Not All Tanning Salon Lotions Are Created Equal

Tanning salon lotions are products applied directly to the skin in order to produce a tan. These products contain chemicals that safely bring out the desired bronze color in the human skin. The use of tanning salon lotions is considered as a method of sunless tanning or self-tanning. There are many different forms of tanning salon lotions, each with its unique mode of action. These are presented below.

DHA-Based Products

Currently, the most effective tanning lotions are those that contain the active ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (DHA). The bronzing effect caused by these lotions is neither a dye nor stain. Instead, it is a chemical reaction between the DHA and the amino acids found in the dead skin layers. This process does not require the intervention of ultraviolet ray exposure. As it is not skin pigmentation, the color produced is temporary and will eventually fade after three to 10 days.

Some DHA-based lotions contain erythrulose. This chemical has the same action as that of DHA only; the production of the bronze effect takes much longer. It has been determined that the combined use of DHA and erythrulose produces a longer lasting tan.

DHA- and erythrulose-based lotions have been found to cause contact dermatitis. Because of this, first time users should first test their skin’s compatibility to these products. They can do this by first applying the lotion to a small patch on the skin and wait for 24 hours. If no irritating skin reaction has formed, the user can proceed with a full body application of the lotion.

These lotions require the user to wait for a period of one to six hours to facilitate absorption into the skin. Increased amounts of DHA and erythrulose are absorbed in thick skinned areas such as on palms and the soles of the feet. These areas should therefore be skipped or cleaned right after application.

Tanning Accelerators

Aside from the aforementioned products, there are also lotions that contain tyrosine, an amino acid. Tyrosine-based lotions are used in conjunction with UV exposure. These types of lotions enhance the production of melanin during the artificial sun tanning process.

Tyrosine-based lotions are able to retain the produced melanin longer in the skin by replacing lost amino acids and by slowing down the exfoliation process. Although they inhibit exfoliation, tyrosine allows the shedding of harmful free radicals. Tyrosine binds to the molecules of free radicals to facilitate their peeling off.

Tyrosine lotions can be used before and after a sun tanning procedure. Lotions applied beforehand serve to enhance melanin production and to protect the skin from excessive UV radiation. On the other hand, lotions applied after the procedure moisturize and help the skin recover from UV ray sessions.

Temporary Bronzers

As the name implies, temporary bronzers provide a temporary browning solution to individuals. The tan produced from the use of temporary bronzing lotions is good for only a day. The color change can be easily removed with soap and water, so it is absolutely prohibited to take a bath or to go swimming after application. As the color is a potent stain, applying the lotion under clothing is not advisable.