Why is it that people prize sun-kissed tan skin? Being tan can socially signify that one has had time to spend outdoors . . . doing some form of leisure activity like bicycling, tennis, or golfing. Or it may be a way to show off that one has been on vacation. Still, others may feel that a suntan can help to give the illusion of a slimmer appearance. And some may feel that being tan signifies that you are in good health.
One thing that we do know in dermatology is that Ultraviolet (UV) exposure not only may result in a sun tan, but also increases other things such as accelerated skin aging with fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and also increases the risk of skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. So, what can we use to achieve the tanned look without causing damage to our skin? One option is to use a self-tanner.
What is a Self-Tanner?
Self-tanners are products applied to the skin to create a temporary tan. They are available in many different forms including creams, gels, lotions, sprays, and foams. They are most commonly applied at home but may also be applied professionally as well. Most self-tanners contain an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is a sugar substance, which reacts with amino acids in the outermost top later of the skin, producing melanoidins which are brown pigments that mimic a suntan.
Because the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, sheds skin cells every day, the tanning effect of a self-tanner is always temporary, lasting only five to seven days before being completely exfoliated unless it is re-applied.
How Can You Get The Most Out Of A Self-Tanner?
If you want to maximize the life of your self-tanners, here are some tips to make it last as long as possible:
- Exfoliate gently with a loofah sponge or exfoliating gloves to help prepare the skin for a more even application and absorption.
- Apply a moisturizer after each shower to keep the skin supple.
- Use a high-quality product that contains skin nourishing ingredients.
- Pat your skin dry with a towel after showering to avoid rubbing.
- Consider a mid-week touch-up or add a small amount of product to your moisturizer to help boost the pigment.
Depending upon the type of product, they can be re-applied daily or every few days to a week to maintain the color. Go easy with the application over areas that tend to be drier such as the tops of the toes, ankles, knees, and elbows. Some find it helpful to use an applicator or even a long-handled paint brush for hard-to-reach areas such as the center or upper back.
Are Self-Tanners Safe?
The short answer is, yes! When used as directed, they can be a preferable alternative to traditional tanning or tanning because they do not utilize harmful UV rays to achieve the desired results. However, there are a few considerations to be taken into account before beginning to use them. People with sensitive skin can be more prone to skin irritation or even allergic reactions to these types of products. If you are prone to skin sensitivity, you may wish to try it out first on a small area of the body for a week before applying it widespread. If you begin to experience signs of a reaction such as itching, redness, inflammation, or any other unusual symptoms, discontinue use immediately.
Take care not to accidentally get the self-tanner in your eyes, nose, mouth, or on your lips, especially when using spray tans. Be careful not to inhale spray tans or self-tanning products during application as this can irritate the airway and exacerbate breathing problems such as asthma. Be aware that self-tanning does not protect against UV damage to the skin. So, if you choose to use a product pre-vacation, for example, you still need to follow good sun protection by using sunscreen, hats, and sun protective clothing.
Come and See The Derm NP!
As a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner, The Derm NP is available to answer skin care questions that you may have. For example, if you have acne, or sensitive skin, we are ready to consult with you on sunscreen options that may most meet your needs. Or, maybe you are looking for options to offer the best anti-aging benefits for your skin. For just $37 for a telehealth visit, you can rest assured that you are getting skincare advice from an expert without breaking the bank.