Beach, sun, perfect tan. It’s all part of the Australian culture. But as amazing as it is, getting this bronze tan by spending hours in the sun comes with some consequences. Premature skin aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. Thankfully, there’s a way to get that sun-kissed glow without exposing yourself to harmful UV rays. You can use tanning lotions. And not just any, but safe, organic lotions without toxic chemicals and animal-derived ingredients. As the demand for cruelty-free and eco-friendly products continues to grow, it's important to understand what goes into vegan tanning lotions, how you can use them effectively, and the key considerations when choosing one.
Are There Natural Self-Tanners?
Yes, there are. Sunless tanning lotions or fake self-tan sprays that are made from plant extracts and contain no harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances are considered natural or vegan products. The vegan tanning lotion is certified organic and is often suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. To help you understand the ingredients listed on the labels, we’ll go through the most common ones:
- DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): DHA is the active ingredient in most self-tanning products, whether vegan or not. It's derived from sugar and interacts with the amino acids in your skin to create a temporary tan. In natural self tanner lotions, DHA is typically sourced from plant-based glycerine, making it cruelty-free.
- Natural Oils: A mineral sun tanning lotion often contains nourishing oils like coconut, argan, or olive oil, which provide hydration and help maintain a smooth, even tan. These oils are ethically sourced and do not involve animal testing.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This vegan-friendly ingredient aids in skin hydration and can be found in some tanning lotions to help prevent dryness and flakiness.
- Botanical Extracts: Many vegan tanning lotions incorporate extracts from botanical sources, such as aloe vera, green tea, or chamomile. These extracts offer various skincare benefits, including soothing and rejuvenating the skin.
- Natural Fragrances: Vegan tanning lotions often use essential oils and plant-based fragrances to create pleasant scents without the need for synthetic or animal-derived fragrances.
- Preservatives: To maintain the product's shelf life, natural and eco-friendly preservatives like vitamin E or rosemary extract are used instead of synthetic chemicals.
How to Use the Organic Tan Lotion?
Now that you know you have made a safe choice, it's time to get that radiant, bronze look. Applying the lotion correctly is essential to achieve an even, streak-free tan. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Exfoliate: Begin by exfoliating your skin in the shower. Use a gentle, vegan scrub to remove dead skin cells, ensuring a smooth canvas for the tanning lotion.
- Moisturize: Apply a vegan moisturizer to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. This helps prevent the tanning lotion from clinging to dry patches, resulting in a more even tan.
- Wear Gloves or Use a Mitt: To avoid staining your hands, wear disposable gloves or use a tanning mitt. Dispense a small amount of vegan tanning lotion onto the mitt or your hands (if you don't use gloves).
- Apply Evenly: Start applying the lotion in circular motions, working from your ankles upward. Pay close attention to blending the product at joints and areas prone to uneven coloration.
- Face and Hands: Apply sparingly to your face and hands, as these areas tend to absorb more colour. To avoid an unnatural tan on your face, mix the tanning lotion with your regular facial moisturizer before applying.
- Allow to Dry: Wait for the tanning lotion to dry completely before putting on clothing or coming into contact with fabrics. This usually takes 10-15 minutes, but it's best to follow the product's specific instructions.
- Wash Hands: After application, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent staining.
- Avoid Water and Sweating: Refrain from swimming, sweating, or any activity that might cause you to perspire for at least 6-8 hours after application. This allows the tan to develop without interference.
- Rinse Off: Once the recommended development time has passed, take a quick shower to rinse off any excess lotion. Avoid using harsh soaps or exfoliating scrubs during this shower.
- Maintenance: To prolong your tan, moisturize daily with a vegan lotion. This will help maintain a healthy, hydrated skin surface and extend the life of your tan.
Key Considerations
Before using any tanning product, including vegan tanning lotions, perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for potential allergies or irritation. Vegan tanning lotions come in various shades, so choose one that suits your desired level of tan. Lighter options provide a subtle glow, while darker shades offer a deeper tan. Some products offer a gradual tan over several applications, while others provide instant color. Choose the one that aligns with your preferences and needs.
What to Look For?
Organic and Cruelty-Free Certification: Look for vegan tanning lotions that have organic and cruelty-free certifications. These labels ensure that the product is not only vegan but also environmentally friendly and free from animal testing.
Stain Resistance: Ensure the moisturiser or spray you choose is formulated to be stain-resistant on fabrics and does not leave marks on clothing or bedding.
Skin Type: Consider your skin type. Some products are formulated for specific skin types, such as sensitive or oily skin.
Longevity: Most of them typically offer a temporary tan that lasts for several days. Be prepared for the need to reapply the product regularly to maintain your tan.
Sun Protection: An organic self tanner does not provide any sun protection. Always use sunscreen when spending time in the sun to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Storage and Shelf Life: Check the product's recommended storage conditions and shelf life to ensure you get the best results and avoid using expired tanning lotion.
Price and Brand Reputation: Compare prices and research the reputation of the brand to ensure you are getting a quality vegan tanning lotion that meets your expectations.
Final Word
Natural tanning lotions offer an ethical and eco-friendly alternative to traditional tanning products, allowing you to achieve a beautiful tan without compromising your values. Remember that proper preparation, application, and maintenance are crucial for achieving the best results, so take your time and enjoy your glam tan.
