Tanning Tools & Products

Tanning is the process of darkening the skin through the sun or through artificial sources that emit ultraviolet radiation. There is no better way to show off a summer body than to have beautifully tanned skin. However, there are many concerns, such as skin cancer, associated with tanning directly under the sun and in tanning beds. Today, there are many tanning products that contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the only approved self-tanning ingredient by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as of March 2011. These products will enable you to tan safely without the risks involved. Does this Spark an idea?

Tanning Lotions

Tanning lotions with dihydroxyacetone (DHA) are convenient and easy to use. Applying these lotions on the body will produce a tan that looks real and healthy, and these tans usually last more than a month. Lotions can also come in different textures such as mousse, gels and heavy creams. There are many products that use DHA along with other tan-enhancing ingredients to make tanning more easily and healthfully achieved. SkinCeutical's Sans Soleil combines DHA and erythrulose, which the company claims enhances DHA and doesn't dry the skin. Another tanning lotion is Avene's Sun Care Moisturizing Self-Tanning Lotion, which contains thermal spring water that aims to soften the skin while tanning.

Sunless Tanning Airbrush

Airbrush tanners usually have the same active ingredients as the tanning lotions, with the difference being that they can be sprayed on the entire body. The airbrush approach to sunless tanning is aimed to make application of tanning products easier and more even around the body. Spraying on the product will ensure the product reaches hard-to-reach parts of the body such as the back. There are many manufacturers who offer airbrush tanning, such as Aqua Sun Sunless Tanning Airbrush System, Luminess Tan and Oasis Airbrush Tanning System.

Makeup Bronzers

Perhaps the safest way to tan, a bronzing powder is makeup that is designed to make you look bronzed or tanned, especially in the face. It lasts only until you wash it off, however, so this is for those who want to look for a special occasion. Bronzers for the face and body are applied using a large makeup brush. Many makeup brands offer bronzing powders in varying shades such as the Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder from Eyes Lips Face cosmetics and Product Reviews

Sephora Collection's Sun Disk bronzer.

Other Products and Accessories

There are some products and accessories you can use to make tanning even more effective. It is highly recommended to exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells before tanning to ensure an even tan. You can use body scrubs and facial scrubs along with cotton washcloths. For a more effective exfoliation, use scrubs with alpha hydroxy acid, or AHA. Having gloves are also essential especially if you are using a tanning lotion. Buy disposable gloves to use when applying the lotion.