The key to achieving a flawless tan lies not just in the tanning bed you choose, but also in the type of tanning lotion you use. Professional indoor tanning lotions come in various formulations, each offering a distinct approach to enhancing your tanning experience. In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of indoor tanning lotions and explore the three main types: intensifiers, natural bronzers, and DHA bronzers.
Intensifiers
Intensifiers, often referred to as accelerators or maximizers, are a staple in the world of indoor tanning. These lotions focus on nourishing and hydrating the skin while stimulating melanin production – the pigment responsible for skin colour. They typically contain a blend of moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and essential oils. By promoting skin health and hydration, intensifiers prepare your skin for optimal tanning, helping you achieve a deeper and longer-lasting tan. These lotions are an excellent choice for those new to indoor tanning or those who have fair skin.
Pros:
Hydrates and nourishes the skin for noticeably improved tanning results.
Allows maximum absorption of UV rays.
Suitable for tanning beginners.
Can help to reduce the risk of uneven tan lines and blotching.
Considerations:
Tanning results might be more gradual compared to bronzers.
Offers minimal immediate colour enhancement.
Natural Bronzers
Natural bronzers take tanning to the next level by incorporating plant-based ingredients that provide a subtle boost of colour. These lotions often include extracts from herbs, fruits, and vegetables that contain natural pigments, such as walnut shell extract, caramel, and henna. Natural bronzers offer instant gratification, as they give your skin an immediate sun-kissed glow while also preparing it for the development of a deeper tan over time. These lotions are perfect for those who desire quick results and an enhanced colour payoff.
Pros:
Provides an instant bronzed appearance to the skin.
Contains natural ingredients that promote skin health.
Suitable for intermediate tanners looking for more noticeable colour enhancement.
Considerations:
The colour produced may wash off after showering.
DHA Bronzers
DHA (dihydroxyacetone) bronzers are a popular choice among experienced indoor tanners seeking intense, longer-lasting colour. DHA is a colourless sugar that interacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of the skin, causing a chemical reaction that darkens the skin's appearance. Unlike natural bronzers, the colour produced by DHA bronzers won't wash off, as it's part of the skin's top layer. These lotions often include other skin-nourishing ingredients to enhance the overall tanning experience.
Pros:
Offers a deep, longer-lasting tan that remains after showering.
Provides immediate colour and continues to develop over a few hours.
Suitable for advanced tanners aiming for a dark, rich tan.
Considerations:
Requires more careful application.
Not recommended for those who want to shower or workout immediately after tanning.
Conclusion
Choosing the right professional indoor tanning lotion can significantly impact your tanning experience and results. Whether you're a tanning novice looking for a gradual glow or an experienced tanner seeking a deep, dark tan, the staff at Arizona Tanning are ready to help you find the best lotion type tailored to your needs. Intensifiers, natural bronzers, and DHA bronzers each offer unique benefits and considerations, so take your skin type, tanning goals, and experience level into account when making your selection.