Natural vs DHA Based Bronzers: Choosing the Right Type for Your Tan

Understanding Bronzers

Bronzing tanning creams, known as Bronzers, are specialised lotions designed to enhance and deepen the tanning process by adding an extra boost of colour.

These creams contain bronzing agents that provide an immediate or delayed tan, depending on the type of bronzer used. Some Bronzers contain accelerators that stimulate melanin production when used on a tanning bed or outdoor tanning.

DHA Bronzers: These are delayed bronzers that use  dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colourless sugar that reacts with the skin's outer layer to develop a darker colour over a few hours.

Natural Bronzers: Derived from ingredients like caramel, walnut extract, or henna, these provide an instant, temporary glow that washes off after a few sessions.

Combination Bronzers:  These lotions combine DHA and natural bronzers to deliver an immediate glow and a longer-lasting tan.

Bronzing tanning creams also contain moisturising agents and skin-nourishing ingredients that help prevent dryness caused by UV exposure, ensuring a more even and longer-lasting tan. They're ideal for achieving a deeper, more radiant colour while minimising streaks and uneven patches.

Types of Bronzers

Natural Bronzers

Natural bronzers provide an instant bronze glow on the skin's surface while promoting the development of a natural tan underneath. To achieve this effect, they use brown-based, natural ingredients such as caramel, henna, banana, and walnut shell extract.

These bronzers are designed to be streak-free and won't leave stains. The colour typically lasts 1-2 days while your natural tan develops underneath. They're perfect for anyone seeking instant colour and a natural-looking tan.

DHA-Based Bronzers

DHA bronzers combine a high concentration of DHA with Erythrulose to provide streak-free, immediate results. This key ingredient gives the skin its gorgeous golden glow. The colour develops gradually over several hours after the session, typically lasting 5-7 days.

These bronzers offer a longer-lasting tan and are ideal for both fair and darker skin tones. Proper application is essential to prevent streaks and ensure an even, flawless finish.

Selecting a Bronzer Based on Skin Type and Tone

Understanding your skin type is the first step to ensuring you select the right tanning product and achieve the best results!

If you have fair or sensitive skin, opt for natural bronzers, as they are gentler and less likely to cause irritation. Look for bronzers that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera to keep the skin hydrated.

DHA bronzers suit darker skin tones or those seeking a longer-lasting tan. They are ideal for tanners who have hit a tanning 'plateau' after using tanning accelerators and want to achieve a darker-looking tan.

Using Bronzers with Other Tanning Products

• Use a bronzer with an accelerating indoor tanning lotion to enhance your tanning experience.
• Combine a natural bronzer with a self-tanning lotion such as the Slay All Day Gradual tanning moisturiser for a longer-lasting tan.
• Apply a bronzer after a spray tanning session to maintain and enhance the colour.
• Experienced tanners can mix tingle lotions with bronzers and accelerators for an even deeper tan.
• Be cautious when using multiple tanning products, as they can interact and affect the results.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results

• Exfoliate your skin before applying a bronzer to ensure an even application.
• Use a moisturiser after tanning to maintain skin health, hydration and tan longevity.
• Avoid using bronzers on sensitive areas, such as the face or neck.
• Follow the instructions for application and maintenance to achieve the best results.

Choosing the Right Tanning Lotion for Your Bronzer

• Select a tanning lotion that complements your skin type, such as a natural bronzer with a natural-based tanning lotion.
• Consider a tanning lotion with UV protection to enhance the tanning process.
• To maintain skin health, look for a tanning lotion with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E.
• Avoid using a fake tan or self-tanning lotion with a bronzer, as they can interact and affect the results.