Types of sunless tanners

If getting the sun-kissed look is high on your priority list, slathering on a fake tan as a lotion, foam or spray is safer than basking in the sun because it doesn't put you at risk for skin cancer. The trick is applying it so it looks natural -- no streaks or orange colored skin. A professional spray tan is the most goof-proof way to go, but these can get expensive, and the resulting tan doesn't last any longer than it does with do-it-yourself sunless tanner products. Like the spray tans, foams and DIY sprays dry faster but aren't any easier to apply than lotions and creams. One option is going for a gradual self-tanning lotion, which uses a lower concentration of dye and can help minimize streaks and missed spots.

No matter which self tanner you choose, all contain the dyeing agent dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a harmless but smelly chemical that produces a scent when it comes in contact with your skin. The smell fades as the product dries, but self tanners vary in their level of initial and lingering stinkiness, which may or may not bother you.

Here are some other things to keep in mind about sunless tanners:

  • All sunless tanners use dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to temporarily color skin. Although this dye is considered safe, it does not offer protection from the sun's damaging rays. Experts urge consumers to top their faux tan with a sunscreen when outdoors (dermatologists currently suggest at least an SPF of 30). Also, beware of the SPF claims made by some sunless tanners. If your product doesn't list the ingredients titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone or Mexoryl SX (Tinosorb outside the U.S.), then it doesn't offer ample sun protection.
  • Bare, smooth skin offers the best base for a faux tan. To avoid an uneven application, shower, shave and exfoliate before you apply any self tanner, and apply it only to bare skin (hold off on makeup and moisturizers until after it dries). Failure to do so may cause uneven coverage. Also, go easy when applying to joints like elbows and knees. These areas possess rougher, more wrinkled skin, and oversaturation can result in darker color.
  • All sunless tanners can stain. For optimal results, give your tanner ample time to dry (carefully following the directions on the label) before dressing. Not one for waiting? Opt for a foam or spray formula, because these tanners dry faster than lotions. And don't forget to wash your hands immediately after application to avoid darker fingers and palms.
  • If you decide you can't wait for a sunless tan to fade on its own, reviewers recommend using St. Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Remover (*Est. $18 for 8 oz.) to remove color. You can also use this to clean your hands to avoid the tell-tale orange palms that can occur after application. A good exfoliating scrub can also speed the process. For smaller fixes, experts suggest using nail polish remover -- just be sure to rinse it off quickly.

Watch the video

To learn more, watch this About.com video on airbrush sunless tanning.

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