Tanning Products for Tanning Bed

According to the Indoor Tanning Association (ITA), moderate tanning, for individuals who can develop a tan, may minimize the risk of contracting sunburn while maximizing the enjoyment and benefit of having a tan. The American Academy of Dermatologists disagree, however, saying "indoor tanning is an unhealthy activity and UV radiation exposure increases one's risk of skin cancer."



Still, 30 million Americans visit tanning salons each year, according to the ITA. For those who still plan to deepen their skin tone, there are many products made to use in tanning beds. Choosing the right type of product will help you get the most out of a tanning session, and can preserve your color. Does this Spark an idea?

Moisturizing and Amplifying

Products made for indoor tanning all contain moisturizing ingredients. These products can be used before, during and after tanning. Exotic oils, extracts and botanicals provide moisturizing benefits to help counteract the drying effect of the sun lamps.

Moisturizing oils in different brands include grape seed, hemp seed, sunflower seed, olive, black currant, kukui, and carrot seed oil. Many of these moisturizing oils are used in formulas called tan amplifiers. When used while tanning, they reduce the skin's capacity for reflection, allowing more ultraviolet light to penetrate the skin.

Tan Extenders

Some products go a step beyond moisturizing and contain ingredients to help deepen a tan's color. The darkening effect will last a few days after your tanning session. These products are called tan extenders, sunless tanners or self-tanners. A darker color is produced when the product interacts with the protein on the surface of the skin. Look for products that contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers to be the most effective sun-free tanning additive.

Tan Accelerators

Some indoor tanning lotions called tan accelerators contain the amino acid tyrosine or its derivatives. These products claim to stimulate the body's own tanning process. Some products that contain this ingredient claim to maximize ultraviolet absorption through increasing melanin formation and accelerating the tanning process, when used in conjunction with ultraviolet exposure. However, the American Cancer Society cautions users and says that these products are not effective and may be dangerous.

Additional Skin Benefits

Some indoor tanning products, especially high-end brands, typically contain additional ingredients for even more skin benefits. They are meant to be used before, during and after tanning.

Products that claim antioxidant benefits, such as slowing the aging process by helping to repair skin damage, often contain green tea extract, white tea extract or acai oil. Diminishing fine lines and wrinkles might be achieved with a formula that includes vitamin E. Caffeine is used to provide firming or toning benefits. Products that include CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10) or collagen might claim to improve the skin's texture.