For those looking to get a bronzy glow for the beach, days hanging at the pool, or just summer fun in general, tanning oil can definitely make it happen!
But what does tanning oil do exactly? I hear you ask.
That’s why I’m here. Moreover, there are things to consider, such as safe use and ingredients, before soaking up the sun or hitting the tanning bed with tanning oil.
As we here at SimplySunSafe love spending time in the sunshine, we looked at the basics of tanning oil and the important points to make the tanning process safe and effective.
What’s up with Tanning Oil?
Tanning oils can seriously boost the tanning process. If you’re trying to get a deeper, darker tan in less time, lathering up with tanning oil while laying out in the sunshine or in a tanning bed can help you accomplish this. Tanning oils work in a few different ways on the skin to promote the bronzing effect.
First of all, ingredients in tanning oils can actually help attract the sun’s UV rays and work to precisely disperse the UV rays on the skin. Tanning oil can also help to intensify the interaction of UV rays on the skin.
Did you know that the production of melanin is what gives you a darker skin tone? Melanin is produced in the lower layer of the skin (the epidermis) by cells called melanocytes. Tanning oil can actually encourage melanocytes to produce more melanin resulting in a darker skin tone.
DHA – what the heck is that?
Some tanning oils contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a natural sugar, which also helps to intensify the darkening of the skin. This colorless ingredient interacts with the amino acids of your skin’s outer layer ending in a bronzing effect. Because this mainly affects the surface layer, as once the dead skin cells are rubbed off, the bronze goes with them.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Just as our body needs adequate hydration, so does our skin. This is particularly true when we are spending a lot of time in the sun or tanning beds, which dry our skin out. Many tanning oils contain hydrating ingredients like vitamin E, glycerin, and panthenol. These work to draw in moisture and lock it in on the skin. This also helps prevent the skin from peeling. Who doesn’t love that?
Is Tanning Oil Safe to Use?
In terms of the ingredients found in tanning oils, it is generally considered safe to use on all skin types. The reaction that tanning oil has with the sun and the skin, however, can have long-term negative effects if used frequently or for long periods of time.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 to safely block 97% of harmful UV rays. Similarly, the Skin Cancer Foundation suggests regular use of at least SPF 15 to reduce risk of melanoma by 50% and the development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by 40%.
Because most tanning oils don’t contain any SPF, or if so in very low numbers, it is recommended to apply sunscreen before applying tanning oil for better protection.
One tanning oil ingredient that might raise a red flag for some users is gluten. Gluten is a protein that is naturally found in mineral oils. The problem occurs when gluten is absorbed by the skin in excess. It can cause serious skin problems such as dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), which shows up as chronic blisters on the skin.
Is Tanning Oil Okay for Pale Skin?
For most skin types it’s important to first get a good base tan before aggressively applying tanning oil and laying out. This is especially true for pale skin which could just burn instead of darken without a base layer. It is recommended to start with shorter amounts of time in the sun or tanning bed, and regular use of sunscreen or a tanning oil with at least SPF 30.
Once a base layer is established, you can increase your time in the sun. Just be sure to always keep your skin protected!
Does Tanning Oil Cause Burns or Skin Cancer?
The nature of tanning oil and its ability to attract the sun and accelerate the UV effects on skin can certainly lead to skin burning and, over time, skin cancer if used unsafely. The skin can tan or burn in as little as 10 minutes if not properly protected.
Additionally, heavy cumulative sun exposure can lead to freckles, wrinkles, and the growth of abnormal skin cells which can lead to skin cancer. This occurs largely because of the UV damage on the skin’s elastin. As the elastin fibers break down, the skin begins to sag and loses the ability to stretch back into place, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
In short, although tanning oil doesn’t directly cause burning or skin abnormalities, it can influence negative effects if overused or used without proper sun protection in conjunction.
What are the best tanning oils?
With a huge selection of tanning oils on the market today, it can be hard to navigate through and find something that works for you. Some things to consider:
- Gluten Free: More brands are creating formulas for tanning oils that are gluten-free. This is particularly important to those who may have skin sensitive to gluten and those using tanning oil frequently
- SPF: Because of the importance in protecting skin against harmful UV rays, many tanning oil brands are incorporating SPF 15 and higher. As per the suggestion of the AAD, look for tanning oils with at least SPF 30 for the safest results.
- Natural Ingredients: Many tanning oil brands are turning to natural ingredients such as coconut oil, avocado oil and aloe vera to make oils that are safer and friendlier for our skin.
1. Hawaiian Tropic
- Exotic island botanicals, a rare blend of nature's rich oils
- Protected by broad-spectrum UVA or UVB sunscreens, your skin is soft and looks radiant
- Nourishing antioxidants
- Lightweight feel
- Indulge, pamper, nourish for beautiful radiant skin
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Sun Bum
- SPF 15 DARK TANNING OIL . For those of us who love to get golden brown but still want our skin to be nourished, silky smooth, and protected. Our broad spectrum SPF 15 UVA/UVB Protecting Dark Tanning Oil is perfect to get bronzed with protection!
- MOISTURIZING SUN PROTECTION. Our water resistant and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant sun protection is great for all skin types. Delight your skin with Aloe Vera, Green Tea Butter, Marula, Argan, Coconut and Avocado Oil with our original summer scent.
- HOW TO USE. Spray, rub in, and then bask in those sunny rays to achieve your ultimate golden glow! Apply liberally to body and avoid the eye area. Sonny’s Tip: Use with a regular sunscreen to ensure full sun protection.
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to practicing safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Original Sunscreen line is Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Coconut Joe’s
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Bali Body
- STIMULATES MELANIN: Made with watermelon seed oil, this tanning oil can stimulate the production of melanin which brings the tan color to the skin.
- NOURISHES AND REPLENISHES THE SKIN: Brimming with minerals and antioxidants, the Bali Body Watermelon Seed Oil diligently nourishes the skin from within, while enhancing its external radiance. This formula not only hydrates the skin, but also wards off early signs of aging.
- LIGHTWEIGHT FORMULA: This tanning oil is refreshingly light and non-greasy, offering a comfortable feel on your skin. It seamlessly glides over your skin, ensuring even and coverage.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: Our cruelty-free product is specially formulated with plant-based and 100% vegan ingredients to provide an even tan that suits all skin types. You can trust that we do not test on animals.
- PERFECT FOR SUMMER: Make this your summer essential! It gives your skin a gorgeous tan and a delightful watermelon scent.
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
FAQs
What is a safe amount of time to spend tanning?
For outdoor tanning, if using sunscreen and reapplying appropriately, one can safely be outside for 1 to 2 hours and maybe more. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water as well.
Because tanning beds deliver three times the amount of UVA radiation, it is recommended to spend shorter amounts of time, 15 to 20 minutes, just a few times a week at most.
What is a natural tanning oil substitute?
Healthy substitutes for commercial tanning oils include coconut oil, avocado oil, argan oil, olive oil and aloe vera. The oils provide hydration and fatty acids to aid the skin, while aloe vera keeps the skin cool and moist, and prevents peeling.
Wrap Up on Tanning Oil
Now you know how tanning oil works. And, with summer just around the corner and the desire to get the skin bronzed and ready for summer fun, tanning oil can absolutely enhance the process. Just remember to use tanning oil safely and in conjunction with sunscreen and shade as needed. After all, the best looking skin is healthy skin!
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