Preparation For Tanning
The basic necessity of getting a glowing brown
tan without having to expose oneself to harmful UV rays for hours has
resulted in the development of a host of products. Sunless tanning is
gradually becoming very popular among people of every age. It has become
a safe alternative to sun tanning, which has been linked to premature
ageing and skin cancer. However, to obtain the most of sunless tanning
techniques, some preparation of the skin surface is essential. When
sunless tanning solutions are applied to the skin, the dihydroxyacetone
contained in them oxidize the external layer of the skin, thus darkening
it color. However, the skin naturally sheds off these cells so that
after a day or two one may find oneself with irregular tanning.
Many professionals recommend that the skin be cleaned thoroughly and
exfoliated before application of tanning solutions. Exfoliation involves
the removal of the outside skin layer. Removal of the external dead skin
cells make the tan last longer as the new cells will not be shed for
some time. The skin naturally sheds off dead cells about every seven
days. With the removal of these cells, the tan also fades away. If the
tanned cells are conserved for a longer period then the tan will
automatically last longer. Moreover, exfoliation means that the whole
body is following the same cycle of shedding old cells and renewal with
new cells. This implies that a consistent tan will be obtained.
The following are some tips to allow for good exfoliation:
• Shave before applying tanning solution or exfoliator. A shaved skin
surface leads to more uniform tan. However, if you have sensitive skin,
shave a few hours before tanning. This will prevent some painful
consequences.
• Remove all traces of make-up and other impurities that will make the
tanning process ineffective. Lotions and perfumes should also be avoided
as they may interfere with the absorption of the dihydroxyacetone
contained in tanning solutions.
• Exfoliate using soft cotton cloths. Nylon scrubbers and loofahs give a
streaky effect when applying the tanning solution.
• Exfoliators with polyethylene as the active ingredient are the most
effective.
• Exfoliation should be performed the night before application of the
sunless tanning solution or at least a few hours before.
• Products that balance the skin pH and remove excess oils and perfumes
should be preferred.
Some exfoliators contain additional ingredients that stimulate the tired
skin cells, for example essential oils from peppermint or orange.
Application of exfoliators is made as follows: rub large amounts of the
exfoliator liquid on the whole body (where tanning solution will be
applied). Pay particular attention to areas with thick skin (elbows,
knees…etc.). Do not forget areas that are not easily accessible (the
back or buttocks). Use help from someone else if necessary.
Professionals recommend that exfoliators be applied onto wet skin,
preferably in the shower. Moist skin is more receptive to solutions than
a dry one. Various types of exfoliators are now available on the market.
 |
