Skin tanning is the process by which skin is made to attain a darker appearance than the normal one, called a tan. This can be done in a natural way by exposing oneself to the UV rays of the sun or using man-made products, which is called sunless tanning. Methods not involving the sun have become more widespread among many people after doctors discovered the role of UV in skin cancer.
One way of getting skin tanned from UV is by lying in the sun, which is a recreational activity referred to as sunbathing. This is the most basic and probably easiest way to get a tan. How fast or how well suntan works can also be influenced by another condition referred to as windburn. Windburn is the effect of the wind removing the lipid layer of skin which keeps out ultraviolet radiation, thus increasing the tanning.
The other way of getting a tan by ultraviolet means is achieving a suitable form of UV radiation using a device called a sunbed or a tanning bed. The device features fluorescent lamps with phosphor covers that emit rays similar to those of the sun. The most of the produced radiation is UV A but there is a tiny proportion of consisting of UV B. Lying in a tanning bed is almost like sunbathing.
A skin can also be tanned without the sun or any UV radiation. Techniques of getting skin tanned without sunlight are called fake tanning or UV-free tanning. This method will involve use of chemicals either orally or topically to cause the skin to tan as though it was exposed to UV radiation.
Pills containing beta-carotene have become very useful for non-UV tanning because they produce a lasting effect and protect against sunburn. Sunburn is the discoloring of the skin due to excessive exposure to sunlight. Beta-carotene produces a better skin tone than sun tanning and eliminates the risk of cancer posed by the sun.
There are other different compounds besides beta-carotene that are used to manufacture UV-free tanning products. Pills or products based on beta-carotene remain the most popular choice for getting a tan, though. Also, some people have started to use temporary tanning solutions like creams and powders that come off when cleaned with water.
Sun gods and goddesses, have a look at our website for great tips on how to get the perfect tan, now. You can also find more information about the reasons why you should use Sun Laboratories’ Tan Overnight self tan lotion, today.
