With the past few days of weather reaching into the 90's, Summer is reminding us that she is right around the corner, bringing with her long, lazy nights, outside cooking and days at the lake. Those of us who've spent the winter (and spring) cooped up inside, are suddenly scrambling to find something, anything, to transform us from pale house dwellers to bronze gods.
It's pretty common knowledges that tanning beds and allowing oneself to bake in the UV rays of the sun are no longer smart options for achieving a summer glow, and many will use sunless tanners as an alternative. What not everyone knows is that most of these "tan in a can" products contain some ingredients that may still be harmful. In fact, a recent study conducted in Germany found that skin treated with DHA, the active ingredient in sunless tanners, produced 180 percent more free radicals when it was exposed to UV light than untreated skin did!
The best option, of course, is something paraben-free and plant-derived. Read on for some of my favorite options for fun in the sun this summer.
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Lavera Self-Tanning Lotion (online prices start at $22)
Get a safe, natural looking tan without sun exposure! Organic soy extracts provide the active ingredient and are combined with extracts of sugar to deliver a smooth, foolproof application and a natural, even result. Organic jojoba oil, calendula, aloe vera and rose water offer moisturizing benefits and leave skin feeling refreshed. Winner of the "Best Sunless Tan" Award by GorgeouslyGreen.com's 2008 Beauty Awards.
Kiss My Face Instant Sunless Tanner (online prices start at $5)
Get a light tan in seconds and a deeper color in four hours. The beauty of this year round, quick drying, self-tanner is that it allows you to see where and how its been applied, which prevents streaking and gives instant color. Good for you ingredients include green tea, Juglans Nigra Leaf (Walnut) Leaf Extract, and walnut shell extract (for natural color).
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Nature's Gate Organics Upper Tanagement Self Tanning Creme (online prices start at $8)
Natural caramel color and a light, fresh scent is the only thing you'll find in this streak-free self tanner. Easy to use and even easier to manage, this natural approach to a sun-enhanaced glow ensures safe sun and beautiful skin. Several of the key ingredients in this paraben-free sunless tanner are certified organic. Also available: Happy Glow Lucky Bronzing Creme.
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