To prevent the lasting damage of UV rays on the skin, there are simpler, more effective, and safer ways to achieve a tan without the risk of sun exposure. Self-tanning products are among these. However, many self-tanning products are available on the market today, making the choice more complex. Here are some tips to help you select and find the self-tanning product that suits you.
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How to choose the right self-tanner?
Summary
- Criterion No. 1: Pay attention to the concentration of self-tanning active ingredients
- Criterion No. 2: Verify the formulation of the self-tanning product
- Criterion No. 3: Consider the formulation of the self-tanner according to your skin type
Published February 21, 2022,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
5 min read
Criterion No. 1: Pay attention to the concentration of self-tanning active ingredients.
The self-tanners contain between 1 to 15% of DHA. The higher the DHA content, the darker your skin tone will be.
Depending on the desired tan shade, the concentration of DHA can influence the choice of self-tanner. As a result, there are two types of self-tanners: "classic" self-tanners for intense tanning and "progressive" self-tanners. The classic self-tanners with 5 to 15% DHA allow for a pronounced bronzed complexion to be achieved within a few hours after application, lasting for five to seven days.
On the other hand, progressive self-tanners have a lower DHA concentration (<3%) but sufficient for a subtle tanning effect. This means that the tan will appear over time, with each application, thus allowing the intensity of the colouration to be adjusted as desired. This type of self-tanner is particularly suitable for fair skin, as they offer a more subtle tan than other formulas.
With 10% DHA, our self-tanning serum is a progressive self-tanner that can be applied daily to achieve a natural-looking tan depending on the number of drops mixed with your regular face cream.
Criterion No. 2: Verify the formulation of the self-tanning product.
Beyond the self-tanning active ingredients (DHA, erythrulose, etc.), choose a product that also contains antioxidant agents (vitamin C, vitamin E, resveratrol, etc.) and moisturising agents (aloe vera, glycerine, hyaluronic acid, vegetable oils, etc.). Indeed, DHA, the chemical agent responsible for the natural tanned glow, can be quite drying for certain skin types.
In conjunction with DHA and erythrulose, our self-tanning serum also contains carob extract and buriti oil. As for our body self-tanning gel, it additionally includes aloe vera and turmeric extract.
Furthermore, it is advisable to seek a self-tanner without irritating ingredients to limit the risk of allergic reactions. Indeed, many self-tanning formulas can contain fragrances and high concentrations of alcohol, which can worsen the appearance of the skin in the long term, especially for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Before using a self-tanning product, test it by applying a small amount of the product to a small area of skin (behind the ear, inner wrist, elbow crease, etc.). Then wait 24 hours to see how your skin reacts.
Criterion No. 3: Consider the formulation of the self-tanner according to your skin type.
On the market, the self-tanners are available in many formats, each of which presents its own advantages and disadvantages.
Mist, spray: Aerial, easy to use and with a moisturising formula, mists and aerosol sprays can be sprayed everywhere, thus helping to cover the most difficult parts of the body to reach. Thanks to the fine spray, they also allow for a more uniform application without the need for a glove, thereby reducing the risk of streaks. However, one of the main drawbacks is the dosage.
Cream, lotion and milk: In addition to providing a tanned complexion to the skin, these types of self-tanners are the best for the face as they moisturise the skin at the same time. They are therefore more suitable for dry skin. However, their creamy texture can make application challenging, which is less so with the milk, resulting in a less uniform outcome than with other self-tanning products.
Gel: With its cool, non-sticky feel, gels have a quicker drying time as they contain a low proportion of oily phase.
Wipes: Convenient, single-use wipes are portable products that are ideal for achieving a faux tan during travels and trips.
Foam: Pleasant to apply, foam-textured formulas have a lighter consistency that is better suited to users with oily skin. In addition to drying quickly and not sticking, the foam self-tanner delivers results more quickly, as well as a longer-lasting and more even tan.
Serum: This form of self-tanner is the most customisable and adjustable among the various self-tanners, meaning it offers more control over the shade of the tan. The more you use, the darker the tan will be. It can easily be added to your daily moisturising cream (face and body) for a tan that develops over a few hours.
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