How Self Tanning Lotion Achieves A Beautiful Color

By Haywood Hunter


To understand how these lotions work, sometimes learning about the design of the skin can help get the depth of color desired as well as determine the best self tanning lotion for you. Basically, the skin has two layers. The outer layer is called the epidermis and the inner layer is the dermis.

Self tanning lotion darkens the outer layer of the epidermis whereas sunbathing darkens the inner layer. This is called the stratum basale layer which can be damaged easily by direct sunlight. A disadvantage of this product is that few contain sunscreen, but when used properly is safe.

The outer layer of the epidermis is called the stratum corneum and at this layer, self tanning lotion works. Since this product was first invented, it has focused on changes on this level in order to help those with the desire achieve that sun-kissed look. The goal is to find the right lotions that work on the outer epidermis.

Coppertone came out with the first self tanning lotion designed to color the skin in 1960. The downside of this product was that it turned the skin orange. Fortunately, these products have come a long way since that time. They now allows individuals to swipe, smooth, or spray colors ranging from light bronze to a Caribbean glow.

Today's self tanning lotion works in less than an hour, but takes about three hours of drying time. This is because the best ones contain dihydroxyacetone that interact with dead skin cells causing them to darken. As cells shed, the tan fades requiring reapplication of the self tanning lotion.

After applying self tanning lotion, these cells change color as they dry. Regardless of which self tanning lotion is selected, it is easy to use as it comes in powders, sprays, or moisturizers. It is important to know, however, that self tanning lotion rarely contains sunscreen.




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