Never Been Sun Kissed: How To Get The Perfect Summer Tan Without The Damage

By Deborah L. Frazier

That sun-kissed look – it really is the perfect summertime accessory, isn’t it?

While we love the warm glow of the sun during the summer, we’re all aware of its extreme dangers. Sun exposure puts us at a higher risk of cellular damage, early wrinkling, age spots, actinic keratosis and skin cancer – including one of the most deadly – melanoma. With risks like these, it’s important to shun the sun.  However, that doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your summer glow.

Thanks to increased attention in the media about the short – and long-term effects of sun exposure, most people today are aware that sunless tanning is the way to go. At Dawn Career Institute’s New Beginnings Spa, we’ve seen an increase in clients asking for sunless tanning options.  Throughout the years, the sunless tanning industry has improved. The days of that orangey glow are long gone! New Beginnings Spa and spas across the country now offer a wide variety of realistic-looking and easy-to-apply options.

Sunless Tanning Options

Today, there are an abundance of sunless tanning options, from hand-applied lotions to spray-on tans. If you’re looking for a treatment from a bottle, we recommend the original St. Tropez hand-applied treatment for a bronzed, long-lasting glow. Many of our clients like this option because it can be applied in the privacy of their own home.

We also love Bronze Biologic Spray Tan for a premier cosmeceutical tan. Their self tanner doesn’t contain any toxic chemicals, dyes, perfumes, alcohol, or artificial colors. This all-natural treatment delivers great results that our clients love.

Interested in a gradual glow? Try Jane Iredale Tantasia. This self tanner auto bronzant is a moisturizing bronzant for the face and body. It gradually gives you a healthy look in three days for optimum control and customization.

Also, remember you can add more of a bronzed look with makeup.  Popular bronzers include our
So Bronze line by Jane Iredale in the shades of Moonglow, Sunbeam, and Rose Dawn.

Prepping YourSkin

The key to making your sunless tan look flawless is to prepare your skin appropriately before you apply the product. Oils, lotions, and perfumes can affect how the sunless tanner works. We advise our clients to exfoliate their skin with body wash or scrub before their application. This can remove lotions, oils, and dry skin.  Also, it is recommended to wax or shave 24 hours beforehand. This helps the sunless tanner soak into your
skin completely.

Wear dark, loose-fitting clothing and flip flops or sandals to allow your skin plenty of “breathing room” to dry properly. You wouldn’t want most of the tanner going on your clothes!

Concerns About Sunless Tanners?

Risks of sunless tanners are extremely insignificant compared to the dangers of tanning naturally.  However, it is important to know that sunless tanners contain the chemical DHA. The chemical is approved by the FDA for topical use because it doesn’t absorb into the skin deeper than the outer-most layer of dead skin cells.  However, DHA is dangerous if ingested or if it makes contact with your eyes.   Also, it is always advised to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients in a sunless tanner.

More Tips For Beautiful Summer Skin

Summer can be tough on skin, from chlorine in swimming pools to the blazing sun. Besides applying sunless tanner, there are many ways you can ensure your skin is glowing this summer.

Beauty often starts from the inside – what you put in your body, not on it!
We encourage our clients to stay hydrated throughout summer.
Beyond the obvious health benefits, it keeps your skin looking beautiful. Skin needs to stay moisturized, and it starts with drinking enough water.

Stock up on a body scrub, and use it several times a week. Use it on elbows and heels that can get especially dry from the sun during the summer. A great moisturizer is also a must. Always apply it right after your shower. We love Dermalogica Ultra Rich Cream or A Natural Difference cranberry or mango body lotions –they smell delicious!

Most importantly, use sunscreen and remember to reapply. You really can’t use enough. We recommend Dermalogica, A Natural Difference and Jane Iredale sunscreens at our spa.  Don’t forget about your lips – they can burn, too!

The summer sun is calling! With the right skincare routine and a great sunless tanner, you can achieve the perfect summer tan without the risk of skin cancer and sun damage.

So tell Mother Nature, thanks, but no thanks!

Want to learn more….

Dawn Career Institute can prepare you for a career in the beauty and wellness industry! Students in DCI’s Esthetician program can learn how to perform facials, waxing treatments, microdermabrasion, makeup application and many more skin care procedures. The New Beginnings Spa at Dawn Career Institute also offers students an excellent opportunity to gain professional experience working with real clients.

Dawn Career Institute is located in Wilmington, Del., and offers convenient day and evening classes, along with helpful job placement assistance to all students. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. It’s time to begin your education to become a professional in the beauty and wellness industry!

Learn more today at www.VisitDCI.com or call 1-800-495-8260.

Dawn Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
For useful consumer information, please visit us at www.dawncareerinstitute.edu/consumerinfo.