Tan from the drugstore: Are self-tanners dangerous

Skin tanning is the natural pigmentation of the skin. However, an excess of natural or fake tan can be harmful.

Whether in the cold winter time, before an important event or as a preliminary stage for the natural summer tan on vacation - artificial tanning methods are regular beauty helpers. In addition to the fact that they give the skin a summery complexion, they make many users feel better.

This is mainly due to the fact that a healthy, slightly tanned skin color is associated with health and beauty. As an alternative to the artificial solarium tan or the modern spray tanning, many consumers now choose the self-tanner from the drugstore. This is usually a cream or spray.

The users apply these products to the skin themselves so that, for example, the tan strength can be individually adjusted. In this context, however, the question arises as to whether self-tanners have a negative impact on health, which is why this following article is devoted to answering this question.

Instructions for use, risks and tips: Self-tanners from the drugstore

For many consumers, the advantage of self-tanners is obvious, because the skin is colored without harmful UV light from the sun or solarium. In contrast to the classic body lotion, there are a few things to consider when applying self-tanning creams or sprays in order to actually get an even and beautiful tan.

Application advice: It is particularly important to apply lotion evenly. If you apply too thick and unevenly, you will get a blotchy result. Self-tanners shouldn't be used regularly. There should be a rest period of at least five days between applications. Consumers should always make sure to use a self-tanner that is suitable for their skin type. There are both special variants for dry skin and for oily skin types. A quick and thorough cleaning after application is very important to prevent unsightly spots on the hands. Risks: People who suffer from skin diseases can find out more about the use of self-tanners from their family doctor or dermatologist. There is also a risk for allergy sufferers. Too long storage times lead to favorable conditions for the formation of formaldehyde. This substance is harmful because it is said to cause cancer. The formation of formaldehyde is due to another substance in the self-tanner. This is called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This is an unstable substance that can turn into formaldehyde. Artificial fragrances harm the body, such as the liver. Tips: Experts recommend a body scrub before applying any self-tanner. The reason for this are horny areas that would absorb an excessive amount of tanning cream without peeling. If a tube or bottle of self-tanner has been opened, it is advisable to use it up quickly. The product should be thrown away after three months at the latest. It is very important to store the self-tanner in a cool and dry place. It is also advisable not to expose the tanning lotion to direct sunlight. Using gloves to rub the self-tanner on your body is a good idea to keep your hands out until the end and rub in last.

Different areas of application for self-tanners

There are several reasons why the tube tan is resorted to. These can be cosmetic or medical concerns. The most common areas of application for self-tanners include:

• Pigment disorders: With these skin diseases, the complexion of the skin changes color irregularly, so that a uniform complexion is not possible. With self-tanners and other cosmetics, people who suffer from a pigmentation disorder have the opportunity to unify their skin color.

• Summer complexion: Another reason why consumers like to go for a quick summer tan is the fact that they can convince with a light, natural tan even before the start of summer. For example, if you need last-minute summer skin for an event, self-tanners come closest to achieving this desired result.

• Look healthy all year round: In winter, most people's skin is very light, sometimes with a light gray haze. This is due to the few hours of sunshine in the cold season. With a self-tanner, users can enjoy a year-round tan.

• Color selection: In addition, many consumers see a cosmetic advantage over classic UV light or tanning beds, because with a tanning lotion, the skin color can be determined individually at any time. The products are available in a variety of colors in the drugstore.

Tip: Before the wrong product moves into the beauty range, it is advisable to compare the reviews of the individual self-tanners on goodsvergleich.de and, if necessary, spend a little more money on a higher quality product.

An overview of the advantages and disadvantages of common tanning methods

A healthy tan looks attractive and healthy. Especially in summer, many people in Germany want to present their skin in a fresh skin color.

The human skin is not only the most diverse organ in the body, it is also the largest. It has numerous functions that affect both the protection and regulation of the body, which is why the skin should always be cared for.

The following overview is therefore intended to provide information about the advantages and disadvantages of tanning methods in order to show the dangers that the skin is exposed to.

1. UV light is the free summer tan straight from the most natural source

Whether summer vacation in the South Seas or in Germany, the power of the sun should not be underestimated anywhere. Although UV light is important for the formation of vitamin D, the radiation at high intensity can also be harmful to the skin and eyes.

Advantages: + Naturally tanned complexion + Free Disadvantage: - Risk of sunburn without sunscreen - Favoring skin cancer and skin aging

2. The solarium tan treats the body with artificial UV radiation.

Similar to natural UV light, artificial UV radiation also causes damaging light influences to stress the skin. As a rule, these are devices that are suitable for the whole body. The light tubes are built into the lid and the lying surface so that every region of the body receives an even and streak-free tan.

Advantages: + Year-round use + Fast and uncomplicated application Disadvantage: - Extremely damaging to the skin - Too frequent use leads to an unnatural tan

Why the tan from the solarium tube is so dangerous can be read in detail again for consumers on dak.de.

3. Self-tanners as a supposedly skin-friendly alternative to natural and artificial UV radiation.

The popularity of the summer tan from the tube is increasing due to the fact that it is supposed to be a skin-friendly alternative. As already mentioned, the tanning creams work without UV light, but have other not to be despised disadvantages:

Advantages: + Ease of use and cheaper products + Fast, individual tan Disadvantage: - Blotchy and partly yellowish result - With ingredients that are harmful to the skin

Various ingredients of cosmetics can be read on verbüberszentrale.de, which, for example, should definitely be viewed critically for health reasons.