The Science Fake Tanning

The two most common chemicals in self tanners are dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and Erythrulose, both of which work by reacting with the amino acids on the skin surface.

Sunless tanning or self-tanning or fake tanning, as we like to call it! products have been around in some form or other since the invention of cosmetics. In 1960, Coppertone introduced its first sunless tanning product - QT® or Quick Tanning Lotion. This lotion produced an overall orange effect. Today's fake tanning products produce much more realistic results. Tanning pills, sunless tanning or self-tanning or fake tanning lotions and sprays, and cosmetic bronzers are available to impart a subtle bronze glow or a deep, dark tan.
Bronzers yield immediate results, although some fake tanning products require 45 minutes to an hour or even longer before taking effect. Although fake tanning products can yield a golden glow, they do not protect the skin from the ultraviolet radiation in the sun's rays the way melanin in a 'real' tan does, so users of fake tanning products without SPF need to apply sunscreen before venturing out in the sun.

Why Do Tans Fade?

Skin takes a lot of wear and tear, so it naturally regenerates itself. Every 35-45 days the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is completely replaced. Since skin pigment is found in this upper layer, any natural or added pigment will be sloughed away in about one month's time. This is why natural tans fade and why many fake tanning products recommend you re-apply the product every few days or every week to maintain your tan.

Learn How to Apply Fake Tan with TanBelievable