If you have been in the market for tanning lotion recently and it has been awhile since you have made such a purchase, you might be feeling a bit confused by all of your options. More specifically, you may be wondering about all of this "step" talk. When you read the product descriptions for various products, you may have noticed that they are sometimes listed as either being Step 1, Step 2, or Step 3. Understanding these different steps and what they represent is important when it comes to building the perfect tan. With this simple guide, you can finally make sense out of these steps and climb your way to the perfect tan!

Step 1 Tanning Lotions

Step 1 tanning lotions are those lotions that are designed to help you build your tan. In order to obtain a deep, dark tan, you have to establish a base tan. Step 1 tanning lotions will help you make this happen. By stimulating your skin to produce melanin and by providing it with much needed moisture, Step 1 tanning lotions are perfect for tanners with light skin and for those working on developing a base tan. In order to get the full effects of these tanning products, it is generally best to avoid bathing for two hours after your tanning session is complete.

While Step 1 tanning lotions will help you improve the results of your tanning experience, they are only effective up to a certain point. After this point is reached, it is time to up the ante to Step 2 lotions.

Step 2 Tanning Lotions

Step 2 lotions are designed to deeply penetrate your skin with minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients that help create a deep tan. In addition to providing your skin with nourishment, Step 2 lotions are also designed to stimulate your skin. As such, these tanning lotions are further broken down according to their "tingle" factor. Some of these lotions are made from special formulas that do not tingle. These formulas are best for those with sensitive skin. In addition, it is better to start off with a Step 2 tanning lotion with a lower tingle factor and then work your way up after you have gained more tanning experience.

Step 3 Tanning Lotions

Step 3 lotions are designed to protect your skin and provide it with an extra layer of moisture. This lotion is meant to help replace the moisture that you have lost through tanning. In this way, your skin stays healthy and your tan lasts longer.