The danger of exposure to the ultraviolet lights of the sun and tanning beds has been well established. The only safe tan is a fake tan. Using a sunless suntan lotion is the best way to get the color you want without the risks to your health. Skin cancer and premature aging of the skin are the most common health dangers resulting from exposure to UV rays.

Sunless tanning products are available in a wide range of formulas. You will find them for every skin type and color. It's important to choose a product that is made for your skin type for the best results. Using a darker formula on very light skin can result in skin discoloration and an orange hue to the skin. Many products are marked for light or fair skin.

Using Sunless Suntan Lotion at Home

A variety of self tanning products are available for home use, including sprays, crèème and lotions. Even application is essential for even color. Colored lotions are available that allow you to see exactly where you have applied the product. You will be able to see any missed areas. As the lotion soaks in, the color fades. Apply to thicker areas of the skin, such as the elbows, knees and ankles last to avoid darker color in these areas. Wear plastic gloves during application to keep the palms of the hands from getting stained.

Prepare your skin before applying the tanner. Shower and use an exfoliating product to remove dead skin cells. This will help with even absorption. If you take time to prepare your skin, you will get better coverage and your color will last longer. Some self tanners come in a complete kit with the lotion and an exfoliating product.

Sunless tan products take up to an hour to work. For an all over tan without tan lines, apply the product in the nude. It can take up to an hour for the product to soak in and begin to work. The effect will last approximately one week. To maintain your color, re apply the lotion every three to five days. You can make this part of your regular beauty routine, or just use them for vacation or a special occasion.

Suntan Lotion in a Booth

If you want a great safe tan, but don't want the hassle of applying the lotions, consider visiting a salon for a spray on tan. These use products like Mystic Tan or Sunshower. They are applied by spray nozzles, while you stand in a booth. The process only takes a few minutes, but the full effect won't be seen for several hours. Most solutions have a bronzer that will give some immediate results. This initial color will darken throughout the day.

Your spray on tan will last between one and two weeks, depending on your skin. Shaving, chlorine and sitting in the sand will make your skin exfoliate faster and your tan will fade quicker. An extending moisturizer can help extend your tan. You can use a home tanning product in between booth sessions to keep your color.