use cotton to apply the tanner. Otherwise plain water and soap will wash away the stain as the tanner takes about 20 minutes to dry completely.
The mist-on or spray tanning offered in most salons contain a mixture of DHA, bronzers and aloevera and are applied all over to give a more evenly tanned look. These tans are not a protection against the sunrays and you do need to use a good sun block when going out in the sun.
