If you’ve ever tried a self-tanner, you’ll agree that it’s a product that works wonders. One day, and hello to the tanned, warm-weather complexion. We adopt a proud look and we want to shout to the world that we feel beautiful. And yet, a little question is never far away: how does self-tanner work its miracle? We indeed wonder if self-tanner is a chemical component or if it is natural. Isn’t it dangerous for our bodies? We talk about it here.
Self-tanner procedure
Whatever the nature of your self-tanner, there is one of its components that does not change. It is DHA or dihydroxyacetone which is a natural active ingredient. Its presence explains the phenomenon of tanning.
Indeed, following a chemical reaction, DHA binds to body cells. It then comes into contact with amino acids, which causes the skin to tan. The greater the DHA, the more pronounced the coloring of the skin.
Depending on your skin tone (light or darker) and the length of time you choose to use a self-tanner, you will need to choose a model with a DHA percentage varying between 1 and 8%. Be careful when choosing your product to avoid inconvenience. To guide you, you will find more information here.
Once the self-tanner is on your body, for a minimum of three hours, you should avoid putting water or any other product on the covered areas. This may compromise your chances of having an even skin tone at the end of the process. But if you want a very light tan, you can apply your moisturizer.
Why doesn’t the tanned complexion last?
Tanning occurs on your epidermis, which is the first layer of your skin. If you ever wonder why the effect of self-tanners doesn’t last forever, it’s just because your skin cells renew themselves quickly.
Generally speaking, to see the effects of your self-tanner, no matter how effective it is, you need to wait at least a whole day. So it’s not magic, but chemistry.
Are there any consequences on the body?
Don’t worry, DHA, the active ingredient in self-tanner, is not harmful to your body. In addition, your self-tanner has no contraindications for you and your body. It’s just that to avoid creating an allergy, it is recommended to test the self-tanner if it is the first time you use it.
Are there natural self-tanners?
Nature lovers often wonder if a self-tanner can be done at home. Are there any self-tanners left unprocessed in factories?
Eh yes ! There are some and you can easily make them at home. Of course, you will need to apply it to a part of your body to test your tolerance to the components.
The easiest recipe is for tea. You drink it, but it can also serve as a great self-tanner. To get it, mix two tablespoons of your black tea in a quarter of a liter of water. Then boil the mixture and let it sit for two days. Once it is ready, apply a few drops on cotton and wipe over your face. This mixture can be made whenever you need it.
You can also mix one of your body creams with cocoa to have an excellent self-tanner. You will just have to pass the ointment obtained on your body. It’s an extremely simple recipe.
Furthermore, it must be said that a large consumption of carrots will have a self-tanning effect on your skin. Eat this vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals and you will not be disappointed. It is known to accelerate the coloring of the complexion and promote tanning. Why deprive yourself of it then?
Conclusion about self-tanning for a tanned complexion
Self-tanners have become popular because they easily give you the warm, glowing complexion you crave. They can be used anytime and go with all skin types. Unlike UV booths which can put you at risk of skin cancer, self-tanners are healthy. Above all, you will find them almost everywhere and not too expensive too. Very easy to do yourself, they will give you a boost.
