The most effective sunless or self-tan products containing the active ingredient DHA dihydroxyacetone. DHA is a colorless sugar that interacts with dead cells in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. As the sugar interacts with dead skin cells, skin color changes. This changes last for 3-7 days, and then you must reapply. Gels, lotions or sprays containing DHA are said to be the most reliable.

There are some very good products on the market, as well as tan accelerators that contain the amino acid tyrosine. Tyrosine stimulates and increases the formation of melanin, thereby accelerating the tanning process. There are currently no scientific evidence to support these assertions. Tanning pills contain canthaxanthin, a color additive used in some foods. Canthaxanthin is approved by the FDA for food use, but is not approved the use of it in the tanning agents.

This is because when used as a color additive very small quantities are needed, but when used as a tanning agent much larger amounts are needed. After canthaxanthin is eaten, which is deposited all over your body, including your skin, making an orange-brown. These types of tanning pills have been associated with side effects such as hepatitis and canthaxanthin retinopathy. Canthaxanthin retinopathy is a condition in which yellow deposits form in the retina of the eye. Bronzers are also very popular. Bronzers come in the form of powders or moisturizers. Create an instant tan that can be removed with soap and water. Tanning is really a makeup line, dye, since only the surface of the skin.