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by Iris George
Ever wondered if your self-tanner is your skin's best friend or worst enemy? In this must-read article, we’ll dive below the dermis to uncover the truth.
According to leading British Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr Simon Zokaie, self-tanners can be used by all skin types, including sensitive. So long as you patch test and avoid known irritants and allergens.
“Fake tanning is safer than using sunbeds or sunbathing which has the risk of sunburns and premature photo aging and risk of developing skin cancer in the future,” says Dr Zokaie. BRB, just grabbing our Sunny Honey!
The main active in self-tanning products, DHA is the ingredient that courts the most concern. Short for Dihydroxyacetone, this colorless sugar interacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of the skin, or stratum corneum.
When applied topically, DHA reacts with these amino acids to produce pigments called melanoidins, which impart a brownish color to the skin. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, typically occurs within a few hours of application and results in a temporary tan that lasts for several days.
But is this bronzing magic harmless, or does it come with a health cost?
While some studies suggest that DHA causes DNA damage under certain conditions, the results are far from conclusive. And it's important to note that the concentration of DHA used in self-tanning products is typically much lower than the concentrations used in laboratory studies.
DHA is generally considered safe for use in self-tanning products, and the concentration in over-the-counter self-tanners typically ranges from around 3% to 15%. In the US, 15% is the maximum concentration recommended by the FDA in home tanning products to ensure safety and effectiveness while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions or uneven tanning. (There is no regulation in Australia.)
According to Dr Zokaie, the source also matters. “DHA can be manufactured synthetically, or it can be derived from natural things, like beet sugar or cane sugar. It’s better to use natural DHAs if possible.”
Not sure where to find one? Look no further than our Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist and Bali Bronzing Foam – formulated with 100% natural DHA! Bursting with antioxidants, our Tanning Mist also fights free radical damage while boosting collagen production by 93% (based on in vitro testing conducted with vegetal extract).
According to Dr Zokaie, some tanning ingredients are best avoided. His recommends steering clear of products containing:
Fact: fake tan can be drying. Many self-tanning products contain alcohol, which serves as a solvent and helps the product to dry quickly upon application. Because, let’s face it, who wants to sit around marinating in a sticky tan?
While alcohol can provide a smooth and even finish, it also has drying properties that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Using too much self-tanner or applying it too frequently can also overwhelm the skin and leave it dry as a bone. So, give your skin a time out before reapplying, and opt for alcohol-free formulas – like ours!
Also keep an eye out for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and Vitamin E. Or, in the case of our Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist, Hyalurosmooth™ – a powerhouse plant extract that’s four times more hydrating than HA!
All tanning formulas and tanners differ, and some people may be sensitive or allergic to the DHA, synthetic fragrances, preservatives, or other ingredients used in self-tanning products. These can irritate the skin and contribute to dryness, redness and itching, particularly in those with sensitive skin.
As well as avoiding any known allergens, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the product all over your body!
It's important to remember that self-tanners do not provide any protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation from the sun. Even if you have a tan from a self-tanner, you still need to use sunscreen when going outside to protect your skin from sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging!
Here at Coco & Eve, we're all about looking and feeling our best. Let's be real: we all love a sunkissed glow, but there's a healthy way to achieve it and a not-so-healthy way.
Tanning Beds and UV Exposure
Tanning beds blast you with ultraviolet (UV) rays, just like the sun, but way more intense. This intense UV exposure can disrupt your skin on so many levels:
Damage Central: UV rays break down collagen and elastin, the superheroes that keep your skin plump and youthful. Hello, wrinkles!
Fast Forward: Think getting older is a natural part of life? Tanning beds hit the fast-forward button on aging, leaving you with premature wrinkles and uneven skin tone.
Skin Cancer SOS: This is the big one. Studies show that just one tanning bed session can increase your risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, by 20%.
Let's be honest, a tan from a bottle or a safe self-tanner can give you that gorgeous glow without the health risks. Plus, you can still get your daily dose of vitamin D from a healthy diet and some sunshine (with sunscreen, of course!).
DHA Precautions
First up, the FDA has some sage advice: avoid inhaling DHA or getting it near your eyes or other mucus membranes. DHA is generally safe when used correctly, but inhaling it can irritate your lungs.
Some studies suggest that DHA-treated skin might generate more free radicals when exposed to sunlight. Free radicals are those pesky molecules that damage your skin cells and contribute to premature aging.
Here are some Coco & Eve approved tips:
Apply DHA in a well-ventilated area. Open a window or step outside for a bit while your tan develops.
Be mindful of your eyes and lips. Use a cotton swab dipped in moisturizer to create a barrier around these areas before applying DHA.
Self-tanning is a safer option than sun exposure or a tanning bed. However, it's vital to use these products responsibly and be aware of any potential sensitivities, making sure to patch test first.
Then, to get your faux-glow on without dry or streaky-looking skin, stick with natural DHA and alcohol-free products formulated with hydrating ingredients. Like those in our cute and convenient Tan Masters Set – where you'll save on all your safe tanning essentials!
Written By: Pip Jarvis
Edited By: Iris
