Sunless tanning

Sunless tanning (also known as indoor tanning) refers to applying chemicals on the skin to produce an effect similar in appearance to a traditional suntan. A more common, although somewhat derisive term is fake tan. Sunless tanning arose in response to links between sun exposure and skin cancer discovered in the 1960s, along with other alternatives to natural sun tanning such as the use of a sunbed.

Related Topics:
Suntan - Skin cancer - 1960s - Sun tanning - Sunbed

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According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the most effective products available are sunless- or self-tanning lotions that contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA) as the active ingredient. DHA is a colorless sugar that interacts with the dead cells located in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. As the sugar interacts with the dead skin cells, a color change occurs. This change usually lasts about five to seven days from the initial application.

Related Topics:
American Academy of Dermatology - Dihydroxyacetone - Epidermis

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Although gels, lotions or sprays that contain DHA are said to be the most reliable and useful, there are dozens of other types of products on the market. Tanning accelerators -- lotions or pills that usually contain the amino acid tyrosine -- claim that they stimulate and increase melanin formation, thereby accelerating the tanning process. At this time, there is no scientific data available to support these claims.

Related Topics:
Tyrosine - Melanin

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Another sunless-tanning product is a tanning pill that contains canthaxanthin, which is most commonly used as a color additive in certain foods. Although the FDA has approved the use of canthaxanthin in food, it does not approve its use as a tanning agent. When used as a color additive, only very small amounts of canthaxanthin are necessary. As a tanning agent, however, much larger quantities are used. After canthaxanthin is consumed, it is deposited all over your body, including in your skin, which turns an orange-brown color. These types of tanning pills have been linked to various side effects, including hepatitis and canthaxanthin retinopathy, a condition in which yellow deposits form in the retina of the eye.

Related Topics:
Canthaxanthin - Hepatitis - Retinopathy

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Another popular form of sunless tanning is the bronzer. These powders and moisturizers, once applied, create a tan that can easily be removed with soap and water. More like make-up, these products tint or stain your skin only until they are washed off.

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