Unraveling the Mysteries: How Does Our Skin Tan?

Posted on November 14, 2023 by admin

Welcome to our deep dive into the fascinating world of human biology! Today, we’re unraveling one of nature’s most intriguing puzzles: How does our skin tan? Many of us love the bronzed, sun-kissed look of a summer tan, but have you ever stopped to wonder about the science behind it? This process involves more than just lounging in the sun. It’s a complex reaction involving melanin, UV rays, and your skin’s protective mechanisms. So, grab your sunscreen and join us as we explore the intricacies of tanning.

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Understanding Melanin

To understand tanning, we must first understand a key player in the process: melanin. This natural pigment is responsible for giving our hair, eyes, and skin their color. It’s produced by specialized cells called melanocytes, found in the bottom layer of our epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). These cells produce two types of melanin: eumelanin, which gives skin a brown or black color, and pheomelanin, which creates red and yellow tones. The amount and type of melanin we have is determined by our genetics.

How Tanning Happens

So how does our skin tan? When exposed to UV radiation from the sun (or tanning beds), our skin reacts by producing more melanin. The melanocytes release this pigment into surrounding skin cells, causing them to darken in color. This is your body’s natural defense mechanism against UV damage. By increasing the amount of melanin in your skin, it helps to absorb and dissipate harmful UV rays before they can reach deeper layers of tissue.

The Role of UV Rays

UV rays are the key to tanning, but they can also cause damage to our skin. There are three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC is filtered out by the Earth’s ozone layer, but both UVA and UVB rays can reach us. These rays penetrate different depths of our skin, with UVA rays reaching the deepest layers. They can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and age spots, while UVB rays are responsible for sunburns.

The Science Behind Sunscreen

As we mentioned before, sunscreen plays a crucial role in protecting our skin from UV rays. It contains ingredients that either reflect or absorb these harmful rays, preventing them from damaging our skin cells. Some sunscreens also contain antioxidants, which help repair any DNA damage caused by UV radiation. When choosing a sunscreen, make sure it offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Factors Affecting Tanning

The amount of melanin we have isn’t the only factor that determines how our skin tans. Other factors such as skin type, age, and location also play a role. People with fairer skin have less melanin and are more prone to sunburns, while those with darker skin have more melanin and can withstand longer exposure to UV rays before burning. As we age, our skin produces less melanin, making us more susceptible to sun damage.

The Role of Melatonin

You may have heard of melatonin as a hormone that helps regulate our sleep cycle, but did you know it also plays a role in tanning? Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in our brain and helps control our skin’s response to UV radiation. During prolonged sun exposure, melatonin levels decrease, leading to an increase in melanin production. This process can take up to 48 hours, which is why you may notice your tan deepening a day or two after sun exposure.

Sunless Tanning

Not everyone wants to spend hours in the sun to achieve a golden glow. That’s where sunless tanning comes in. These products contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colorless sugar that reacts with amino acids on the surface of the skin to produce a temporary darkening effect. It’s essential to note that these products do not offer any protection against UV rays and should be used in conjunction with sunscreen. Nonetheless, spray tanning is a great way to get that fresh glow without any UV exposure.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, tanning is more than just a cosmetic change in our skin color. It’s a complex biological process involving melanin, UV rays, and our skin’s protective mechanisms. So next time you’re soaking up the sun, take a moment to appreciate the science behind your summer tan, and don’t forget to protect your skin with sunscreen!

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FAQS About Self Tanners

Posted on October 13, 2021 by admin

Self-tanners are not to be confused with indoor tanning lotions, sun tanning oils, moisturizers, or spray tan emulsions. Instead, self-tanners are cosmetic products that you can purchase at any local tanning salon or department store for your personal tanning needs.

They can be applied right in the comfort of your very own home, making them a popular go-to solution for a last minute tan. Sunless tanners and bronzers are the most common and frequently used self-tan products on the market, both of which come highly-recommended for their terrific qualities and outstanding results.

If you are thinking about trying self-tanner but you are hesitant because you are unsure what to expect, you are not alone. Continue reading to review some of the most frequently asked questions about self-tanning products and learn more about the process.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Self-Tanners

How Do Self-Tanners Work?

Sunless tanners and bronzers both achieve the same result, but in a different way. Sunless tanning products retain chemicals like DHA (dihydroxyacetone) that interact with the proteins and amino acids on the surface of your skin, which semi-permanently darken the pigment. They do not wash off right away, but eventually fade over time. Bronzers, on the other hand, are not semi-permanent, and wash off much like blush or tinted moisturizer.

Where Can I Buy Self-Tanners?

These products can be purchased at any local tanning salon, convenient store, beauty store, drug store, or department store. They can also be purchased online, but if you choose this avenue, be sure to go through a trusted vendor.

How Much Do Self-Tanning Products Cost?

There are several different brands and qualities of self-tanners, so the price for them will vary depending on the product you choose. Higher quality products will be more expensive, and larger quantities will cost more than smaller bottles. With so many on the market, there is a self-tanner for every budget.

Are There Alternatives to Using a Self-Tanner?

One the most effective and safe alternatives is automatic spray tanning. It is a more professional version of self-tanning, but applied using advanced technology, equipment, and professional-grade products. There are booths that automatically disperse the coloring agent, and there are booths that are operated by a spray tanning specialist. Spray tans are semi-permanent and tend to last 7 to 10 days, depending on the level of color and other similar factors.

Are you ready to get your Fall season complexion glow started with some affordable and effective sunless tanning near you? Visit Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to take full advantage of our luxury automatic spray tanning beds in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer tanning coupons and discounts, year-round!

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The Right Way to Remove Self Tanning Lotion

Posted on December 23, 2020 by admin

You will hear of several self-tanner removal methods suggested by all sorts of people, from your darling granny to your favorite YouTube celebrity. But if you are looking for the safest and gentlest option that is also effective, you may prefer one of the following methods explained below.

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Self-Tanner Removal Options

? Natural Organic Lemon Juice

Not only do lemons work wonders for removing self-tanning lotions, but they also smell nice and refreshing. This is one of the most popular methods because it is highly effective and inexpensive. You can do it right from home with just a few simple supplies. In under an hour, you can reverse any self-tan lotion errors you’ve made.

You will need lemons, cotton balls, and a small bowl. Start by squeezing the juice of a lemon into a bowl. Then soak a cotton ball in the lemon juice and begin dabbing your skin using gentle pressure. If you do not have fresh lemons, you can also use bottled lemon juice. This method is recommended for small surface areas and minor fixes.

⚪ Baking Soda

When you accidentally overdo it, baking soda can be the perfect remedy. This is great for large surface areas, such as hands, feet, underarms, abdomens, backs, and more. If your whole body is too tanned, you can use this method for a full-body exfoliation.

Simply mix equal parts of water and baking soda into a large plastic bowl. Combine the two until you achieve a general body scrub consistency. Then get into the shower and scrub your body thoroughly with a loofah or similar exfoliating cloth. Repeat the process as needed, or until you have reached a complexion you are comfortable with.

✨ Additional Methods to Consider

Aside from baking soda and lemons, there are a few other remedies you can try that are safe and effective. For large scale errors, try using baby oil. Just lather up, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then rinse clean with hot water. For any type of self-tanning removal need, you can also use white vinegar. Just apply it in the same way as baby oil for best results. Some even report that using whitening toothpaste can relieve a self-tanner mistake!

These methods are all easy, safe, and affordable. Not only do they cost a few dollars at most, they really work, regardless of skin type. If you have questions about using tanning products, talk to a local tanning salon professional for personalized recommendations and advice.

Where to Go for Top Quality Indoor Tanning in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 you are looking for high quality Broad Ripple tanning experience at the most competitive price around town. Our Indianapolis tanning salon has everything you need to achieve a beautiful, natural-looking glow at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of tanning services and products, including spray tanning and the most popular tingle tanning lotions on the market!

How to Perfect Your Spray Tan Timing

Posted on November 23, 2020 by admin

When you get a spray tan, you are investing in yourself. So naturally, you want to get the best out of the investment by making your spray tan look better and last longer. There are several ways to achieving the ultimate spray tan results, but timing is of the upmost importance.

Continue reading to learn exactly how you can get your spray tan timing down packed, and where to go for the best spray tan in Indianapolis.

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Why Spray Tan?

Spray tanning is a great alternative to getting a deeper, richer complexion without exposing your skin to UV-light. There are different kinds of spray tanning methods and options, and they are good for any skin tone or type. Talk to your spray tanning consultant prior to your session and discuss your complexion goals for best results. But before making your spray tanning appointment, be sure to get your timing right. This starts days before your appointment.

How to Time Your Spray Tan Appointment

You want to start thinking about your spray tan appointment before scheduling a session. Choose a day and time that works with your schedule. You won’t be able to shower for 4 to 6 hours after your tan, so be sure to work that into your scheduling plans. If you have an event planned, it is recommended to schedule your session 1 to 2 days before to allow it to set in.

Somewhere between 5 and 7 days before your appointment, you should put a more concentrated focus on skin care. The better the foundation, the better the spray tan sticks. During this time, exfoliate your skin, but not too much.

When your spray tan appointment in only 1 day away, you can proceed with shaving and unwanted body hair. You do not want to shave after a spray tan for at least 24 hours, plus spray tan adheres better to smooth skin.

Before and After Spray Tanning Care

Learn how to make a spray tan last longer with these industry-recommended before and after care tips!

Where to Get a Luxury Spray Tan in Indianapolis, Broad Ripple

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 for high-quality affordable spray tanning in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our neighborhood Indianapolis tanning salon is conveniently located right near Broad Ripple Village, and our tanning consultants are standing by to customize the perfect tanning course for you! We also offer a selection of tanning coupons and product specials! Call 317-257-8262 to request a free estimate or information, today.

Can I Apply Sunscreen Over My Spray Tan?

Posted on April 7, 2020 by admin

When you walk out of the tanning salon after getting a fresh, air-brushed spray tan, you feel great. You feel better than great! But then the anxiety kicks in, and all you can think about is being extra careful as to not harm your new spray tan. You avoid just about anything to prevent your color from fading, smearing, streaking, and simply disappearing too quickly! In fact, one of the most common misconceptions about spray tans has to do with using sunscreen. Many believe that sunscreen will take off or streak up their spray tans. But the truth is that sunscreen does the complete opposite!

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about using sunscreen after spray tanning.

Spray Tanning and Sunblock

Spray tanning is an easy, affordable, and fun alternative for indoor tanning. It avoids the need for UV-ray exposure, and you can get one at almost any local tanning salon at a reasonable price. So if you are considering spray tanning for the first time, you are in the right state of mind! And it is good-timing for you to learn that sunscreen is helpful for spray tans! In order to take care of a spray tan, you must take good care of your skin. And sunscreen is the first place to start in terms of skin care.

Your tan alone is not enough to protect your skin from burning. So using sunscreen is imperative when going out in the sun with a spray tan. Sunscreens contain moisturizers, which nourish your skin while you are in the sun. Nourished skin is healthy skin, and healthy skin holds tans much longer. And this is the goal when it comes to indoor tanning; right? To achieve an even, beautiful, lasting tan is every tanner’s number one priority.

The Right Way to Apply Sunscreen

It is important to always wear sunscreen when you are going to be outside in the sun, whether you have a spray tan or not. Experts recommend applying sunscreen 20 minutes prior to UV-ray exposure for optimal protection, and to reapply on a regular basis as-needed. Applying sunscreen before-hand allows your pores to fully absorb the moisturizers and protective agents in the lotion. This provides more all-around protection. Buy a wide variety of sunscreen at your local pharmacy store, drug store, convenient store, and tanning salon.

Where to Get a Luxury Spray Tan in Indianapolis

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 for high-quality affordable and fabulous spray tanning services and packages. Our neighborhood Indianapolis tanning salon is conveniently located right near Broad Ripple Village, and our tanning consultants are standing by to customize the perfect tanning course for you! Call 317-257-8262 to request a free estimate or information, today.

Top 5 Additives to Look for in a Tanning Lotion

Posted on March 4, 2020 by admin

If you are looking to enhance the quality of your sunless tanning sessions, you should consider adding something extra to your routine. Using a top quality tanning lotion can both improve and extend your tanning results, and even provide skin protection between sessions. When choosing a tanning lotion, be sure to do your research, and opt for a product that contains quality ingredients.

Continue reading to learn more about tanning lotions, including the top 5 additives you want to see on the label.

What’s in a Tanning Lotion?

Tanning lotions, like all skin products, come in a wide range of options. There are several brands, levels of quality, price points, formulas, and more, differentiating each tanning lotion from the next. For this reason, it is wise to educate yourself on the type of product you want. If you want a deeper, longer-lasting tan, consider a bronzer; if you want instant, glowing results, choose a tingle lotion. From there, you can set a price point and find the right product within your budget. When reading product labels, there are certain ingredients most tanning lotions will contain, such as methyl nicotinate, silicone, melanin, L-Tyrosine, natural oils, and even caffeine.

If you really want a better-quality tanning lotion, look for these types of additives:

➀ Anti-Aging

Products that advertise anti-aging qualities are those that contain certain ingredients that protect the skin from premature maturation and loss of elasticity, while also tightening wrinkles and refreshing skin complexion. Ingredients to look for include collagen, retinol, vitamin A, retinyl palmitate, tocopheryl acetate, matrixyl, Vitamin E, and trylagen. You can also purchase anti-aging drops, and add them to your current tanning lotion for a custom formula.

➁ DHA Booster

DHA is usually found in bronzers, and often times combined with other bronzers. They produce a darker bronzer color that is commonly referred to as an artificial-looking tan. You can purchase products that are DHA-FREE if you prefer a more natural-looking tan. You can buy a DHA booster, which comes in the form of a dropper, and simply add a few drops to your tanning lotion for customized boost.

➂ Moisturizers and Toners

A good tanning lotion will be formulated with ingredients that moisturize, hydrate, tone, and smooth the skin. Common ingredients used in tanning products for moisturization and hydration include avocado oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, hemp seed oil, and silicon. Ingredients for improved skin complexion, pigmentation, and tone include beta carotene, caffeine, vitamin A, retinyl palmitate, Vitamin E, Vitamin B-2 (riboflavin), and tyrosine.

➃ Maximizers

Your after-tanning complexion will be deeper and last longer with maximizers. Such ingredients and products “accelerate” the tanning process by speeding up the amount of time it takes to acquire a tan, as well as, enhancing the quality of the resulting complexion. Look for bronzers, tinglers, and body blushes, all of which can be added to your current tanning product for a boost, or use alone as your go-to tanning lotion.

➄ Scent

Everyone wants to smell nice, and your tanning lotion can do this for you! As an added bonus to your quality tanning lotion, choose one that has a great scent that does not overpower you. Natural scents, like eucalyptus and lavender, can make you feel like you’ve just had the ultimate spa experience, while other scents can leave you feeling invigorated and inspired, like peony, sweet pea, and peppermint.

Where to Find the Best Deals on Top Quality Tanning Lotion

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 you are looking for quality Indianapolis tanning products to achieve a beautiful natural looking glow affordable price. We offer a wide range of tanning lotions, services, and packages, including tanning discounts and selection of tanning beds. We also specialize in airbrush spray tanning services! Call 317-257-8262 to request a free estimate, today!