A self-tanner might be the answer if you’re craving a summer tan but are worried about damaging ultraviolet rays. Consumer Reports tested six popular self-tanning sprays and lotions ranging from about $8 to $35 to see whether they offer a golden glow.
To test the products, a panel of volunteers wore patches so that the skin underneath could be used as a reference. Then tanning sprays or lotions were applied to the volunteers’ arms.
All the tanners contain dihydroxyacetone, a chemical that reacts with the skin’s outer layer to create a darker color. When the patches were removed, Consumer Reports experts compared the skin underneath with the skin that was coloured.
For most of the products, it took about four hours to get the full effect. Then a second follow-up application was applied a day later to get a deeper tan.
Banana Boat Summer Color Self-Tanning lotion produced an orange color that was sometimes streaky.
Another problem with several of the tanners was the odour.
In the end, testers did find a favorite: L’Oréal Sublime Bronze Pro Perfect Salon Airbrush in Medium Natural Tan. It gave the most natural-looking results for around $10 per bottle.
Even though sunless tanners can give you a glow, Consumer Reports warns that they don’t provide sun protection, so you’ll want to wear a sunscreen.
Also, some people are allergic dihydroxyacetone, so try the tanner on a small area to see whether you react before applying it all over. And avoid inhaling it or getting it in your eyes.
