Many people tend to confuse tanning lotion with sunscreen. Whereas a sunscreen seeks to inhibit the sun’s UV rays from reaching the skin, a tanning lotion seeks to maximize the result of UV rays providing for the deepest tan possible. Many use tanning lotions in conjunction with indoor tanning beds in order to help facilitate the deep glow which usually only arises after significant time spent outside under the sun. The use of tanning lotion in combination with tanning beds or booths allows those not lucky enough to live near a beach to sport a deep and natural year round tan. However, it is important for those seeking protection from the sun to remember that only sunscreens with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating can prevent exposure to UV rays.
Tanning lotions produce results by facilitating the production of melanin — the component within the skin which produces a tan. Tanning lotions also increase the blood flow within your skin thus helping melanin to rise to the skin’s surface yielding the desired glowing tan effect. Many users of tanning lotion select the one which produces a tingling effect within the skin. This tingling is a result of increased blood flow, and it is a good sign that the tanning lotion will achieve its desired effect. Seeing that everyone’s skin is unique, a tanning lotion which works on one person may not work on another. Consequently, this “tingle test” serves as a good indicator of whether the given tanning lotion is a good match for your skin type.
Some tanning lotions now also include what are referred to as “bronzers”. These agents, most commonly dihydroxyacetone (DHA), work in combination with the UV ray source in order to multiply the resulting tanning effects. Some bronzing agents contain additional components meant to increase blood flow and are called “hot bronzers”. Others contain a cooling agent such as menthol and are termed “cool bronzers”. All good tanning lotions contain a moisturizing agent which helps combat the drying effects of exposure to UV rays. Tanning lotion can be used either outdoors or within the context of indoor tanning beds. Microbikinis obviously look best on an evenly tanned body, and those inclined to wear them often use tanning lotions to ensure the best tan possible.
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