The Fake Tanning Revolution

Today more people than ever are using fake tanningproducts to get that all-important glow.  The need for a tan has become an all-consuming passion with some.  This addiction to a bronzed look is not just found in those of a certain age, from a certain area or even a specific gender, but has taken the world by storm. 

 

There are so many ways to use fake tanning, including sprays, bronzers, creams, foams and booths.  The many options to suit various budgets have allowed this revolution to take off in a new way.  The reliability of modern products, which are more suitable for sensitive skin and less prone to streaking, has inspired a vast swathes of the population to turn to faking it as a tanning solution.

 

The surge in fake tanning usage is part of a general trend towards ‘fake’ products in beauty.  Indeed these products are gradually changing the connotations of the word ‘fake’.  It has become acceptable and even encouraged to enhance your natural beauty through a range of increasingly affordable products including lash extensions, make-up, wigs and anti-aging methods. 

 

The revolution has been sparked in part by the many celebrities who are firm fans of fake tanning products.  It seems that anyone who is anyone has at one time or another used fake tanning methods to ensure a glowing look ahead of a premier or awards ceremony, or even a holiday!  Jennifer Aniston, J-Lo, Lindsay Lohan, Sandra Bullock, Cheryl Cole, Katie Price – these women have all used bronzing products to enhance their looks.  They have inspired their fans to follow suit in perfecting their bronzed look through fake tan. 

 

Fake tanning gained a popularity boost after scientists linked sunbathing to skin cancer in 1960s.  Concerns over ultra violet rays forced a whole generation of sun-seekers to slap on the sunscreen or stay in the shade.  In order to achieve their long perfected tans they had to turn to other methods.  Since the original health reports were made there have been significant advancements in technology and products. 

 

Today you can choose between a dye, stain, paint or a product with an active ingredient.  The most popular of these is dihydroxyacetone or DHA, which is often used as the active chemical.  DHA reacts with amino acids in the top layer of your (dead) skin causing a ‘browning’ effect.  This darkened colour will not wash off but merely fades over the course of a week.  Using DHA combined with other chemicals can give longer-lasting results and offers you the opportunity to choose from a variety of shades.  The popularity of these methods has increased exponentially as they are relatively inexpensive.  Furthermore, in today’s ‘instant’ culture the products offer fast results.  Those who want to achieve a tan no longer need to sit for hours in the sun or even lie in a sunbed: you are able to get your tan on your lunch break.

 

People have long talked about a ‘healthy’ glow and many find that using fake tanning products can give you that edge, that confidence and a feeling of beauty.  It is well known that tanned legs look slimmer and people often feel considerably more glamorous once they have applied their favourite tanning product.  Indeed, celebrities are not alone in wanting to look tanned before they go on holiday; many people are reluctant to get into swimwear without applying at least a hint of a tan first. 

 

For those who are unfortunate enough to have poor weather on holiday fake tanning has become an absolute must.  It has become a badge of honour to be able to show off a perfect tan following a holiday.  Friends and colleagues begin to look at you in a pitying manner if you return paler than expected and conversations can turn into holiday ‘top trumps’.  Now it is easier than ever to apply fake tan before you return, or to top up your tan after your return.