Tanning Accelerators

How Do Tanning Accelerators Work?

How Tanning Accelerators Work and Are They Safe Your Guide to a Sun-Kissed Glow

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.

 

Category Details
What Are Tan Accelerators?
  • Products designed to speed up the natural tanning process by stimulating melanin production.
  • Available as lotions, oils, or sprays for application before UV exposure.
  • Suitable for all skin tones and can be used with natural sunlight or tanning beds.
The Science Behind Tan Accelerators
  • Contain active ingredients like Tyrosine to stimulate melanin production when exposed to UV rays.
  • Moisturising agents like Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil hydrate the skin for better tanning results.
  • Hydrated skin allows UV rays to penetrate deeper, resulting in a darker tan.
Benefits of Tan Accelerators
  • Achieve a deeper, faster, and more even tan.
  • Reduce streakiness associated with fake tans.
  • Hydrate and nourish the skin for a smoother, healthier finish.
Risks of Tan Accelerators
  • Prolonged UV exposure can increase the risk of skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.
  • Always use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect the skin.
Safe Tanning Practices
  • Apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before using a tan accelerator and going outdoors.
  • Limit sun exposure and avoid peak UV hours.
  • Exfoliate 24 hours before application for an even tan.
  • Follow the product's application guidelines for best results.
Choosing the Right Tan Accelerator
  • Look for natural ingredients like Aloe Vera for hydration and soothing properties.
  • Choose lightweight formulas for oily skin and hydrating formulas for dry skin.
  • Read reviews and select a product suitable for your skin type and tone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
  • Skipping sunscreen while tanning outdoors.
  • Overexposing your skin to UV rays or not taking breaks.
  • Exfoliating too frequently, which can fade your tan.
  • Using harsh soaps that strip natural oils and cause dryness.
Alternatives to Tan Accelerators
  • Self-Tan: Use lotions, sprays, foams, or serums for a sun-kissed look without UV exposure.
  • Natural Tanning: Spend time outdoors while prioritising sun protection.
  • Tanning Beds: Provide an intense tan but come with risks of skin damage.
Maximising Your Tan

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. ProTan Beaches & Creme Tan Extending Moisturiser 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!

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