How to Choose A Sunless Tanner
Selecting Sunless Tanning Products That Are Right For You
Sunless tanning products are an easy way to achieve a beautiful tan without the damaging effects of the sun. Here, you learn how to choose the right product for you.
Sunless tanning products have been on the market since the early 1960s, when they first made their day-glo orange appearance. Sunless tanners have come a long way, not only in producing natural skin tone results, but they are available in many formulas. Whether you use sunless tanning lotions or gels, or sunless tanning foams, wipes, or sprays, creating a natural-looking tan doesn't have to involve streaky mishaps or oddly placed color swatches.
Choosing a Formula
The advancements in sunless tanning have come so far that nearly every cosmetic company provides a sunless tanning option. They are available in nearly every formula imaginable: lotions, gels, creams, sprays, and even sunless tanning wipes. But what ones work best? There is no simple answer, except to say that you should work with a product you feel most comfortable with.
Lotions and creams often take longer to dry, giving you more time to blend the product into the skin. Gels and wipes may dry faster, which means that they may work better for those who are experienced in application. Sprays are a nice option for those hard-to-reach areas, like the back of your legs or the middle of your back. Tinted sunless tanning products are becoming more popular, as they allow you to see where you have already applied and what areas you may have missed.
Regardless, you should always read the manufacturer's application instructions to make sure you are able to apply the product as directed.
When choosing a sunless tanning product for the face, it is important to select a product that is made for use on the facial area. Some products that are safe for use on the body may contain higher levels of fragrance or other irritants that may cause breakouts or bother your eyes. Most cosmetic companies offer alternatives for the face that compliment the color of their product for the body. When choosing a formula for the face, look for a formula that is non-comedogenic, which means it will not clog your pores.
Which Color Is Best For You?
If you are new to sunless tanning, the safest way to get comfortable with using the product is by choosing a shade that is the lightest option for your skin tone. Each brand will differ in color slightly, as well. Light to medium shades tend to look the most natural on the skin. If, after one application, the results are not dark enough for you, you can easily remedy this by applying the sunless tanner again. This will deepen the results. Then, when it is time to replenish your sunless tanning product, you can simply purchase the next darkest shade.
Regardless of what sunless tanning formula you choose, it is important to always use sunscreen when exposed to the sun. While tanning is your body's natural defense against burning, a sunless tan will not provide any protection whatsoever. Make sure you are using a sunscreen for both your face and body, and applying it as needed throughout the day. That way, your sunless tanning product can continue to offer you a safe alternative to the sun's harmful rays.
