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Benefits of Steam Sauna
Learning About the Sun's Harmful Rays
Artificial Tanning Agents - Bronzers and Skin Stain
A Reason, A Season...A Lifetime
Professional Skin Analysis
Stress - The Silent Enemy

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Artificial Tanning Agents - Bronzers and Skin Stain

If you want a tan, but heen smart enough to decide that the sun is harmful, there are other alternatives. Artificial tanning agents are a possible answer. Two major classes of safe tanning agents are bronzers and skin stains.

Bronzers contain water soluble pigments that are simply deposited on the skin. No chemical reaction occurs between the skin and the colorant. Being water soluble, bronzers may be washed off with soap and water if you do not like the effect.

Skin stains provide a longer lasting effect. Most of these contain the chemical dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a harmless skin dye that chemically binds to your skin and stains the upper part of the horny layer a brown or reddish brown color. The major advantage of DHA tanning agents is that the color lasts longer and you need only re-apply the tanning agent every three or four days. Your "tan" is lost as the stained cells of the horny layer are naturally shed or washed away. A patch test to a small hidden area of your skin to see if these are the desired results might be a smart idea.