Sunless Tanning in Louisville, Kentucky (KY)

Getting a darker complexion doesn't mean you have to expose yourself to the sun’s damaging UV rays—that sun-kissed glow can be achieved through sunless tanning. The active ingredient in a lot of self-tanners, or sunless tanning products, is called dihydroxyacetone, which is a color additive. When applied, the additive reacts with proteins in the skin’s surface and temporarily darkens it. Over the next few days, the coloring wears off.

Sunless tanning products come in different forms such as sprays, gels, lotions and mousse. While they can be purchased in the beauty aisle of many drugstores, the person has to apply the product accurately and get to hard-to-reach areas in order to get a seamless tan, not streaks or patches of color. There is also a process: you must first exfoliate, apply in sections, wipe joints (e.g. knees and elbows) that absorb more of the product and allow time to dry.

Spas and tanning businesses, while more costly, are equipped to help you bypass these issues. They can also work with you to achieve the complexion you are looking for, which takes the guesswork out of choosing the right product and appropriate shade. Unlike some self-tanners that gradually build up color over a few days, products used in spas and tanning facilities can work in as little as two to three hours, making it optimal for special occasions.

Because sunless tanning products are temporary—only lasting a few days—this option is great for those who are not looking to commit to a tan and/or who want a tan but do not want to be exposed to the sun. Sun exposure can lead to sun spots, wrinkles, sagging skin, discoloration and other signs of aging.