Tanning Lotion Functions

There are many reasons why tanning is popular in this culture and that in itself is the reason why the tanning lotion market is so overcrowded with a huge selection of products to suite any situation. However, the terminology is sometimes ambiguous when it comes to the best indoor tanning lotion and suntan lotion. Easy to be confused and the definition of the terms are not interchangeable. Suntan lotion is also known as sunscreen or sun block which are products designed specifically to protect the user from harmful UV radiation. Tanning lotions are quite the opposite in that they intensify the effects of exposure to UV rays and accelerate the results of the exposure. But they also serve many other functions to assist the tanner during their quest for the perfect tint.

The most obvious is the accelerant function that tanning lotions provide. It helps the user attain the tan faster than they would otherwise under normal conditions. Different products attempt to provide this value to their customers through a variety of strategies and, in all honesty, most are based on theories of how the skin works rather than an exact science. One example is in potions like tingle lotion do things to irate the skin which causes an increase in blood flow to the surface of the skin in hopes that the extra oxygen and nutrients carried by the blood helps in melanin production.

Most products rely on varieties of tanning oils which contains all kinds of minerals that are suppose to boost the skin’s melanin production. Some even contain melanin in the formula. These minerals are what separate indoor tanning lotion from outdoor lotions because indoor lotions are careful not to use minerals that can cause erosion to the acrylic in tanning beds. The important thing to remember is that most products do make the skin more sensitive so inexperienced users should avoid advanced products if they do not know how their skin will react.

One of the most important functions of tanning lotion is the moisturizing effect it provides. This keeps the skin hydrated which is known to help in the production of melanin. The very process of creating melanin as a result of exposure to UV rays can very quickly dry up the skin and we all know how unattractive the long term effects of excessively dried skin can be. The moisturizing factor is probably the single most effective function that tanning lotions offer. It is very important for normal skin under regular, day-to-day conditions be properly moisturized. It is even more important if you are intentionally going to bake your skin under dangerous like.

Speaking of dangerous, one feature that only some tanning lotions offer is protection against radiation damage. New formulas are being developed to be better at protecting against damage but it is still something that all tanners should always keep in mind. The best advice is to keep tanning sessions light and in short spans of time. Prolonged exposure can cause severe health problems such as cancer of the skin.

Another, much less vital but much appreciated function is the scent that manufacturers are adding to their products. Some cheap indoor tanning lotions will have unpleasant chemical odors, most brands have some kind of perfume to mask that scent and leave the user with nice smelling skin. But take that to another level and we have products that apply the science of aromatherapy and match smells that induce calmness and relaxation or invigoration to the person wearing the lotion. Since many tanners find tanning sessions to be a relaxing activity, the aromatherapy will definitely be appreciated by many.

Of all these functions most tanning lotions also add a little fake tint to the wearer as well. This is because the color of the lotion absorbs and redistributes the UV rays so the person has a better shot at an even tan. Roll all these advantages up and now tanning lotions are more than just goo.