Important Tips for Using Self-Tanning Lotion

Self-tanning lotions, or “self-tanners”, are impacting the tanning market in a major way. With all the recent innovative advancements made in formulating sunless tanning products, they are more popular than ever; and as safe and convenient alternatives to sun tanning, it is no surprise! However, if you are new to using self-tanning products, it is wise to start with some helpful tips rather than an impromptu approach!

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about using self-tanning lotion at home.

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Preparation is Key

Regardless of your age, skin tone, or skin type, it is necessary to get your skin ready prior to applying any sunless tanning lotion. Every tan looks better and lasts longer when you prepare your skin properly. Do this by following a few rules:

Do not shave or wax within 8 hours of application;
Do not use self-tanners on irritated or infected skin;
Do not apply any oils, moisturizers, or lotions to skin.

Avoid Over Applying and Blending

Applying too much product can leave your skin looking unnatural, too dark, or streaky. To avoid this, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Try to only work with a quarter size amount at a time and stick to one coat to prevent using too much self-tanner.

In addition to over-applying, you want to avoid over-blending too. It may seem like the more you spread the product around, the more even it will result; however, spreading the lotion around too much or too long can actually cause more streaking and unevenness. Likewise, you do not want to rub the product into your skin; instead, use light, gentle, and even pressure.

Mind Your Hands and Feet

Never apply self-tanner directly onto your feet and hands; at least not until you are a seasoned pro. This can result in very streaky and uneven color. Instead, using only the excess from the rest of your application process, gradually apply product to your feet and hands. For instance, after you cover your legs, use the residual product on your hands to cover your feet.

Take Care of Your Tan

After you have successfully applied your self-tanning lotion, you are now in charge of taking good care of it in the following weeks. Allow the self-tanner to sit for at least 30 minutes before getting dressed. Wait to take a shower for at least 8 to 10 hours for best results. In fact, avoid all types of moisture for this long (i.e. water, sweat, eye drops, showers, baths, pools, etc.). In the following days, be sure you keep your skin moisturized on a daily basis, and drink plenty of water.

A quality self-tanning product, combined with these tips, will give you a well-balanced, beautiful, long-lasting tan!

Where to Get Quality Tanning Products

Broad Ripple Tans

Broad Ripple Tans 317-257-8262

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to buy professional-grade tanning products at neighborhood prices in Indianapolis! Our tanning salon offers a wide selection of top-quality tanning lotions, moisturizers, and skin care products, all at the most competitive prices in town. Be sure to stop in for air brush spray tanning services, or relax in one of our luxury tanning beds!

Can I Still Get a Tan With Sunscreen On?

Sunscreen is an imperative part of outdoor, summertime activity. Our skin requires a specific degree of defense against harmful UV rays that come from the sun. Without sun protection, skin is susceptible to burning, rash, irritation, reddening, sensitivity, discoloration, moral formation, freckles, and more. Other than wearing protective clothing that covers the skin or carrying around a large shade umbrella, your best option is to wear a high-quality sunscreen.

It is common for people to opt out of using sun protection lotion because they want to get a tan, however this is not worth the risk; especially because skin still tends even with sunscreen on. To understand why, continue reading to learn more about sunscreen and what it does.

Indianapolis Tanning Salon 317-257-8262

Indianapolis Tanning Salon 317-257-8262

How Sunscreen Works

Sun protection lotion, or sunscreen, comes in many varieties. However, all types are formulated with two main constituents: an emulsion and a primary active ingredient. There usually several active ingredients in a sunscreen product.

The active ingredient is usually the constituent that actually protects the skin from UV sunrays. These come in two forms as well; the two main categories of active ingredients in sun protection lotion are ultraviolet absorbers and ultraviolet reflectors. Absorbers are chemicals (also known as organic because they contain carbon atoms) that soak up UV radiation from the sun upon contact with skin by converting it to lower levels of heat. Reflectors do just the opposite. Rather than absorbing the UV radiation, they reflect sun rays. They are mostly formulated using common oxides, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which work well to scatter ultraviolet rays.

Emulsions are the constituents that hold the active ingredients and helps bind them to skin. These are often in the form of lotions, creams, milks, ointments, foams, or gels. The basis for most emulsions are oil and water, and then with the addition of other elements, they are customized for the market. Emulsions are important for sunscreens because they increase shelf life since they were preservatives, but they are also the reason behind the lovely fragrances and textures sunscreens offer.

Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens and SPF

Some sunscreens are targeted more for UVA radiation, while others are targeted more towards UVB radiation. Broad-spectrum sunscreen is often recommended as being the best product for skin protection in the sun. These products are specially designed to protect against both UVB and UVA radiation. “SPF” stands for” sun protection factor”, and is measured numerically. The higher the SPF value, the less son will get through to your skin.

A sunscreen with a 30 SPF means that one-thirtieth (or 3.3%) of UV rays actually passes through the skin. Keep in mind that 30 SPF and 50 SPF is only a 1.3% difference in protection. As an example, if your skin burns in the sun after 10 minutes of protection on it, and SPF 30 sunscreen will protect your skin from burning in the sun for 300 minutes (or 30 times longer). So whether your skin is prone to burning in the sun or not, it is better to use a high-value for best results.

Visit Our Broad Ripple Tanning Salon!

Broad Ripple Tanning 317-257-8262

Broad Ripple Tanning 317-257-8262

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 for high-quality affordable indoor tanning and air brush spray tanning services. 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.

How to Create a Base Tan for the Summer

With summer being just weeks away, now is the perfect time to start preparing your skin for some safe, fun-in-the-sun. Establishing a base tan is a great way to avoid sun-damaged skin like sun burns and sun spots. Continue reading to learn how you can give yourself a foundation of color to start the summer off right!

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Indianapolis Tanning Salon 317-257-8262


There are two routes you can take to jump-start your summer tan. The first method is sunless tanning, which is the use of self-tanning products to enhance the pigment of skin; and the second method is to visit a local Indianapolis tanning salon to utilize their services. The route you choose will mostly depend on your budget, availability, and personal preference. However, there is a critical step to take before you begin tanning.

Skin Care and Moisturizing

It is important for your skin to be in a healthy condition before you tan. Healthy skin tans better, retains color longer, and looks better. To get your skin to a good state, you must condition and hydrate. Create a moisturizing routine using quality moisturizers twice a day for one week. Be sure to stick to the route to get the best results. You should notice a subtle change in your skin after just a few days. This routine is something you want to continue after tanning, and throughout the summer.

In addition to your skin care regime, be sure you are working on your body’s hydration. Drinking plenty of water every day is a highly effective method to achieve a healthy complexion, including soft, supple skin. If you have trouble drinking water, try Crystal Light® or Miso® water additives; they are low calorie and sugar-free, and enhance the flavor of water. You can also make pitchers of caffeine-free herbal teas, like Chamomile, peppermint, lemon ginger, and green tea.

During your one week skin care preparation, it is important to also focus on eating healthy foods. Junk foods, or foods high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and sugar, can greatly affect skin in a short amount of time. Furthermore, a healthier diet will make you feel better, which helps keep you active and in the sun!

Tanning

Once your skin gets an expedited overhaul in moisturizing and hydration, you are ready to start building your tan. You can choose to use self-tanning lotions and bronzers, which are available at any local beauty or convenient store. You can also purchase them online. This is not recommended for those who are unfamiliar or inexperienced with self-tanning lotions. Not only is there a risk of developing an uneven or streaky tan, there could be skin irritation side effects and more.

Your other option, which happens to be the most popular, is to visit a professional Indianapolis tanning salon. There, you can choose among a wide variety of tanning beds, packages, lotions, and more. If you are uncomfortable with using a tanning bed, you can opt for their sunless tanning services instead. Air brush spray tanning is safe, easy, and helps build color gradually.

If you follow these tips, you are sure to build a glowing base tan to build on by the time summer is here. Be sure to choose a quality tanning salon who can help you customize a safe tanning program that’s perfect for your skin type and meets your tanning goals.

Visit Broad Ripple Tans!

Sunless Tanning Coupon

Sunless Tanning Coupons 317-257-8262

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to hear our monthly tanning bed specials! We are a luxury tanning salon located in Indianapolis, just around the corner from Broad Ripple Village. We offer a wide range of tanning services, as well as, quality tanning products and beds. Call 317-257-8262 and ask about our tanning salon services, prices, and availability, today.

Common Tanning Lotion Terms You Should Know

Are you asking yourself questions about bronzers, tinglers, moisturizers, and more? If so, you could use a fast-track lesson on some common tanning lotion product terminology!

From accelerators and maximizers, to hemp seed oils, caffeine, silicone, and more, understanding some facts and meanings of these common terms will help you choose the right product for your skin type and tanning goals! Continue reading to review a brief lexicon of some common tanning lotion terminology!

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Indianapolis Tanning Salon 317-257-8262


Accelerators – Accelerators are level one products that are perfect for beginners. They simply “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.

Anti-Aging – Products that advertise anti-aging qualities are those that contain certain properties and vitamins that protect the skin from premature maturation and loss of elasticity.

Avocado Butter – Avocado butter is used universally in the skin care industry as a natural moisturizer. In tanning lotions, it provides protection from skin dehydration.

Beta Carotene – Beta carotene is a red/orange pigment carotenoid and an antioxidant. The skin converts beta carotene into Vitamin A, which is an essential vitamin. Also known as retinol, Vitamin A helps support healthy pigment coloration.

Body Blush – Body blush is a unique product in that it works similarly to a tingler, but doesn’t generate the hot, tingling sensation. This is recommended for those who are experienced tanners who want to use a tingler, but have sensitive skin.

Bronzers – Bronzers are ingredients that contain self-tanners. Commonly found in both accelerators and maximizers, bronzers are sought out for rapid results and deeper, darker pigment coloration.

Caffeine – Caffeine-containing tanning products decrease puffiness and rejuvenates the skin. Just like caffeine wakes you up in the morning, it can also be added to tanning lotions to wake up your skin and make it glow.

Cocoa Butter – Just like avocado butter, cocoa butter is added to many tanning lotions as a moisturizer and skin hydrator. Cocoa butter is often admired for its sugary smell and skin restoring qualities.

Collagen – Collagen is a protein that gives our skin strength and elasticity, and replaces dead skin cells. It is commonly added to tanning products to improve skin elasticity and help prevents wrinkles.

DHA – DHA is usually found in bronzers, and often times combined with other bronzers. They produce a darker bronzer color that is commonly described as an “artificial-looking tan.” You can purchase products that are DHA-FREE if you prefer a more natural-looking tan.

Hemp Seed Oil – Hemp seed oil is a rich tanning lotion ingredient that helps nourish and moisturize the skin. It is found in many tanning products because it is a highly effective ingredient.

Level I, II & III – Tanning lotions are generally categorized as level one, level two, or level three products. Level one products are designed for beginners, or individuals with sensitive or fair skin tones. Level three products are for more experienced tanners, as well as, individuals with darker skins tones or skin that does not easily burn or aggravate.

Matrixyl – Matrixyl is a trademarked polypeptide (palmitoyl-pentapeptide 3) added to tanning lotions to stimulate long-term collagen production in the skin. It helps to repair skin damage and premature aging.

Maximizers – Maximizers are found in level II tanning products for the purpose of enhancing skin tone and color product. They are recommended for those who have a solid and healthy base tan. However, they usually contain few moisturizers, so it is wise to add one if you use maximizer tanning lotions.

Retinyl Palmitate – Retinyl Palmitate is a form of Vitamin A that is composed of palmitic acid and retinol. Just like Beta Carotene, it stimulates and maintains pigment coloration.

Shea Butter – Shea butter is added to tanning lotions for the same purpose as avocado and cocoa butter. It is a natural moisturizer that aids in skin nourishment, hydration, and texture.

Silicon – Silicon is a mineral that is commonly added to tanning lotions for skin conditioning purposes. It helps revitalize skin and improve texture.

Tinglers – Tinglers are level III tanning lotions that contain certain ingredients to improve skin circulation and increase UV-ray absorption. These ingredients increase blood flow, which causes the skin to redden and prickle. As a result, skin tans faster; however, these sensations can be quite uncomfortable for some people. Tinglers are not for everyone!

Tocopheryl – Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E, which is commonly added to tanning lotions for its skin revitalizing and tightening properties. It helps create younger, tighter, healthier skin texture.

Trylagen – Some tanning lotions contain Trylagen, which is an ingredient that boost collagen and elastin production in the skin. This can help with aging and reducing the look of aged skin.

Tyrosine – Tyrosine is an amino-acid derivative that stimulates melanin production in the skin. As a bonus, it also stimulates the production of mood-influencing chemicals like serotonin and dopamine.

Vitamin B-2 – Also known as Riboflavin, Vitamin B-2 is an important compound that supports healthy skin. It is commonly found in tanning accelerators.

Vitamin D – This is an essential vitamin that our bodies need for survival. However, our bodies cannot produce with being exposed to UV light. It is added to tanning lotions to increase the amount of Vitamin D you get from tanning.

Vitamin ESee “Tocopheryl Acetate.” Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient that works as an antioxidant. It fights off free radicals to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It is found in tanning lotions because it helps prevents sun damage and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

Unipertan – Unipertan is a bioactive complex that is a combination of Tyrosine, Collagen and Vitamin B-2. Tanning products often contain Unipertan because it helps boost melanin production and natural skin bronzers.

Visit Our Broad Ripple Tanning Salon!

Broad Ripple Tans

Broad Ripple Tans 317-257-8262

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 for high-quality affordable indoor tanning and air brush spray tanning services. 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.

Recommended Skin Care Routines For Oily, Dry, and Combination Skin

Indoor Tanning and Skin Care Products 317-257-8262

Indoor Tanning and Skin Care Products 317-257-8262

You are probably aware that there are various skin types, and hopefully you have figured out which skin type you have. This understanding is an integral part of proper skin care. If you are unsure which skin type you are, simply read our blog entitled, “Which Skin Type are You?” to learn how to test your skin. Once you administer your test, you will be more up-to-date with your particular skin qualities. As a reminder from that blog, the three primary skin types are oily, dry, and combination skin. Each skin type has unique attributes, so they require a separate approach to skin care. A person with oily skin would not want to use the same skin care regime as a person with dry skin, and vice versa. So continue reading to learn some incredible skin care tips for each type, and then get started on a journey towards healthier, more luminous skin!

Oily Skin

You likely have oily skin if your face begins to produce new skin oils within a few hours after washing your face in the morning. Although oily skin is more resistant to sun exposure, it is more prone to blemishes and acne outbreaks. However, it is easy to care for since moisture loss is not your problem. However, moisturized skin does not have to be shiny or excessively oily. Here are some tips for cleansing and caring for your oily skin:

☺ Avoid oil-based skin care products and heavy makeup usage.

☺ Use a gentle cleanser in the morning and evening, everyday.

☺ Use an alcohol-free, salicylic acid medicated face toner after every wash. Try Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Cleansing Pads®.

☺ Use a daily moisturizer that is oil-free and at least 30 SPF. Try Neutrogena Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen SPF 35®.

Dry Skin

If your skin feels dry just a few hours after applying moisturizer, or shows visible signs of flaking, you likely have dry skin. Fortunately, dry skin is simple to treat so long as you have some dedication. Here is what you should do if you have dry skin:

☺ Use a gentle face cleanser. Avoid maximum strength and abrasive formulas. Instead, opt for a soft cream or foam cleanser.

☺ Only wash your face with cleanser at night before bedtime. In the morning, just rinse with clean water to retain more moisture in your skin.

☺ Apply a hyaluronic acid product before you apply your moisturizer. It is essentially a booster to your moisturizer.

☺ Use moisturizers that contain phospholipids, cholesterol, and essential fatty acids.

☺ For anti-aging purposes, use a quality retinol product in the morning and evening, like Retinol Pro Advanced Regenerating Formula®. This can irritate sensitive skin, so be cautious when using.

☺ Always test new products cautiously to see if they dry out or irritate your skin. Immediately discontinue use if they cause more dryness or irritation.

Combination Skin

If you have combination skin, you can take comfort in knowing that it can be the easiest skin type to care for. Combination skin care is all about finding the happy mediums with your skin care products, including makeup. Regular cleansing, spot treatment for acne or blemishes, and proper moisturizing is all it takes to maintain healthy combination skin. Here are some more tips to keep in mind:

☺ Use a gentle cleanser in the morning and evening.

☺ Try not to wear makeup for many hours. Wash off makeup as soon as possible. Never sleep in makeup!

☺ Use an alcohol-free, salicylic acid medicated face toner 3 times per week. Try Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Cleansing Pads®.

☺ Spot treat acne breakouts with a gentle acne cream like Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment®.

☺ Use an oil-free moisturizer with SPF 30 in the morning, and a thicker moisturizer cream in the evening.

Indianapolis Tanning Products

Broad Ripple Tans

Broad Ripple Tans 317-257-8262

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to buy professional-grade tanning products at neighborhood prices in Indianapolis! Our tanning salon offers a wide selection of top-quality tanning lotions, moisturizers, and skin care products, all at the most competitive prices in town. Be sure to stop in for air brush spray tanning services, or relax in one of our luxury tanning beds!

Which Skin Type Are You?

Indianapolis Tanning Salon 317-257-8262

Indianapolis Tanning Salon 317-257-8262

If you want to give your skin the best possible care, it is important that you know which skin type you have. Skin types are known to change as we get older, so it is common for someone to assume they have the same skin type they did as an adolescent. If it has been years since you have really reexamined the quality and condition of your skin, your skin care routine and anti-aging plan may not match your true skin type any more. Continue reading to learn how to identify your true skin type.

3 Primary Skin Types

There are infinite variations of skin types, but the average person fits into one of three primary categories: oily, dry, and combination skin. Within these 3 primary skin types, there are various levels of being affected. It is possible to add a fourth category for sensitive skin, however, sensitive skin is really just other versions of dry or combination skin. If you are unsure which skin type best matches your skin, just look for the common signs of each.

Oily Skin – It is common for skin to feel oily by the end of the day. However, if you can feel oil on your facial skin by morning or mid-day, your skin type is likely oily. Oily skin is more prone to acne, and can cause an undesirable sheen. On the other hand, it generally offers better sun protection. With proper skin care products and practices, oily skin can be easily managed, and even reduced.

Dry Skin – Dry skin is evident by signs of flaking, cracking, redness, irritation, and heightened sensitivity. If you skin experiences these symptoms when you use products on it, you likely have dry skin.

Combination Skin – Combination skin types are simply those that exhibit both oily and dry symptoms. Certain parts of the skin can be oily, while other areas are dry. Some areas can be more sensitive than others, and so forth. If your skin fits this description, you likely have combination skin.

How to Find Your True Skin Type

To truly identify your skin type, you must first stop using any harmful products for several weeks. This includes alcohol-based products or products that use menthol, peppermint, eucalyptus, citrus oils, citrus juices, lavender, witch hazel, and other harsh ingredients. Also cut out fragrances and scented products, thick moisturizers (unless you have severely dry skin), abrasives, harsh cleansers, stiff-bristled brushes, and essential oils. After 2 or 3 weeks, your true skin type will begin to show. Now you are ready to do the test and find out once and for all which skin type is yours.

Here’s what to do:

Wash your face with warm water and a mild cleanser.
Pat completely dry.
Apply a gentle, skin-replenishing toner with antioxidants and other essential minerals.
Wait 30 minutes and then look in the mirror and examine your skin.

If your skin is showing signs of oil and shine, you have oily skin.
If your skin is showing signs of dryness and feels tight, you have dry skin.
If your skin is oily in some places and dry in others, you have combination skin.

Tune in soon for an upcoming blog about recommended skin care routines for oily, dry, and combination skin!

Looking for Great Skin Care Products to Enhance Your Tan?

Broad Ripple Tans

Broad Ripple Tans 317-257-8262

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 you are looking for in Indianapolis tanning salon that has everything you need to achieve a beautiful natural looking glow affordable price. We offer a wide range of tanning products, 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!