Fake Tan

Sunless Tanning The Safe Way

Everyone knows the dangers of tanning with UV light.  Not only can it give us skin cancer but after a number of years sun worshiping we will have skin comparable to that of a crocodile.  This is why doctors and beauty experts alike are recommending that we all use a sunless tanning lotion over a natural suntan.  Simply follow our instructions for applying a fake tan.

How Does Fake Tan Work?

Fake tan was developed back in the 1960s by using a chemical called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA).  It reacts to the amino acids in our skin (the outer dead layer) and turns it a "tan" colour.  Since then there have been other methods such as Bronzers (dyes), Accelerators (tyrosine and psoralens), plus tanning pills (best to be avoided).

Is it Safe?

Fake tan, like any other lotion or potion we put on our skin, can cause an allergic reaction in certain people.  If you are prone to skin allergies then you should only put fake tan on a small patch of skin to test.

There are some concerns with pregnant women, this is only because scientists are yet to agree whether lotions/gels/oils (not just fake-tan) applied to the skin can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

What is the Best Fake Tan?

There's a lot of choice when it comes to buying fake tan products.  A lot of people prefer to go with brands that have been written about in beauty magazines or are used by celebrities.  Brands include Fake Bake, St Tropez, Clarins and Clinique.  It is a good idea to ask your friends what they use or to read consumer reviews on the internet.

Each person will react differently to each product available.  If you have very pale skin the buying a light fake tan such as Clarins Self-tanning Milk or tinted moisturiser is a good idea.  On the other hand if you already have fairly dark skin then you can afford to try a darker tan such as Fake Bake.