What are the Different Types of Tanning Lotions?

There are a lot of women who want to have a perfect tan. However, many of them find it difficult to achieve this simply by bathing in the sun. That is one of the reasons why tanning lotions have become quite popular these past years. It definitely is great to be able to have an amazing tan simply by applying tanning lotions on your skin. Most sunless tanning lotions contain DHA or dihydroxyacetone. DHA is a colorless sugar that, when applied on the skin, reacts with the proteins and amino acids that are on the topmost layer of the skin. This interaction, in turn, will produce melanoidins or yellowish-brown pigments that will give the skin a tan color. The tan can last for about a week as it will fade when your skin sheds dead skin cells. Choosing the right product for you as there are various tanning lotions that are being sold today. Here are the different types of tanning lotions that you should consider using.

• Accelerators

An accelerator is the most common type of tanning lotion. Accelerators contain an ingredient called unipertan or tyrosine - an amino acid that stimulates natural pigment production particularly when exposed to UV light. Some tanning lotions of this kind also have melanin, green tea extract and natural oils. One of the reasons why you may want to use an accelerator is because it is good in moisturizing the skin and this is important as hydrated skin is able to tan better than dry skin.

• Bronzers

Bronzers are just like accelerators except that they work by giving the skin a tanned look instantly. There are two types of bronzers - Cosmetic Bronzer and sunless tanning agents. Cosmetic bronzers immediately makes the skin tan but it will wear off after a few showers. Sunless tanning agents meanwhile contain DHA - a colorless chemical - but unlike the cosmetic bronzer, it will take about two to three hours until you see results. Tanning through a DHA bronzer can last for four up to six days. When using a bronzer, it is important to make sure that it is evenly applied so as to prevent streaks. You should also wash your hands after application because it will turn orange if you don't.

• Tingle Lotion

This type of lotion is very effective in making the skin tan but it may not be for everyone as some may have allergic reactions to it. The lotion works by improving blood circulation and in turn, this will help in the skin's oxygenation. As a rule, the more oxygenated the skin is the faster it tans. Tingle lotions also give a warm effect on your skin making your tan look even better. It is also great to apply on parts of the body that have problems retaining color because of shaving and exfoliation. If you want to use a tingle tanning lotion, it is best to first test it on a small spot of your skin so as to see if you have any reactions to it.

These are some of the different types of tanning lotions. There are some people who do not use a sunscreen protection when they use a tanning lotion as they think that it may be unnecessary. However, it is very important that you use a lotion with SPF protection to protect your skin from UV rays.