Everything you wanted to know about self-tanning: is it possible to sunbathe with it, is it harmful to the skin and much more interesting things

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Traditionally, we sincerely sympathize with everyone who is stuck in dusty and hot cities in the summer. After all, this is the time for hiking, bivouacs in nature, gentle sea waves splashing near the shore and persistent rays of sunshine, inexorably making our skin darker and our thoughts happier. However, such a pleasure as a beautiful natural tan is not available to every beauty who wants to look attractive, well-groomed, and fashionable at all costs, because business can keep us in the city, but work does not allow us to go to the beach and lie around to our heart's content. scorching rays.

If previously you could only shrug your shoulders and sit in a stuffy office, covering your white legs with the hem of a sundress, now you can use one of the many self-tanning products that the market offers in a fairly wide range, and become sporty, tanned, as if you had just come from the gentle sea. However, in view of recent conversations about the safety of cosmetics, I would like to find out whether self-tanning is harmful to the skin, are we making things worse for ourselves by lubricating the dermis with a composition about which we know absolutely nothing? This is exactly what we will find out today, answering numerous questions from lovers of chocolate skin tones.

Simple solutions to complex problems: how self-tanning works

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Contrary to the most controversial opinions that can be heard from consumers, all creams, sprays, gels and other cosmetics that can give the skin a rich and tanned color actually contain the same substance called dihydroxyacetone. It is this chemical compound that “knows how” to react with the upper layers of the epidermis, after which it acquires a distinct brownish, bronze, and sometimes reddish tint.

Worth knowing

The higher the dihydroxyacetone content in a self-tanning cream, gel or even spray, the richer, darker and thicker your skin tone will be. Thus, you should not buy a product with a high content of this substance if your skin has a milky white tint, since coloring it right away will not be easy, and may even be impossible. It is better to get a product with a cumulative effect that acts gradually.

Since we are going to understand it thoroughly, it is worth knowing that the upper layers of the skin do not oxidize when applying any self-tanning product, but a different reaction occurs, which scientists call the Moyar reaction. In fact, the substance contained in the cream simply reacts with sugars and amino acids, which become darker as a result.

It is interesting that the shade of your own skin will not depend at all on the chosen product, which is worth remembering, but on the characteristics, composition, as well as other qualities of the dermis. The entire interaction reaction occurs in the upper layers of the epidermis, and we can say that self-tanning creams have absolutely nothing to do with ultraviolet radiation and the reaction it causes, and there cannot be anything in common.

Types of self-tanning

There are two types of self-tanning: bronzers and auto-bronzants. The principle of their action is the same, but the degree of resistance is different. Bronzers are applied to the skin, but are not absorbed into it, so this tan will last only a few hours, after which it can be easily washed off with water. This effect is achieved due to the presence of special coloring particles in the product. Auto-bronzants, in turn, react with the stratum corneum of the skin and color it. As a result, this tan will last for several days. Auto-bronzants contain dihydroxyacetone.

Artificial tanning products differ in release form:

1. Self-tanning cream has a lighter consistency than regular body and face creams. This product is evenly distributed over the skin and is quickly absorbed.
2. The gel not only gives the skin a dark tint, but also gives a feeling of coolness, which is especially valuable in summer.
3. Milk, along with creams, is the most popular form of self-tanning. The milk applies smoothly and does not leave spots or streaks on the skin.
4. The spray is quickly applied to the skin, and the shade appears almost immediately. You can also adjust the tan tone using the spray.
5. Self-tanning wipes are a new development. They are convenient to renew your tan and enhance its shade.
6. The cushion allows you to apply self-tanning more evenly, as it is more convenient to do it with a sponge than with your palms.
7. Booster is a concentrate for artificial tanning. It is enough to add just a few drops of booster to face or body cream, and then apply it to the skin. However, the effect of the booster does not appear immediately, but after several procedures.

People with dark hair and dark skin should choose self-tanners from the “dark” line. For those who have brown or light brown hair and a slightly dark complexion, products from the medium series are suitable. And blond and fair-skinned people should choose a self-tanning cream marked light.

How to use the sun in a bottle: self-tanning - application is simple, ridiculously so

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Each self-tanning product, that is, for giving your own skin a beautiful tan, must have its own instructions for use, which accurately describe the entire process and must be clearly studied before applying a cosmetic product to your body. Moreover, it doesn’t matter at all whether you decide to apply self-tanning after a solarium to add brightness to the shade, or just because. True, in addition to individual instructions, there are also general recommendations that should not be ignored at all, but on the contrary, need to be taken into account.

• Whenever you apply any kind of self-tanner to your body, it should be completely clean. It is unacceptable to smear your skin with such a product just after coming from the beach, for example.
• You should definitely make an exfoliating mask or a whole body scrub. This will help get rid of possible stains, streaks and streaks.
• Gel, cream, jelly or spray should be applied no earlier than ten minutes after visiting the bath or shower, since the pores must close. Otherwise, you risk turning into a speckled person.
• Try to spread the product evenly over the entire surface of the skin, as excess of it can also lead to the appearance of unsightly spots.

Be sure to do the test, the instructions for which are slightly below, in order to protect yourself from a possible allergic reaction, because if you get a rash, then the next question, whether self-tanning works for tanning, will no longer be relevant at all.

Instant tanning: fast and technologically advanced

If you want to quickly get a beautiful skin tone, you can do an instant tan. Using special equipment, reed lotion is applied to the body, which is why this type of tan is also called reed tanning. The composition contains a natural component - dihydroxyacetone sugar, which stimulates the process of melanin production. As a result, the skin darkens, like self-tanning.

The procedure is suitable for those who need to get an even tan in a few hours - on the eve of an important event, a performance or before a trip to the sea, so as not to be embarrassed by white skin.

How long an instant tan lasts is influenced by the rate of cell renewal in a particular person and the concentration of the lotion. The effect usually appears within 6–10 hours and lasts from one to two weeks. An instant tanning machine is a unit with a turbine and a sprayer. The service is provided in the salon and at home.

Pros and cons of instant tanning

The procedure itself takes 15–20 minutes; liquid peeling is first applied to the body. The shade can vary from golden to bronze. Another advantage of instant tanning is the lifting effect due to the moisturizing components in the composition.

Instant tanning also has its downsides. For the next 3–8 hours after the procedure, it is recommended to wear loose, not too light-colored clothing, and avoid touching and excessive sweating. In general, it is more difficult than with a solarium, but faster and more durable than with self-tanning.

Instant tanning products are made from natural ingredients. High-quality products are tested for allergenicity. Popular instant tanning formulations are safe, as are the methods of applying them. But still, test the product on a small area of ​​skin first.

Ilgiza Romanova cosmetologist-esthetician

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It is impossible to predict how skin will behave under chemical spraying. A lot of chemicals were dispersed over Moscow due to the epidemiological situation. Be careful and be sure to test new products.

Time H: how long does it take for self-tanning to appear?

Another fundamental question that interests quite a lot of our subscribers, especially those who cannot be patient or read the instructions for this or that product. Moreover, whatever one may say, the time when a new dark shade will appear is definitely written on the packaging or in the accompanying documentation (instructions) and you only need to spend two minutes of your own precious time to read it.

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Most often, such remedies appear within two hours, and sometimes it can take up to a quarter of a day. If we are talking about cumulative self-tanning, then the first time you may not notice anything at all, since it acts gently and gradually. Moreover, it is worth remembering that the faster the cream acts, the easier and easier it will most likely be washed off. You need to know that almost all self-tanners stain clothes, so first dry thoroughly and only then put on your clothes.

How long does self-tanning last on the body: calculate the following procedure

There is another fundamental question that also worries many women extremely much, and it sounds like this: how long does self-tanning last, and how long will it take before it completely disappears. It is quite difficult to answer this seemingly simple question in general terms, because in many ways it is very individual and depends on the characteristics of your own body.

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As has already been repeated, pigment from a cosmetic product qualitatively colors only the very top layers of the epidermis, without penetrating deep into it. This means that as the cells of this epidermis die and exfoliate, the tan will gradually fade, in fact, be washed away. Most often this happens within seven or nine days, but it can happen earlier. But if you want to maintain an even, uniform color, then it is better to constantly repeat the procedure, at least two or even three times a week.

Common mistakes when applying tanning

The most common mistakes when using self-tanning are orange streaks or streaks. If this effect could not be avoided, then you can try to soften them with nail polish remover. Lightly wet a cotton pad and gently wipe over the stain or stripe. It's better to do it slowly and little by little.

It is also a mistake to scrub the skin after a self-tanning procedure. This can harm the new skin tone and simply wash off the product.

Remember to always wear sunscreen, even if you use self-tanner. The latter does not interfere with tanning, but does not protect against it either.

Is it possible to sunbathe with self-tanner in the sun: summer is calling

So, from everything that has been said above, it becomes completely clear whether it is possible to sunbathe after self-tanning, and the answer is quite positive. These cosmetics simply paint the top layer of skin, which, by the way, will be washed off over time, along with the dye, and does not trigger any further processes in the human body, hence its complete harmlessness. Of course, provided that you do not have an individual, personal intolerance to the components of the product.

Photo from website: intensa.pro

This means that it is quite possible to go out into the sun and sunbathe while smearing yourself with a self-tanner, and it will not affect your natural tan at all if it does not contain special filter particles. Among other things, it can help you tan because it attracts more ultraviolet radiation, but it can dry out the skin, also for this very reason. So it’s worth going and sunbathing, even if you have an excellent self-tanning cream, just stock up on special cosmetics that you usually use and everything will be very good.

What does a self-tanner hide?

In addition to DHA, self-tanning contains various moisturizing ingredients and oils that soften the skin and give it a pleasant smell or even shine and radiance. Sometimes, instead of DHA, manufacturers use erythrulose, which is also called raspberry sugar. This is also a monosaccharide found in already ripe berries. In some stores you can see prolongators, which also make the skin darker. They differ from self-tanning in that they contain less dye and more moisturizers. Such products are more designed for care and concentrate on nourishing and moisturizing the skin. Doctors prefer self-tanning to tanning beds because it avoids exposure to ultraviolet rays and photoaging of the skin.

Original high-quality self-tanning: harmful or not

The excitement that has recently arisen around original tanning products, which are conveniently and beautifully lined up on the shelves of our cosmetic stores, was not caused by chance. Cosmetologists and doctors around the world unanimously insist that bronzers, gels, sprays, and creams simply cannot bring any harm, because, as already mentioned, they have nothing to do with ultraviolet radiation, and, consequently, with photoaging. However, you can put yourself in danger even by purchasing the treasured tube, which seems so harmless and harmless.

• Any self-tanning can cause harm if you bought a low-quality product of unknown origin. You shouldn’t take such cosmetics from unverified retail outlets, from stalls on the market, and even more so from shady characters in underground passages or gateways, otherwise it’s no wonder you’ll get a terrible allergic reaction.
• Many people, out of ignorance, think that if they applied self-tanning to their body, then the rays of the sun are no longer afraid of them, but everything is exactly the opposite. Darker skin attracts ultraviolet radiation more strongly and will burn much more easily. If you want this to not happen, you should buy only those products that contain special filters.
• With regular use, for example, daily or even three times a week, slight dehydration of the skin may occur, which, however, can be easily corrected with other cosmetic moisturizing creams and other products offered on the market today.

Photo from the site: sun-planet.ru

Among other things, it is also worth considering that self-tanning products are usually certified, so feel free to ask for such papers in the store. If they are in no hurry to present them to you, it is better to pass by to avoid consequences. That is, in fact, this product is completely harmless, but the question remains whether it is possible to use self-tanning during pregnancy, because mothers do not want to harm their own baby. However, this needs to be discussed separately, as it is an extremely important factor.

Rating of the best self-tanners

The market offers a large selection of self-tanners. Among them there are those that are most popular among consumers.

Self-tanning milk for body Garnier Ambre Solaire “Even tan”

Garnier Self-Tanning Milk has a fresh scent and allows you to achieve a natural, smudge-free tan.

This face and body lotion helps you achieve a beautiful, natural tan that looks just like the tan you get in the sun. The product contains a natural bronzing component of plant origin and apricot kernel oil. It is thanks to these ingredients that the milk not only promotes the appearance of a lasting, blemish-free tan, but also moisturizes the skin well for up to 12 hours. To begin with, this self-tanner should be applied every day, and when you achieve the desired shade, then once or twice a week. You can buy milk for an average of 470 rubles.

The self-tanner smells pleasant, the standard smell is overwhelmed by the fragrance. The consistency is slightly thicker than regular body milk, it applies easily and is absorbed quickly. I apply it about 20 minutes before bed, and it shows up in the morning. Milk does not stain laundry at all. I apply self-tanner 2-3 days in a row, then maintain it 2-3 times a week. Milk consumption is quite economical, especially when mixed. The color turns out very natural. The self-tanner washes off quite evenly; streaks remain in some places, but disappear quickly.

Karina Braun

https://irecommend.ru/content/estestvennyi-zagar-s-molochkom-garnier-kak-pravilno-ispolzovat-avtozagarmoya-poshagovaya-ins

Self-tanning gel for face and body L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze

L'Oreal Paris Self-Tanning Gel is enriched with smoothing AHA for an even tan

Self-tanning gel from L'Oreal promotes an even tan with a natural shade. The product does not leave a greasy film on the skin, it is non-sticky, absorbs quickly and does not stain clothes. The gel contains a smoothing component AHA, thanks to which the tan is even. First, the product is applied daily, and then two to three times a week. You can buy self-tanning gel for 700 rubles.

I have been using self-tanning gel for about two months now, once a week. I can’t afford it more often because, like any self-tanner, it fades unevenly. Not with spots like a cheetah, but it’s still better to thoroughly peel, scrub and wait until the skin is completely cleansed of coloring pigment before each new visit. The gel gives a really beautiful natural tan. The only negative I found is that it is sticky for the first 20-30 minutes after application.

mylittlepanicattack

https://irecommend.ru/content/nikto-dazhe-ne-dogadaetsya-chto-eto-ne-naturalnyi-zagar-gel-avtozagar-ot-loreal-sublime-bron

St. Moriz Auto-bronzing mousse tinting Professional

Auto-bronzant-mousse St. Moriz is suitable for face and body

At the auto bronzant St. Moriz has a mousse texture, thanks to which the product is evenly distributed over the skin, quickly absorbed and dries. After applying it, you get a beautiful, even tan without orange spots or streaks. The mousse contains olive milk and vitamin E. The product is suitable for all skin types and does not contain parabens. A tan will appear within 3-5 hours after applying the mousse. If you repeat the procedure 2-4 more times, the shade will be more intense. And the tan is washed off gradually, without staining clothes and bedding. This auto-bronzant is sold in two shades: Medium for fair-skinned people and Dark for dark-skinned people. The cost of the mousse is on average 800 rubles.

The mousse is wonderful! After one application, the result was as if I had been at sea for a week. The tan is washed off in 3–4 days. But if you do it on the eve of any event, it will be great. It is important to apply with gloves! It does not stain clothes and dries quickly on the skin. The figure immediately looks slimmer and more prominent. I recommend!

Elena

https://www.ozon.ru/context/detail/id/140973173/

Uriage Auto-bronzant-spray thermal Barjesan

Uriage auto-bronzing spray for sensitive skin creates a natural tan effect all year round

This auto-bronzing spray not only gives the skin a light tan, but also saturates it with vitamins and minerals. The product is evenly applied to the skin. You just need to spray it and wait until it is absorbed. The main components of the spray are dihydroxyacetone and erythrulose. And thanks to the presence of glycerin and butylene glycol in the product, the skin does not dry out or peel. This auto-bronzant contains no alcohol, it does not clog pores or cause irritation, so the product is suitable for sensitive skin. The cost of the spray is on average 1350 rubles.

Absorbs well and does not dry out the skin. The smell is not unpleasant, as is the case with auto bronzers. The color is quite natural, but still yellowish on my white skin. The only thing is that it didn’t seem very economical to me.

Masha

https://omegapost.ru/product/uriage-bariesun-sprey-avtobronzant-termalnyy.html

Floresan Self-tanning spray “Bronze”

Floresan self-tanning spray can be used all year round to achieve a beautiful, even tan.

This is an easy-to-use spray, thanks to which an even tan appears on the skin within 3-4 hours after application. The product contains apricot, soy and coconut oil, as well as vitamin E. These components not only tone the skin and increase its elasticity, but also prolong the durability of the tan. And hyaluronic and lactic acids prevent the appearance of peeling on the skin. This is a non-comedogenic product that does not clog pores or make the skin sticky. Auto-bronzant can also be used to camouflage age spots on the skin. You can buy a spray for an average of 150 rubles.

The consistency of the cream is like milk, a little runny. Absorbs immediately. Doesn't stain clothes and linen. This is currently the best self-tanner for daily use. It moisturizes the skin well, does not have a nasty odor, and the skin acquires a nice warm, non-yellow tint. In general, I recommend it.

Olya1491

https://irecommend.ru/content/samyi-luchshii-avtozagar-dlya-ezhednevnogo-ispolzovaniya-tak-zhe-sravnenie-s-drugimi-avtozag

Solbianca Solid body self-tanning oil Coconut

Solbianca solid self-tanning oil has a pronounced moisturizing effect

Solid oil gives the skin a beautiful and even dark shade. The product contains coconut oil and shea butter. Thanks to these components, the number of stretch marks is reduced, the skin is well moisturized and tightened. And the Selftan bronzer complex promotes the appearance of a lasting dark tan, which is noticeable within three hours after applying the oil. The product can be used both at home and in a solarium. The cost of solid self-tanning oil is 870 rubles.

Perfect for my pale skin! Effect after the first use. Very neat natural tan without orange spots. If you want to get a more pronounced color, the result becomes more noticeable after the third application. Plus, this oil moisturizes the skin very well. I don't use other lotions with it.

Senorita_S

https://irecommend.ru/content/2-v-1-kak-ne-byt-blednoi-pogankoi-zimoi-i-prekrasno-uvlazhnit-kozhu

Clarins Tanning Jelly Gelee Auto-Bronzante Express

Clarins jelly is quickly applied and absorbed, giving the skin an even, natural tan.

This jelly has a light, non-greasy texture. The product is quickly applied and absorbed into the skin, giving it a beautiful and even tone. Thanks to the presence of plant extracts in the self-tanning product, the product moisturizes the skin well and makes it soft and silky. To obtain a light tan, the jelly should be applied from time to time. And those who want a more saturated shade should repeat the procedure regularly. The cost of jelly is on average 1,400 rubles.

Light, non-greasy gel texture, spreads easily on the skin and is instantly absorbed. The result is excellent. My skin has never been so perfect. Everything is simple, without streaks and unpleasant orange pigment. Looking at my tan, it seems that I flew to Turkey for a couple of days.

Sizikinal

https://irecommend.ru/content/zhele-dlya-iskusstvennogo-zagara-byt-krasivoi-prosto

Sun Care Self-tanning cream SUN CARE for face and body

Self-tanning cream Sun Care is an ideal product for getting a quick tan without the sun at any time of the year.

This cream helps to achieve a quick, natural and safe tan. The product has a light texture that ensures uniform application of the cream and its rapid absorption. As a result, the skin acquires a beautiful tan without orange spots and stripes. The product contains moisturizing components that make the skin smooth and elastic. You can buy the cream for an average of 350 rubles.

Not a bad cream. Absorbs quickly, there is no sticky effect, the skin breathes. The best part is that there is no strong smell afterwards. It is there, but barely perceptible and it pleases. Yes, I didn’t notice a strong “dense” tanning effect, it turned out to be a light shade. I didn’t find any bright spots or stains, and there is also no clear contrast between white and “tanned” skin.

Anna

https://www.wildberries.ru/catalog/7184723/detail.aspx?targetUrl=GP#Comments

DOVE Body Lotion Summer Glow

DOVE body lotion not only cares for the surface of the skin, but also deeply nourishes it layer by layer.

Dove lotion is designed for dark skin to enhance your tan tone. The product contains a complex of natural nutritional components and essential oils, thanks to which the skin becomes soft and smooth. The lotion can be used daily, and the tan will appear gradually. The cost of this product is on average 400 rubles.

It does not make the skin too tanned, but gives a beautiful, even, light tan color. The skin becomes soft and soft. The smell of the lotion is pleasant and unobtrusive. The tan appears gradually. If you do not apply the lotion for more than a week, the skin returns to its original appearance. Good product with adequate effect.

catty13

https://otzovik.com/review_3599518.html

Floresan Self-tanning milk-express

Floresan self-tanning milk is intended for obtaining an artificial tan of the face and body for all skin types.

This milk is intended for all skin types. A natural tan after application appears within three to four hours and lasts for five days. The product is also used to disguise age spots. You can buy milk for an average of 100 rubles.

Milk of medium thickness. It spreads easily over the skin. I apply the milk exclusively to my feet. The effect lasts for me for 4 days, and on the fifth it begins to noticeably brighten. On days 6–7 I repeat the procedure. The shade fades evenly, I didn’t find any “tiger” stripes. I recommend!

_Sakura_

https://irecommend.ru/content/rovnyi-estestvennyi-zagar-za-neskolko-minut-legko

Ideal self-tanning: contraindications worth considering

You need to know that there are, of course, contraindications that will prevent you from using self-tanners. There are few of them and basically, this is the personal predisposition of the body. Otherwise, such products are completely harmless, especially high-quality, branded ones, which you only need to buy in a store.

• Vitiligo, psoriasis and other chronic skin problems.
• Cuts, scratches, punctures and other mechanical damage.
• Inflammatory processes on the surface of the epidermis, acne, rashes, pimples.
• Oncological diseases of the dermis.

Contraindications and precautions

The main contraindications to the use of self-tanning are:

• Allergy.;
• Herpes;
• Dry skin;
• Cuts, injuries, damage, skin diseases (dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, etc.).

Self-tanning should be used with great caution during pregnancy. Although pregnancy is not a contraindication, you need to choose a cosmetic product more carefully and follow all recommendations for use.

The same applies to established mothers who breastfeed their babies. Self-tanning will not cause any harm to the baby, but you should not use an untested product either.

Is it possible to use self-tanning during pregnancy: the health of babies comes first

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It often happens that just during the summer period you really want and dream of looking bold, daring, tanned and beautiful; there comes a time when a little life is born inside and it would be a crime on our part to harm it. In fact, it is not recommended for mothers expecting offspring to spend a long time in the sun. Therefore, an unusual number of women are really sincerely interested in whether pregnant women can use self-tanning, whether it will harm the baby and what consequences may arise. We will try to answer these and other questions.

To begin with, it is worth recalling that all the reactions that color our skin with a golden or chocolate hue under the influence of the product occur in the upper layers, and these substances are not able to penetrate into the deeper layers. However, there is still something to worry about; self-tanning for pregnant women can be harmful if it contains substances that can cause allergies. Therefore, you should definitely closely monitor the composition, and it wouldn’t hurt to test the product before spreading it all over your body.

Allergy test

In order to make sure that you definitely do not have an allergy to this cosmetic product, it is worth doing a simple test. To do this, apply a little product to the cleansed skin of the inside of the wrist or elbow and leave for several hours. There is no need to worry that a speck will remain; it can be easily removed with a slice of lemon. If after twelve hours there is no redness, itching or other unpleasant things, then everything is in order and the product can be used.

Question answer

Choose the option that is most convenient for you to apply. Some prefer to rub the cream into the body, others choose a spray with a spray, and others are more accustomed to carrying a pack of wet wipes soaked in self-tanning product.

This is influenced by the individual characteristics of the skin and other factors. Often the effect lasts about 4-5 days. Then the skin begins to lighten back. The fact is that such a product affects exclusively the upper layers of the skin, and they, as you know, die and peel off over time. But there are expensive products on sale; the results after using them can last up to 2 weeks.

It's worth learning how to use self-tanner correctly, otherwise you run the risk of uneven shade or spots. This is one of the disadvantages. It is also worth noting that the effect does not last long (on average, the tan is washed off after 4 days). But such a product does not harm health, which cannot be said about UV rays.