What does self tan contain?
Fake tan can look completely natural if done correctly.
Just because it's winter, that doesn't mean that you can't have a nice healthy glow!
Sunless tan contains Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which derives from sugar beets or sugar, this is why fake tan can sometimes be a little sticky. Contrary to popular belief fake tan does not stain the skin, instead the reason it turns you brown is a chemical reaction. DHA reacts with the the amino acids on the top layer of the skin giving you that golden glow.
However, DHA hasn't always been there to give you a golden glow, it has treated many issues from X-rays to combatting glycogen storage. The 70's saw women who tan have a bit of an orange glow, however, good sunless tanners have now eliminated the orangeness in them.
In terms of content, over the counter tans contain around 4% DHA where salon formulas have anywhere between 5 and 15%. The tan darkens after around 4 hours and will carry on developing for up to 72 hours, the longer you leave it, the darker you will be.
If you are worried about that fake tan smell, a shower after 24 hours should eliminate the odour without ruining you tan.
DHA doesn't usually bring any skin issues but if you are uneasy about going for it you may feel more comfortable in conducting a small skin patch test before you apply, especially if you have sensitive skin. In the first 24 hours after applying fake tan, the skin is more prone to free-radical sun damage due to the DHA and erythulose in the formula. It is advised that you avoid the sunlight after immediate tanning but if this can't be helped, apply sunscreen and an antioxidant cream if available.
Don't be fooled by applying a fake tan with built in sunscreen as it will not last a substantial amount of time after application.
Self tan lotions and potions do not contain all chemicals either, nowadays many are developed to contain natural ingredients such as aloe vera and shea butter. Look out for important natural ingredients like cocoa butter which improves the skins radiance and grapefruit oil which is a gem in helping to reduce cellulite.
