When getting a natural tan via the sunshine is not an option, there are many ways to get Fake tans, giving you that healthy bronze look, without the harmful effects of the sun. There are several types of products today that give you an instant tan without sunshine. Depending on your desires and situation, you may opt for sunless tanning lotions and sprays, tanning pills, bronzers, and other self tanning products.

Sunless tanning lotions and sprays are generally the least expensive and most effective. These lotions and sprays contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which is a colorless sugar that interacts with the dead skins cells on the outer layer of your epidermis. This interaction results in a darker color. The more often you apply the lotion, the darker your tan will be. Some of the earlier versions of the Fake tan lotions produced more of an orange glow, but science in the last few decades have improved these products to give you a more natural tan.

Tanning Pills have not been approved by the FDA as a tanning agent. These pills contain the pigment, canthaxanthin, which is acceptable as a food dye, and hence okay to consume. The proven effects as a tanning agent have not been sufficient for the FDA to approve its use as such. But if you would rather just take a pill, you can give it a shot.

Bronzers give you a temporary fake tan, to help you get through a day or an event. Perhaps you are taking your wedding photos and want a little color. You can apply a bronzer to get that instant tan, and later wash it off. Bronzers are just makeup that you apply, and once you wash it off, the tan is gone.

Fake Tans and Natural Tans Fade – Both fake tans and natural tans only affect the outer layer of your skin, your epidermis. Your skin completely regenerates itself, so about every 35 to 45 days, the outer layer of your skin is replaced. Since both fake tans and natural tans result from changes to the pigmentation of your outer skin layer, both types of tans will fade over time. That is why it is recommended to apply the sunless lotion or spray once or twice a week, to keep your tan fresh.

For tips on keeping your skin healthy, check out Healthy Skin with Dr. Oz.

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