Tanning lotion formulas that are DHA based are one the safest forms of indoor tanning products. DHA, or dihydroxyacetone if you prefer, is a sugar that changes the color of your dead cells on the surface of your skin. Because the chemicals do not get into your body past the outer most layer of skin, there is little danger in using the product. Of course there use to be rumors that tanning lotions would turn your skin orange, which was because earlier versions contained too much DHA but today the formula has been refined with lower levels of DHA.

Since the product works on your dead skin cells, and your dead cells are being worn off daily, it is recommended that you reapply the tanning lotion every three days to maintain a constant tan. Otherwise, the resulting coloration you get from the lotion will last about five to seven days.

Since the effects of the chemicals dont go beyond the layer of dead skin cells, there are very little adverse effects of using tanning lotions. The only known side effect is a possible allergic reaction that causes irritation to the skin which can be treated with home remedy products. Obviously discontinue use if you do experience any reaction to the chemicals.

Its important to test the formula if it is a new brand that you are trying for the first time. You can do this by applying a small amount to a small patch of skin and let it sit for twenty four hours to see if your skin reacts adversely. Obviously if there is an allergic reaction you will not only want to discontinue use but remember to never go near that particular brand again. This is a good way to find out if you are allergic to the product before applying to your entire body.

The tan you achieve through using self-tanning products is not the same tan of a naturally dark skinned person whose tan comes from melanin in the skin which protects the skin from the UV rays.So the tan will not offer any resistance to UV rays the way a natural tan would, since its not real.

This is important because your fake tan will offer no protection from the sun. Nor will your tanning lotion unless it is specifically labeled as such. In many cases it is important to remember to apply sun block if you are planning to be outdoors and exposed to a lot of sun.

Many tanning lotions today also serve moisturizing purposes to keep your skin from getting too dry throughout the day. A naturally dark skinned person gets their tan from the melanin in the skin, which is constantly produced with or without direct exposure to the sun. Light skinned people get a tan from sunbathing because the UV rays trigger the production of melanin, which gives the skin the color but also dries the skin.

Tags: Skin Care and Acne