The desire to self-tan derives from the need to obtain that coveted glow to skin. But what do you really know about self-tanning products? Beauty4Media lets you in on 10 secrets that you didn't know about in your quest to achieve the eternal golden bronze beauty look, just in time for the holidays. Check 'em out below:
Feel Happy Inside. It has been scientifically proven that when you have a golden tan it has the ability to stimulate the release of beta-endorphins. Beta-endorphins are our body's "feel-good" hormones and this transcribes to positive psychological effects and well being in addition to the great sense of elation that emerges from a flawless looking tan. We have all experienced these endorphins, you know that feeling you get after doing some exercise, even though you are exhausted? They are the same endorphins and they make us feel good, and when we feel good this positivity is exuded making us look good and more attractive... its magnetism baby!
New Found Confidence. So not only are you sending out vibrations of "feel-good" hormones from your flawless faux tan, you are also appearing slimmer, blemish free and more importantly, more confident in your skin. A lot can come from a little brown bottle, as not only will a veil of golden color allow your skin's radiance to shine through, but also it will also disguise all your little skin imperfections. Tanning can allow you to feel psychologically healthier and more comfortable in your own skin.
Be Sun Safe. Although having a tan can produce positive psychological effects, it can also generate some negatives. The growing fears of many doctors for people who use self tanners to achieve a golden glow needs to be highlighted. A lot of people are under the impression that when they self-tan they already have a tan base and UV protection, so there is no need to protect themselves from the sun. This simply is not the case. With continued exposure and no protection, skin damage from sunlight increasingly intensifies. Not only do the outcomes include sunburn and more frightening skin cancer, it can also boost the effects of wrinkles, premature skin aging, as well as interfere with the body's immune system. To be effective, sunscreen needs to be applied daily.
Dangerous Chemicals. It is a habitual belief of consumers, as they tend to believe that if a product is out on the market, it is assumed to be safe. But have you ever wondered what is really in the brown broth you are applying to your skin to give you that perfect bronzed glow? Become aware of the danger chemicals you need to watch out for:
Oxybenzone (Benzophenon-3) makes frequent appearances in many well-known self-tanners. It is added to aid in the skins absorption of the tan. However, what the manufacturers don't mention is that it is a chemical that contributes to skin allergies and weakens the immune system, not to mention that it also dries the skin out depriving it of natural moisture. Methylparaben is a preservative found in many fake tans. It is a fungicide and is used to preserve the life of a product. But Methylparaben is not the only preservative out there, and there are many organic and natural preservatives available such as Honey and Grapefruit Seed Extract that are just as effective.
Go Organic. As the many dangers of these chemicals have started to expose themselves, organic tanning products have hit the scene. To be an organic tanning product it must be based with water and plant ingredients, be paraben-free, not tested on animals and scented with plant based oils rather than harsh chemicals. Brands such as TanOrganic are made from completely natural ingredients. TanOrganic is also the world's first and only Eco-certified self tanning brand. This certification means that not only is the product natural, it also supports organic farmers, growers, the environment and are committed to producing high end products that are ethically made.
Premature Aging. Everybody knows that spending endless hours in the sun does absolutely no good for your youthful looks. What a lot of people don't know is that many well known tanning products actually dry out your skin, speeding up the aging process. Add this to the harsh chemicals that kill your skin cells and you could only imagine the irreparable damage that can be done.
All in the Preparation. Don't be a streaker, plan before you tan. The secret to a perfect golden tan is all in the preparation. Exfoliation lies at the heart of healthy skin. Exfoliation involves the removal of the oldest dead skin cells on the skin's outermost surface. Exfoliation results in smooth, healthy, and radiant skin. If you don't exfoliate, your tan won't last very long, as you have not removed the dying skin cells, which will naturally shed soon, and it will also look patchy and streaky. Exfoliating or dry body brushing also does wonders for your circulation, helping to eliminate toxins from the body.
Hydration is Key. Hydration is a vital step in achieving a flawless streak free self-tan that ensures a perfect fade. There are an abundance of things from our everyday lives that suck the moisture out of our skin. It is vital to keep your skin hydrated to help combat early skin aging and damage. This means drinking at least two liters of water each day, and adding hydration-boosting products to your skin care regime.
The Holy Grail of Self-Tanning Products. Use tanning products based with Aloe Vera, the holy grail of skin caring products. Our skin is an extremely delicate structure and as our skin ages. The skin's structure and components of our epidermis begin to deprecate resulting in our skin becoming dryer, less vibrant and looser. Additionally the alterations in our blood circulation result in less oxygen and nutrients being sent to our skin. Aloe Vera which has been used in skin care for hundreds of years and it is one of the most sought after remedies in cosmetics. Aloe Vera is proven to reduce any water loss from the outer layer of our skin and also increase the growth of keratin, which is the key structural material making up the epidermis.
You don't have to tan, you can also glow! You don't have to go dark bronze to reap in the benefits of having a tan. If your more inclined towards light golden glow instead, try a lighter tan that complements your complexion just as fabulously.
What self tanner do you use? Let us know with a note below!
