Spray tan: what you need to know to have a perfect complexion all year round!

What it is and how it works

How to eliminate the winter pallor in a few minutes and show off a color that is the envy of those who have just returned from the Caribbean? With spray tanning, a very popular treatment even among Hollywood divas, which allows, without exposure to ultraviolet rays, to have an intense color in a few seconds, through the nebulization of a DHA-based cosmetic (acronym in code of dihydroxyacetone), a natural extract based on sugar cane, capable of darkening the keratin present on the most superficial layer of the skin.

It must be said immediately that spray tanning is not a melanin stimulant, it does not protect us from the sun's rays and therefore does not replace UVA and UVB protective creams; it simply "tans" us up at a low price (we are in the order of about 20 euros), which all in all is not bad, especially if we have a special occasion and want to show off a last minute tan.

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How long does it last?

The color resulting from the spray tan lasts 4 or 5 days and then fades completely homogeneously with the continuous replacement of the surface layer of the skin. Being a non-toxic and hypoallergenic treatment, you can still repeat it twice a week, without risk of skin damage. As it does not penetrate deeply, DHA is well tolerated by the skin and even the most sensitive ones or those with psoriasis and vitiligo problems usually do not have abnormal reactions.

However, it is always important to rely on safe and accredited centers, not only to be sure that poor products or products containing chemical components are not used, but also to avoid the risk of finding yourself stained or with an orange - yellowish color!

A few simple rules

Although it is a safe, non-harmful and fast treatment, even those who undergo spray tanning must follow some rules so that the effect is the desired one and does not incur any unpleasant surprises.

Before the session you must remember to:
- Exfoliate the skin first to prolong the effect and obtain a more homogeneous result;
- Do not put creams, oils or perfumes in the two / three hours prior to application;
- Wear comfortable clothing to avoid excessive rubbing with clothing.

After you will have to instead:
- Wait at least 5-6 hours before taking a shower or sporting activity;
- Moisturize the skin after a shower and in the following days to keep the complexion at its best;
- In case of sun exposure after the session, protect the skin with adequate sun protection;
- In case of color transfer on the inside of the clothes, washing at 30 ° is sufficient to eliminate all traces;
- Do not apply any creamy or oily product on the skin until the first wash.

What to eat to stimulate the tan: the most suitable foods!

Remember that even the right diet can help tan. In fact, there are foods that, more than others, help to stimulate the tan, preparing the skin for the sun. Here is a list of the most suitable foods to prepare adequately for sun exposure, the first step to obtain a perfect and lasting tan.

See also: What to eat for tanning: all foods that stimulate tanning

© iStock What to eat to get a tan: all foods that stimulate a tan!

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