Self-tanners have been around since the end of the 50s. Whether you have too fair skin or have a sun allergy, they allow you to have a tan without suffering UV toxicity. But old self-tanners that gave random results to application errors, it is not always easy to choose. Let’s take a closer look at what is in self-tanners.

Invented at the end of the 50s, self-tanners only really took off in the 90s. A tanned complexion was then the norm to be part of an upper class who could go on vacation in the sun. In other words, the exact reverse, barely a century earlier and even before that, of the period when the more tanned people were, the less elite they were.

Even today, being tanned is a trend. However, this fashion has taken on another dimension as the danger of the sun on the skin has become known. We now know that high-dose UV rays are responsible for melanoma. In addition, the sun’s rays are the main cause of aging of the skin and therefore of wrinkles.

So that self-tanners have easily convinced people who want to be tanned without suffering the harmful effects of the sun. Especially since, more and more sophisticated, from classic self-tanners to progressives, they are now aimed at all skin types and all profiles.

DHA, the original self-tanner molecule

DHA (for Dihydroxyacetone) is a molecule close to sugar which was used for the invention of the self-tanner. Be careful, do not confuse it with the other DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), rich in Omega 3.

Initially, this substance comes from the bark of chestnut trees. Today, it is most often synthesized in conventional products sold commercially, but from natural substances such as sugar cane or corn.

Applied to the skin, DHA will come into contact with the amino acids present on the stratum corneum. In other words, dead cells. This is also the reason why applying a self-tanner without having previously performed an exfoliation results in a more or less dark tan depending on the areas, or even spots.

Thus, like a caramel, the substance will turn brown and give the surface layer of the skin a dark color. To achieve this result depending on the skin tone, the concentration of DHA in the product is more or less important, between 3 and 7%.

Erythrulose, the progressive self-tanner

A second molecule now comes into play: erythrulose. It is also a natural sugar with the same properties as DHA on the skin. Arrived more recently on the self-tanning market, it allows a more homogeneous and above all progressive tan. However, the two molecules are regularly used together.

Mistrust around classic beauty products is growing. When it comes to self-tanners, there are also some problematic substances. However, it is not the self-tanning substances in the product that can be a problem.. The two molecules that cause the reaction on the skin’s surface are harmless.

It is in fact the other substances, common to many other creams and milks, that can potentially be dangerous. Whether it is allergenic or irritant molecules, or even certain products which contain endocrine disruptors.

In other words, always check the composition of your self-tanner, just like other products. You will thus know if, apart from the molecules necessary for its primary effectiveness, it contains problematic substances. To find your way around, consumer associations provide you with online lists. There are also applications that allow products to be scanned to better decipher their composition before buying them.

Applying a self-tanner is not a trivial act, even more on the face. The coloring will persist for several days, the result is even more important.

In order to get a tan up to it, be sure to choose a self-tanner suited to your skin tone. The concentration of active molecules will thus be higher or lower.

Finally, to be sure of your tan, especially if you have fair skin, prefer progressive self-tanners. The tan will appear application by application more evenly.

Whether for the face or the body, make a scrub before applying the self-tanner. This will prevent stains, especially on the knees or elbows. Your tan will be more harmonious.

In addition, self-tanners are not sun protections as such. Even with a nice tan obtained with this product, do not forget to apply an anti-UV protective cream if you expose yourself. However, many brands have developed 2-in-1 products with built-in sun protection.

Finally, regarding the characteristic smell of self-tanners a few minutes after application, unfortunately nothing can be done. Some offer a better smell than others but it is not possible to be sure beforehand. However, products with plant active ingredients have fewer drawbacks in this regard, the odor being masked by those of the plants.

The best self-tanners are therefore those that do not contain problematic substances, which leave an even tan and a pleasant smell, if possible.