- Turbo tanning beds are equipped with powerful UV bulbs that are stronger than those found in typical indoor tanning systems. They deliver more UV light in a shorter period of time and therefore require clients to spend less time in the bed. Reduced tanning time means a lower risk of burning. They also give a slightly darker tan than standard UV tanning beds. They are preferred by busy clients who can get a dark tan in approximately 5 minutes. Most indoor tanning salons charge a higher rate per use for turbo beds, since the beds are sold at a higher price and are more expensive to maintain.
As with all indoor tanning beds, turbo tanning carries the risk of melanoma, a potentially fatal skin cancer. Since it emits more concentrated UV light than a standard tanning bed, it can pose a greater risk of skin cancer when used repeatedly. - A sunless tan is the only safe tan. Sunless tanning poses none of the skin cancer risks that indoor UV tanning does. With sunless tanning, skin is not exposed to harmful UV rays. Instead, sunless tanning solutions are formulated with dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a chemical that incites a reaction in skin, causing it to darken and appear tanned.
- Self-tanners are the easiest way to achieve an at-home sunless tan. Although there are a range of self-tanners on the market at every price point, lotions are the most popular option.
Self-tanning lotions originally entered the market as white lotions that turned skin darker over time. Tinted lotions are available now and are preferred because they clearly show where product is applied to skin, resulting in less missed spots and more even coverage. Both versions of the lotion rely on DHA to create a bronzed effect. Examples of self-tanning lotions are Jergens Natural Glow and Dove Energy Glow. - Self-tanning sprays are generally packaged in aerosol cans that emit a microfine mist of tanning solution. The fine spray, which is often tinted and contains DHA, requires no rubbing, guarantees even coverage and mimics professional airbrush and spray tanning. These options are popular because they are easy to use in hard-to-reach areas of the body, like the back. Examples of this type of spray are Neutrogena MicroMist Tanning and L'Oreal Sublime Glow Moisturizing Mist.
- Airbrush tanning is a safe professional method of sunless tanning. At an airbrush tanning studio, a trained technician accompanies a client into a private tanning room, where the client disrobes. The technician fills the bottle of an airbrush gun with tinted liquid tanning solution. The technician then uses the gun to spray a fine mist of solution all over the client's body. The solution requires no rubbing and takes only 5 minutes to dry.
Airbrush studios generally offer a range of solutions to compliment all skin tones and produce different levels of darkness. Technicians can help in choosing a shade that works for you. - Spray tans are similar to airbrush tanning. A client goes into a spray tan booth alone and removes the desired amount of clothing. The automated booth then emits several sprays of liquid tanning solution from nozzles built into the walls of the booth. The client rubs the solution into skin, allows it to dry, and within 8 hours, a full tan develops.
The liquid is a bronze color which provides immediate results. It also contains DHA, which causes darkening within the layers of the skin. The client is responsible for blending the solution into skin, which could result in uneven or splotchy color if spots are missed.
This method and airbrush tanning are the only safe forms of indoor tanning. - Whether you opt for a professional or at-home sunless tan, there are several steps to take in order to prepare skin.
Skin should be shaved prior to the tanning session. Shaving is a natural exfoliant, which causes the tan to fade quickly.
Skin must be clean and free of makeup, lotions, perfumes and deodorants. (Deodorant can react with the DHA and cause skin to temporarily turn green.)
Showering, exercising and sweating should be avoided for 8 hours after tanning.
When getting sprayed or airbrushed, wear dark, loose-fitting clothing to the studio. This will camouflage any tanner that may rub off on fabric. (Tanning stains do come out of clothing with normal laundering.)
After tanning, there are steps you can take to extend the life of your sunless tan. Moisturize daily, and use a vegetable-based glycerine soap to wash skin. Do not use scrubs, loofahs or other exfoliators while your tan is present.
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