Understanding Tan Accelerators
Tan Accelerators are products designed to speed up the natural tanning process by stimulating melanin production, resulting in a faster achieving of a darker tan.
Tan Accelerators come in various forms, including lotions, oils, and sprays, and can be applied to the skin before exposure to UV radiation (UV rays).
Tan Accelerators boost the natural production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, to achieve a deeper tan. They are suitable for all skin tones, ranging from fair to naturally tanned skin.
They can enhance the tanning process by enhancing sun exposure, either through natural sunlight or on tanning beds.
The Science Behind Tan Accelerators
Tan accelerators contain active ingredients such as Tyrosine, which, when exposed to UV, automatically stimulates melanin production in the skin, speeding up the tanning process.
- Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its colour, and increased production can lead to a darker tan.
- The natural tanning process occurs when skin is exposed to UV rays either from the sun or a tanning bed, which then Tan Accelerators can help speed up this process.
- Most Tan accelerators can also contain key ingredients that moisturise, hydrate, and soften the skin, such as Shea butter and Jojoba Oil.
- Hydrated skin tans much better than dry skin, so using a Tan Accelerator will allow UV to penetrate the skin deeply, resulting in a darker, deeper tan.
Benefits and Risks of Tan Accelerators
Tan Accelerators are beneficial to people who want help achieving the natural-looking tan they desire faster and with a more even tan all over.
Accelerating creams are most commonly clear or white formulations, which reduce the risk of patchiness or streakiness, which is more associated with fake tans that contain ingredients such as DHA.
However, there are risks of using a Tan Accelerator alongside sunbathing. These harmful UV rays penetrate deeper into the skin, increasing the risk of skin damage, such as premature ageing or sunburn, as well as the high risk of skin cancer.
It is essential to use sun protection, such as sun cream, alongside a Tanning Accelerator to minimise these risks and protect the skin.
Safe Tanning Practices with Tan Accelerators
Implementing safe tanning practices when using a Tan Accelerator and tanning outdoors is important to ensure a safe tanning experience.
- When using Tan Accelerators, use a broad-spectrum sun cream with a high SPF.
- At MEGATAN, we recommend applying sun protection products at least 20-30 minutes before applying a Tan Accelerator and going outdoors to tan.
- Limit sun exposure and stay out of the sun when UV rays are strongest. Set yourself a timer and take regular breaks from the sun to reduce excessive UV exposure.
- Exfoliate your skin before applying tan accelerators to remove dead skin cells and ensure an even application. We recommend exfoliating 24 hours before sun exposure using a gentle exfoliant.
- Follow the recommended application guidelines for the tan accelerator product.
Preparing Your Skin for Tanning
Preparing your skin before tanning is essential to ensure an even-tanned natural result.
- Exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface for tanning. Removing dead skin cells allows the UV rays to tan the skin deeper.
- Moisturise your skin to keep it hydrated and promote a healthy-looking tan.
- Avoid harsh soaps or exfoliating products that can strip away your skin's natural oils.
- Use a gentle, moisturising soap or body wash to clean your skin before applying tan accelerators.
Choosing the Right Tan Accelerator
There are many Tanning Accelerators available, but it is important to select a product that is most suitable for your skin type and tone.
Look for products that contain natural ingredients and essential oils.
A great ingredient to look for is Aloe vera. This natural ingredient can be found in most tanning accelerators, and it naturally soothes the skin from any redness or irritation. Aloe vera also works to keep the skin hydrated.
Choose a product that suits your skin type and tone. If you have oily skin, select a tanning accelerator with a lightweight formula. If you have dry skin, opt for a product that is more hydrating and contains moisturising agents.
Consider the level of sun protection the product provide to prevent sunburn.
Read online reviews and follow the recommended application guidelines for the product.
Natural and Synthetic Ingredients in Tan Accelerators
Tanning accelerators are formulated with natural, synthetic, or combination ingredients.
- Natural ingredients - Ingredients such as Aloe Vera and Shea Butter can help moisturise and nourish the skin. Natural ingredients are suitable for people with sensitive skin, as these ingredients are found in hypoallergenic products.
- Synthetic ingredients - Synthetic ingredients, such as Tyrosine, can help stimulate melanin production and achieve a deeper tan.
- We recommend always to read the product label and follow the recommended usage instructions.
Maximising Your Tan
To achieve the best results, consistently use a tan accelerator to attain a deep, dark tan faster. A combination of tanning accelerators alongside UV exposure, either gained from natural sun or from indoor sunbeds, enhances the natural tanning process.
After UV exposure, it is essential to keep the skin hydrated and moisturised by regularly moisturising. Using a moisturiser or even a tan-extending moisturiser helps to promote a healthy-looking tan while also prolonging the tanned result.
A staff favourite at MEGATAN is the Beaches and Creme ultra rich tan-extending moisturiser. 
Avoid exfoliating too frequently, as this can remove dead skin cells and reduce the longevity and appearance of your tan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When planning your tanning routine, whether in natural sunlight or using indoor sun beds, several common mistakes can occur. Avoid these mistakes to protect your skin while achieving an even, sun-kissed tan.
Here are those common mistakes:
- Not using sun protection such as sun cream while using tan accelerators for outdoor tanning. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays and apply sun cream at least 20 minutes before applying a tan accelerator.
- Avoid excessive UV exposure and take regular breaks from the sun, or limit your tanning session time when using sunbeds.
- Avoid exfoliating your skin too frequently. Too much exfoliating will remove dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of your tan and causing it to fade quickly.
- Not following the recommended application guidelines for the tan accelerator product. Check the back of the bottle of the tan accelerator for the recommended use.
- Use harsh soaps or exfoliating products that can strip away your skin's natural oils, which will cause your natural tan to fade.
Alternatives to Tan Accelerators
Tan accelerators work and are designed to speed up the skin's natural tanning process by increasing melanin production while exposed to UV radiation; however, you can still achieve a natural tan without the use of them.
- Self-tan/fake tans, such as self-tanning lotions, sprays, foams, and serums, are available in different shades, which can provide a sun-kissed glow or extreme dark tan only on the skin's surface. These are the best alternatives to achieve a safe tan without the need for UV radiation (UV rays).
- Tanning beds can provide a faster and more intense tan, but they also increase the risk of skin damage such as premature skin ageing, resulting in fine lines and wrinkles and the risk of skin cancer.
- Natural tanning methods, such as spending time outdoors, can provide a sun-kissed glow without needing products.
- Always prioritise sun protection and skin safety when using any tanning method.
Conclusion
Incorporating a tan accelerator into your tanning routine is a great way to speed up the tanning process and increase melanin production, achieving the desired tanning result. However, tanning accelerators must be used safely and responsibly to protect the skin's health and appearance.
Always use UV protection and sun cream when tanning outdoors. Follow the product's recommended application and use guidelines.
To prioritise your skin's safety and health, consider alternative tanning methods that do not require the use of UV rays.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a sun-kissed and healthy tan all year round!
