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Saturday, October 17, 2015

Sunless Tanning Lotion Is A Safer Alternative

By Haywood Hunter


Sunny days create dangers that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Because the ozone layer that shields surface dwellers from solar radiation has been degraded, sunbathing has literally become hazardous, and now ranks with smoking as a known, preventable carcinogen. Those who actively avoid outdoor exposure increasingly turn to sunless tanning lotion as an alternative way to achieve a natural-looking tan without the risks.

Even though reports indicate that world-wide efforts to heal this atmospheric wound are gradually working, it will be decades before sunbathing becomes standard vacation behavior again in many countries. Using a specially formulated cream that is able to safely darken light skin areas is one way to avoid serious burns, as well as dangerous cell changes that accompany them.

Unprotected sunbathing affects the deepest layers of the epidermis in a relatively short time period, and the resulting radiation damage actually makes changes in DNA. To protect new skin cells, the body manufactures more melanin, the physical agent responsible for absorbing solar radiation. It is normally a dark brown or reddish color, and is what visually makes a tan golden brown.

Although that look is considered healthy and youthful, unseen cellular destruction is occurring. The most prevalent side-effects include permanent and premature skin wrinkling, a weakened immune system, and a greater chance of developing melanoma, an often-deadly skin cancer. Sunless tanning products employ chemical agents that mimic the natural process without as many dangers, even though they provide no actual screening protection.

When the first bronzing creams appeared during the 1960s, enthusiastic users commonly turned bright orange. Today, the formulations have been greatly improved, although a slightly orange undertone is still sometimes noticeable. In an effort to entice consumers, manufacturers have also created pills containing food coloring agents, but they have not been approved by the FDA, and some side effects are troubling.

Products proven safe for use contain DHA, or dihydroxyacetone. It is not an actual coloring agent, but a type of interactive sugar that encourages a chemical reaction with dead skin cells, resulting in darker tones. The effect lasts around one week before starting to fade, and must be consistently maintained. Some cases of eye irritation have been reported, but there is no danger of skin cancer or wrinkling.

Careless application may cause unattractive blotches or undesirable streaks. The products should not be combined with tan accelerators, which often only add to the ultraviolet damage. Outdoor activities will still require the use of sunscreens to prevent burning, no matter how dark the actual skin cells have become. Use the same levels of UV protection that proved effective prior to applying lotion.

Exfoliation is always recommended before use, and application to separate sections of skin brings better results. Wipe down the excess on knee and elbow joints to prevent lines, and allow a minimum of ten minutes drying time. Keep the lotion away from eyes, and never ingest tanning pills made with canthaxanthin. When compared to the dangers of radiation, sunless tanning is beneficial in the long run.




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