The Sunshine Spot

Now They're Trying To Tell Us We Can't Spray Tan........TRYING.

2012-08-26T16:11:00.001-04:00

Are spray tans as dangerous as UV tanning sessions? That is the latest question the skin-scare industry is raising ever since an ABC report on the safety of spray tanning aired. The answer, in short, is no. While id love to say that my answer comes from plain old basic common sense, the fact of the matter is: there are no facts! It's amazing what a flashy news show can do. It can scare you and make you fear for your health without providing one single shred of valid evidence supporting its case.

For example, the report and a follow up article in the September 2012 issue of Allure magazine state that dihydroxyacetone (or DHA, the ingredient that actually causes skin to darken) was "found to cause DNA damage in bacteria and cells". That's it. Seriously, that's all they say. So my immediate response is a) what does an effect on bacteria have to do with possible effects on humans and b) exactly WHAT cells? Human? Rat? Fruit fly? Sunflower? The fact that the type of cells are not specified lead me to an almost certain conclusion that they are not human.

They don't stop there. They go on to question the safety of self tanning creams. Their cause for alarm is the fact that IF creams containing DHA are absorbed below the superficial layer of skin and into the dermis or bloodstream, a reaction could occur that forms age accelerating compounds. Now, if you use a self tanning cream on, say, your face then you already know that it doesn't absorb that deeply. A couple of face washes and you either have to reapply or it wears off. Therefore, and this IS just plain common sense, it can't be absorbing that deeply into your skin. Throughout the report and article, we are given professional quotes from highly regarded dermatologists who leave us with such gems as "I'm not sure what to think" and "it's probably all safe" which leaves me with just one question: Why is ANYONE listening to this crap?

I have returned!

2012-08-26T09:24:00.000-04:00

It's been a while but I've been pretty busy moving from North Carolina to Wyoming! Why the move? I wanted something different so when the opportunity presented itself, I didn't let it slip by! Moving here has opened my eyes to some new tanning issues that I will be writing about in upcoming articles along with articles that affect the entire population in general. Either way, be sure and read because if nothing else, I guarantee you will learn something interesting!

New Lotions For 2012!!

2012-02-18T18:29:00.002-05:00

This lotion review is being done with my co-critics, Carrie Cameron and Sarah Caudle. I find it is much easier to review the VAST amount of new lotions each year if you work as a team. Therfore, some will be lotions she has used and some will be lotions I have used. Each one will be noted as such. That being said, let's get started!

All reviews are done on a 5 star scale

Designer Skin Lotions

Everyone knows this is my favorite brand and they have some wonderful products this year for all you tanners out there. Below are what Sarah and I tried and we are honest so we will give you the good and the bad because not everything is perfect.....although Designer Skin comes pretty close ;)

Black Noir

Description: 22x bronzer derived from DS's Black Label Private Reserve that contains silicone emulsion with 2x Opti-Glow to leave skin soft and radiant. Miracle MelaInk technology, Ultra-pure DHA and Erythrulose provides noticeably darker skin after one session. Contains amino acids clinically proven to rapidly darken skin while providing anti-aging benefits. Tyrosine helps intensify bronzing. SunStay Technology and Fade Defying formula prolong the life of your tan.

Scent: Refreshing Citrus Twist

Thoughts: If there is one lotion you can count on to do exactly what it says on the tin, this is the one. All DS lovers know the Original "Black" was an exceptional lotion and "Black Noir" only improves on the original. It is super smooth and leaves your skin beautifully dark after use. Of all the new lotions for this year, this is without a doubt the best one.

Best For: Experienced Tanners

Final Review: 5/5 (Tony)

Cirque

Product Description: Powerful Erythrulose bronse provides deep, dark color. "Turn Back Time" technology helps diminish fine lines and wrinkles.Golden glitter adds a touch of sparkle to your skin.

Scent: Sensual Pink Sugar

Thoughts: I'm not much into shimmer but if you are, this will leave your skin positively and literally glowing after your tanning session. The shimmer is very iridescent. The bronzer is not as strong as that in some of the higher level lotions but is fine for those that are seeking a natural sun-bathed tan.

Best For: Moderate Tanners/Shimmer Lovers

Final Review: 4/5 (Tony)

More More More

Product Description: Moisture Splurge Hydrating Bronzers blend together to create a deep, dark, streak-free tan. Luxe Aloe Vera base with over 75 key ingredients that ensures skin quenching moisture with every use. Paraben and gluten free. Hypoallergenic.

Scent: Fruit Smoothie

Thoughts: The name of this lotion is exactly what it left me wanting: more. Everyone knows that I love DS products but I'm sorry to say they dropped the ball on this one. The consistency was not thick enough for my taste and I did not notice any bronzing at all when I used it. I also wan't too crazy about the scent. However, if you have skin allergies, this is the lotion to stick with.

Best For: Sensitive Skin

Final Review: 2/5 (Tony)

Armed & Fabulous

x Fiery sizzle designed to evoke extreme dark color. Green tea and chamomile help soothe and prepare skin. Royal Berry Extracts help diminish signs of aging.

Thoughts: I am a very experienced tanner and therefore my skin has built up a tolerance to the tingle sensation from tingle lotion. However, this one was strong enough to give me the tingle and it felt so good. The color I left with was rich and dark. My skin felt very moisturized after I left the salon. I'm also not a huge fan of fruity scents but this one smelled really nice even after leaving!

Scent: Mora Berry

Best For: Very Experienced Tanners

Final Review: 5/5

Coco De Ville

Product Description: Camu Camu complex and DHA combine to impart an exotic island glow. Powerful antioxidants and free radicals promote collagen reproduction. Loaded with caffeine to firm and tone your skin.

Fragrance: Crushed Pineapple & Coconut

Thoughts: The most amazing thing about this lotion is the scent. It's like a pina colada in a bottle! It was a little greasier than most of the DS line but it did produce a deep rich color. Hard to tell if the caffeine was effective with one use but if this is similar to DS's Revival (which also contains caffeine) then it will be great for toning skin.

Perfect for: Beachgoers/Regular Tanners

Final Review: 4/5 (Sarah)

Celebutante

Product Description: Famously rich XIX Must Have Bronzing Technology enraptures skin with spellbinding color. Exclusive Maqui berries lavish skin with smoothing antioxidants to help restore radiance and minimize the appearance of fine lines. Vitamin Punch Infusion fights free radicals and protects skin's natural glow.

Fragrance: Rich Maqui Berry

Thoughts: Excellent bronzing, especially if you enjoy fruity scents. The scent does not change in the tanning bed as some lotions do but stays the same so you smell great after your session. The lotion has a surprisingly thick consistency considering it is not a silicone emulsion.

Best For: Intermediate Tanners

Final Review: 4/5 (Carrie)

Coming Soon: The Anti-depressant benefits of tanning PLUS new lotions for 2012!!

2012-01-29T16:30:00.001-05:00

Just What Is A "Tingle" Lotion Anyway?!

2011-10-10T21:57:00.000-04:00

Tingle lotions. The name sounds a little bit scary. Do you really want to tingle and fizz while in a hot tanning bed? I’m sure a lot of you have wondered this and decided to play it safe and avoid using these lotions, instead opting for a traditional lotion. That’s perfectly OK because, I, your intrepid tanning guru felt the same way….until I saw someone walk into my salon with a tan I would kill for. I asked how she got that way. The answer? TINGLE LOTION. Go figure, right?!

Refusing to let anyone look more bronzed than me, I bravely decided I was going to put my preconceived notions aside and try one out. And just so we’re clear, I was so hesitant to try one that my preconceived notion basically consisted of me laying in the tanning bed covered in tingle lotion screaming “GET THE DEMON OUT!!!” I’m not ashamed to admit it, the whole concept scared me. Boy was I wrong ever wrong about all of it.

Let’s start with what I DIDN’T know before doing my homework:

What exactly is a tingle lotion?

Tingle lotions contain all the ingredients you find in your traditional indoor tanning lotions with a one or two additional for a little extra kick…..and a super dark tan, believe me! I’m ¼ Cherokee and when I got done with my first tingle lotion experience I looked every bit of it. It was awesome.

But I digress, the ingredients that cause the “tingle” or “hot action” are oddly enough commonly used to treat vitamin deficiencies! These ingredients cause micro-circulation, increasing blood flow and oxygenation of the skin’s cells. Now, for those of you without a PhD in Physiology, I’ll translate: it opens up your pores and allows for greater nutrient and sunlight absorption. (note: I do not and NEVER will have a PhD in Physiology).

The oxygenation helps nutrients reach the skin, which speeds up the skin’s natural growth and maintenance process. The more oxygen your skin gets during a tanning session, the better your results and I now know that this is THE way to the your quickest darkest tan that everyone will be so jealous over.

The truth is, you don’t so much tingle while in the bed. It’s more of an intense warming sensation and if you crave the warmth of a good tanning bed like I do, then you’ll feel like your tanning session is 15 minutes of heaven.

After you tan, your skin will look reddish brown for a couple of hours but not to worry, you aren’t burnt. It’s simply an after-effect of the pore opening process and completely harmless. This is the point at which you may feel some tingling…and you may feel it for a while but it isn’t uncomfortable….it’s actually pretty fun. It reminded me of Pop Rocks but instead of my mouth, I could feel them on my skin....like swimming in a sea of them. Go ahead and laugh but you try it and you'll see how neat if feels!

Now, while I did fall in love with the tingle lotion and many people who try them do, you should be aware that this type of lotion is for more experienced tanners who already have a nice dark base tan. Please don’t read this before your first visit and hop in a bed with a tingle lotion. That is not recommended by any reputable lotion company or salon. While experience tanners can easily enjoy the sensation, it will likely be too intense for beginners. Also, if you have sensitive skin, it’s not recommended that you use tingle lotions because the redness effect you get afterwards is likely to last longer and possibly cause mild irritation (nothing serious but probably not to comfortable)

Finally, since I did, after all, catch the Tingle Fever, I tried a plethora of lotions out and want to let you know my personal top three:

1. (my personal favorite) Trinity3 by Devoted Creations. This is a more intense tingle than the other lotions I listed in my top 3 BUT the color I had afterwards was the envy of all my friends. This is the one I ended up purchasing a full size bottle of because, well…try a sample pack of it and you can probably see why. It has a soft scent of raspberry pear that isn’t overpowering. It also contains Strivantn, which is a cosmetic incredient cousin to the better known Strivectin, that helps you look younger and refreshed when you are done tanning. I don’t know that I can say it made me look younger but it definitely made me look AMAZING!

2. Another excellent choice is Firestorm by Norvell. I’m a huge fan of Norvell’s tan extending products. The bottle says it is a banana and berry scent but I smelled a hint of caramel as well, probably because that is one of the natural bronzing agents that this product uses along with the tingle ingredients to give you a mega dark tan!

Finally, 3rd runner up is Dark ChocolateTini 5 Shots Sizzle by Fiesta Sun, which you almost have to love just for the name alone. This one had the least tingle of the three so if you're feeling a little shy, try this one to start out! I don't think I have to tell you what it smells like =)

UVA vs. UVB rays: Why Tanning Beds Are Safer

2011-08-29T02:07:00.008-04:00

I often have clients ask what the difference is between UVA and UVB sun rays. This is often followed by the question: why are tanning beds safer? Well let me answer both of those starting with the difference between the 2 rays:

Both names start with UV for Ultra Violet so essentially you have Ultraviolet Type A (UVA) and Ultraviolet type B (UVB)

UVA rays are typically considered safer in moderation than UVB rays. Outdoors, the strength of UVA rays is the same all year long. The have an energy per photon of 3.14-3.94 eV and are considered a "long wave" or "black light" wave. While UVA rays can cause problems when overexposed (such as laying in the sun for hours regardless of how much sunscreen you slather on), they are not the type of rays that cause the dangerous burning of the skin, unless of course you do as I mentioned above and bake yourself for hours on end, which can lead to a multitude of skin problems such as premature aging. As with anything, moderation is always the key.

UVB rays were originally considered to be the "tanning" ray. We now know that it is in fact, the ray that causes your skin to burn more quickly. They have a higher energy per photon (3.94-4.43 eV) and are "middle waves" meaning that although they penetrate less quickly than UVA rays, they affect the melanin (the stuff that causes your skin to tan) more deeply, resulting in a higher burning rate.

Now, why are tanning beds safer than sun exposure? Tanning bed lamps are typically made up of 97-99% UVA rays (depending on the quality of the bed) and 1-3% UVB rays. Since you are limited to no more than 15-20 minutes in a bed, your risk of burning is minimal. Plus, using a good salon with a knowledgeable staff will help you to get the right amount of exposure for your skin type. A good top quality lotion will also help keep your skin moisturized and give you quicker results in less time.
Something important to look for is whether or not the lamps in your bed are giving off bright light all the way through the lamps or whether they are appear darker than they should. Dark or dull lamps give off a higher amount of UVB rays. A good salon knows to change lamps at least every 1000 hours and the best salons will change them as often as 800-900 hours for your safety.

I'm working on an article where I visited beds in Greensboro/High Point/Kernersville and that will give you more specifics on my opinion of the salons to go to and the ones to avoid. For now though, I will tell you that if you are in High Point, I recommend The Tan Line on N. Main St and if you are in Greensboro, I recommend Got Sun? on New Garden Rd. Both of these salons are the only ones I have found that are diligent about changing their lamps as needed and ensuring that every client tans properly.

If you have any questions I didn't answer, feel free to leave a comment or drop me a line!

Why Indoor Tanning Is Better Than Outdoor Tanning!

2011-05-29T02:39:00.002-04:00

People always ask me what makes indoor tanning better than outdoor tanning. Part of me hates answering that question simply because there are SO many reasons that it can take forever to give a complete answer. So, I decided to make this week's post a nice organized list of the plethora of reasons you are better off getting your necessary vitamin D dose from a tanning salon then laying by the pool.

Exposure Control

Your body needs sunlight but it only needs a certain amount of it. Doctors vary slightly in their recommendations regarding the amount of exposure that you need but the general range is 15 to 20 minutes of direct UV exposure per day, without sunscreen. More than that and you risk burning. Less and you don't absorb enough UV light for proper Vitamin D synthesis. When using an indoor bed, you are only allowed to use it for a certain amount of time (usually between 12 and 20 minutes depending on the strength of the bulbs). This is in order to moderate the level of exposure you are getting and to prevent you from burning. Burning your skin is what can lead to skin cancer. Sun exposure alone does NOT lead to skin cancer and I will happily argue that point with anyone who wishes to do so!

Reduced Risk Of Burning

I'd be willing to bet that most of you have experienced at least one occasion where you take a trip to the beach or even the local pool to soak up some rays. You lay out that beach towel and make yourself comfortable then the next thing you know you wake up two hours later burnt to a crisp. That's the problem with outdoor tanning, you don't know anything about the UV exposure you are getting. You have no idea how strong the rays are, you don't know how much actual sunlight you are getting. Clouds come and go and that can affect the strength of the light your body is absorbing.

Retina Protection

When using an indoor tanning salon, you are required to use goggles that protect your eyes from UV light. While moderated UV light is beneficial for your skin, it is quite dangerous for exposed eyes and the thin skin that makes up your eyelid is simply not enough protection for your eyes. How many people do you see laying out in the sun with goggles on? Not many at all! If you've ever laid out in the sun for an extended period of time and then gone inside, you may have noticed that everything had a purplish tint to it that lasted anywhere from a half hour to several hours. Guess what? That's sun damage you did to your eyes from exposing them to UV rays. You know you are at a trustworthy salon if they ask to see your goggles before you are allowed to tan. If they don't, be very skeptical of their overall concern for your health.
One more thing regarding eye protection. Don't be stupid and show your goggles to the salon attendant and then not wear them in the bed. Goggles are now made so that they don't leave you with the "raccoon-eye" look so please, wear them the entire time you are in the bed. It's just good common sense!

Cosmetic Appeal

If you are tanning, there is a very good chance that you aren't going only for the vitamin D. Let's be honest: a person with a tan looks better than a person without one! This is where indoor tanning is a major plus over outdoor tanning. With an indoor bed, you get a nice even tan (including areas that you can't expose in public....I don't care what anyone say, tan lines are not attractive.) When tanning outdoors, it can take hours of exposure to get a tan that is most likely darker on the front than on the back and sides. Of course, the higher quality the tanning bed you use, the better results you will get. If you want the absolute perfect tan, just try the Ergoline 600 Turbo Bed. You can't do any better, period.
Tanning helps reduce the appearance of scars, clear mild cases of acne. Doctors prescribe tanning beds as a treatment for patients with both eczema and psoriasis (forms of dermatitis). Tanning makes you look thinner which is especially popular when it gets close to beach season.

Here's something else to think about: Recent studies in Europe suggest that UV light exposure stimulates the thyroid gland (this is the gland that affects your metabolism). If this is proven to be true, that would mean that tanning can help you lose weight. Definitely stay tuned to this blog as I intend to follow this research closely!

Why A Good Lotion is Essential: Part 2 of 2 - Lotion Reviews

2011-05-13T21:37:00.014-04:00

I have tried a LOT of lotions and when I say a lot, well....lets just say the owner of the regular salon I visits calls me a "Lotion Junkie". I wear that name with pride. Now there are good lotions, REALLY good lotions, and there are also some lotions to avoid. A quality lotion purchase is a big investment and I always wished there was an easy-to-follow site that gave honest reviews of lotions. Well, I guess I'm just going to have to start one myself, right here on the ole' blog. Hopefully, reading this will help you decide on the lotion that is best for you so you can make a confident purchase....unless you get cheap and try to buy outside a salon, then I can't be held responsible for the "surprise concoction" you may be getting.

Best Lotions*

*based on moisturizing properties, skin benefit ingredients, quality of bronzers (both natural and chemical), and scent (after tanning, most of these dont change scent and if they do, its still good....no "tanning bed smell")

TAN SAFE TAN SAFE TAN SAFE TAN SAFE TAN SAFE TAN SAFE TAN SAFE

Designer Skin brand Lotions

REVIVAL

Features:

bronzer complex comprised of Tyrostan (a derivative of tyrosine, thought to aid in melanin production), an amino acid that Black Walnut Extract, melanin-boosting peptides
enhanced with caffeine and stimulating ingredients to increase cellular stimulation
antioxidants and nutrients to give a healthy glow
scent: Orange Sandalwood

Thoughts:

This is a great lotion for every skin type and it is especially "beginner-friendly". The scent of a lotion is very important to me, not only before you tan but after as well because some lotions change scent in the process. The best ones don't. This one smells AMAZING before and after with a hint of citrus and a touch of creamy sandalwood. The two scent notes unite and neither is overpowering. I've never heard anyone say they don't like the scent.

The color is very natural. If you are going for a super dark tan then this is not going to be your best pick. If you want a healthy glow, look no further.

NOTE:
Revival is #3 of my top 5 favorite picks

Aphrodisiac

Features:

Luxurious Shea & Cocoa butter formula
amino acid complex for strengthening the bronzing process
infusion of apple, chocolate, and black cohosh provides a sexy glow

Thoughts:

Great lotion for those who prefer no bronzer in their lotion. It has an extra thick consistency but is not greasy and leaves your skin feeling smooth the whole day. Again, if you are going for a dark color this lotion will not provide it but if you want a natural color and are need extra moisture, you'll find it right here!

Liberate

Features:

Dark Natural Bronzers
Skin Guardian Complex, derived from the leaves of the candle tree
Gentle Cool Burst Botanicals
Scent: Unisex (think CK Be for Men and Women)

Thoughts:

This may well be the best lotion I have ever used. One of the natural bronzers used is Henna root and the color it delivers is superb. The subtle cooling effect is perfect, not too strong but not too light.

NOTE:
Liberate is #1 of my top 5 favorite picks.

Masquerade

Features:

Patent Rapid Release delivery system for fast results.
Luxe Creme formula covers skin in a velvety Cocoa/Shea butter blend
Abyssine and Rhodiola extracts added for their potent antioxidant powers for protection against free radicals
Scent: Ruby Orange Musk

Thoughts:

One of the creamiest lotions I've tried and if you love the smell of Orange and musk then you'll fall in love with this one immediately. Like most Designer Skin lotions this leaves a natural looking color.

Ravish Me

Features:

Dark Natural Bronzers
Antioxidant-loaded to fight free radicals and boost collagen production
Scent: Exotic Orange Raspberry Fusion

Thoughts:

This is another great lotion (can you tell I'm a big Desiger Skin fan?), especially for those who want to enhance their color without using chemical bronzers. Yes, it does actually work and I thought the color was amazing given that their were no "instant bronzers" in it. Well worth it for those that prefer a more organic approach!

Australian Gold brand Lotions

Sinfully Black

Features

Advanced Dark bronzers work together to create fast results
Vitamin/Non-comedogenic oils help soften skin
Hemp Seed Oil nourishes skin
Scent: not specified but it reminds me of Bath & Body Works Sensual Amber body lotion

Thoughts

If you are on a tight budget but know you need a good lotion (like everyone needs), this is hands down the one for you. It's moisturizing and leaves your skin extremely dark. You really can't lose with this one.

Mood Indigo

Features:

10x bronzers for a super dark tan
ColorSurge technology that delivers rapid results
Wild Indigo extract, known for its calming/centering properties help with peace-of-mind if you are one who seeks tanning in order to relax
Scent: Wild Indigo (if you've never smelled Wild Indigo then let me tell you, it is one of the prettiest, calming scents next to lavender)

Thoughts:
If you want a top-of-the-line scent that delivers fast dark results and also helps de-stress with its aromatherapeutic properties, this is the one. The scent alone was enough to talk me into it. Not to mention the moisturizing properties.

NOTE:

Mood Indigo is #5 of my top 5 favorite picks.

JWOWW

Features:

A combination of DHA, black currant, and kukui oil helps provide dark results that last.
Vitamin and Hemp Seed extract deliver extreme hydration for soft, supple skin.
Scent: Sensual Dark Berry (mainly Black Currant, well-known for its aromatherapy benefit of Arousal and Sensuality)

Thoughts:

I admit I am not a Jersey Shore fan (except Snooki, something about her tickles me) so I wasn't expecting much from this lotion but I was wrong. It is a great lotion for the price and provides good results if you aren't looking for any extra frills like silicone. It also soaks right into your skin so you don't have any greasy residue. The predominant berry in the scent is Black Currant, widely known for its sensual and arousing aromatherapy properties.

Going Ga-Ga

Features:

20x Natural bronzer combination for deep, dark results
Silver extract for skin rejuvenation, antioxidant, and skin-renewal properties
Silver and pink mica combine to leave a glowing after effect
Scent: Fresh and Clean

Thoughts:

For a 20x bronzer, this is another budget-friendly lotion that is right up there with the best of them. It produces a nice dark color and, for those of you who enjoy shimmer, it leaves a light shimmer after you tan that stays on until you rinse it off. Excellent moisturizer.

Supre Tan Lotions

Domination for Men

Features:

Advanced Black Bronzing Blend of DHA and Natural Bronzers dramatically darkens skin even AFTER UV tanning
Ultimate Tan Maximizers help provide dynamic color density and darkness.
Innovative emulsion system goes on smooth and won't matte body hair during application.
Non-comedogenic
Advanced blend of natural skin supplements help provide moisture to renew & revitalize skin

Thoughts:

One of the best lotions I have used and the price is too good to be true for the quality. Gives an incredibly dark tan and really does continue to darken with its "kept-secret" blend of bronzers. Great masculine scent and it doesn't matte your body hair so you can slap it on without a second thought.

NOTE:
Domination is #2 of my top 5 favorite picks

Ed Hardy Lotions

Ghost Skull

Features:

Bronzing/Blush formula for a deep,dark tan
Silicone Emulsion complex for smooth, ulta-silky skin
CoEnzyme Q-10 reduces wrinkles and fine lines as well as fights antioxidants
Scent: Fresh Citrus

Thoughts:

The silicone emulsion complex feels amazing before, during, and after tanning. If you've never used a silicone-based tanning lotion, TRY THIS ONE! The benefits to your skin combined with the benefits of UV light make it a no-brainer! Plus, it smells great before, during, and after tanning!

NOTE:

Ghost Skull is #4 of my top 5 favorite picks.

Love Kills Slowly

Features:

Unique Blend of Silicone and Coconut Milk provides superior moisture
Time-released DHA combined with natural bronzers keeps you tanning after your session in the bed
Caffeine targets cellulite and fights fat cells on target areas
Scent: Citrus Crush

Thoughts:

This almost made it into my top 5 list since it is similar to Designer Skin's Revival, however I don't have cellulite (benefit of being a guy) and no fat to fight so I picked Ghost Skull over it. However, for those of you that do want the aforementioned properties, I did notice a gentle firming of my skin after applying thoroughly so it does what it says it does. The smell is AMAZING and does not change while tanning. Imagine Orange and a hint of Fresh Balsam Fir mixed together. I especially like this in the cooler months because Orange and Fir are a great holiday combination (but its great year round, particularly for those nostalgic for anything holiday-related)

Swedish Beauty lotions

Browning Silk Facial Bronzer

Features:

Deep tanning extracts
Vitamins A, C, and E act as antioxidants for superior skin protection
Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic for most users
Scent: Unscented

Thoughts:

Hands down the BEST facial lotion I hace ever used. Leaves skin soft and supple with a natural glow. Not too dark which is good for your face. I've tried a lot of facial bronzers and this is superior to all other ones! It is also very budget friendly!

Lotions to Avoid:

Wal-Mart's European Gold brand

yes it's cheap and for $4-8 a bottle its hard to turn down. Looking at the label even shows it has the same ingredients as some of the more expensive lotions.
But here's the thing: the QUALITY of those ingredients is inferior to those of more reputable brands. I mean, that should be obvious given the price.
I tried it ONE time and it left my skin tight and dry. It went straight in the trash afterwards.

Hawaiian Tropic's T2

Another case of "you get what you pay for", the biggest problem with this lotion is that it contains mineral oil which is known to damage tanning beds. If you want your tanning salon to give you the "stink eye" for messing up their beds (and possibly ask you to not come back), then grab this one and let the bad times roll.

ANYTHING not bought in a salon

Beware of websites that sell lotions for a significantly lower price than your salon. There may be a couple of legitimate sites out there but what bothers me is that even if they are legitimate, how are they making a profit?

There have been plenty of stories of people who purchased lotions from websites only to find out that they were diluted, expired, or something entirely different then the advertised product. They also often are diluted with things that damage the acrylic in tanning beds. Sensing a theme here? Unhappy tanning salon owners are not good. You want to have a good relationship with your salon because they take care of loyal customers. Damage their expensive equipment and that relationship is in jeopardy.

I decided to be cheap ONE time and bought a lotion of Amazon Marketplace. When I got it, I used it and noticed that I didn't seem as tan as I usually did using that lotion (from a salon). Upon closer inspection, I then noticed that the top had been pried off and put back on so clearly my "sealed lotion" was not so sealed after all.

I might have paid $20 for the lotion (and saved $30) but I ended up losing the $20 because I threw the lotion away and purchased it from my salon. Final cost: $50 for the salon bottle plus $20 lost to the impostor = $70 for a $50 bottle of lotion. Way to save money, huh?

So: if you thing you will save money this way, just look at the math on my part and think twice.

Why A Good Lotion is Essential: Part 1 of 2

2011-04-28T17:55:00.004-04:00

If you've ever been to a tanning salon, you are familiar with the layout in every lobby: a colorful selection of bottles of creamy moisturizers, all different shapes and sizes and all advertising darker colors, softer skin, anti-aging, etc. You have more than likely also notice that many of them come with a hefty price tag.

I consider myself something of a skin-care expert (thats right, we don't ALL hide from the sun!) and a lot of clients ask me about various regimens and products. The 2 questions I hear the most regarding tanning lotions are: "Do I really need to use one?" and "Do they really need to charge that much for them?!"

The simple answers, respectively, are: "yes" and "yes"

The slightly more in-depth answers, respectively, are: "You should be using a moisturizer for EVERYTHING." and "Let me just link you to my blog."

Moisturizing, IN GENERAL, is essential and everyone should do it at least one time a day but preferably more. Your body is mostly comprised of water so its a "no-brainer" that you need to stay hydrated not only by drinking water but also by absorbing moisture. This is especially important when in the sun. Those doctors that you hear tell you sun exposure will prematurely age the skin? Well, they are half right.

I'm going to break it down in a very simple 2-sentence explanation that sums the whole deal up:

What they don't always tell you is that regular intense moisturizing will solve this problem. Your skin needs moisture for cell renewal and turnover. Without it, cellular regeneration slows and skin begins to dry out, causing it to appear older. Yep, its that simple. So is using a moisturizer. Its just such an easy (but unfortunately too often disregarded) way to maintain healthy skin.

So, that leads us to the next point.When tanning, you shouldn't use any moisturizer you feel like. The $1 generic version of Vaseline lotion is not going to do you any good and in fact CAN CAUSE PERMANENT DAMAGE to a tanning bed. Any moisturizer with mineral oil reacts with the bed lamps and leaves many a salon owner quite unhappy with you. This is why "outdoor" lotions are prohibited in tanning beds. It is NOT a competition issue.

Indoor tanning lotions are made specifically to maximize your ability to tan while still letting you get just the "moderate" amount of exposure that you need. In other words, using a good lotion can make you look like you tan a LOT more than you really do. I am walking proof of that and a good deal of that is thanks to Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a formula that darkens skin tone. Combining a small amount of this compound with a moderated amount of UV light exposure can result in a very impressive tan that makes many people assume I am either originally from or just returning from a tropical beach area (psst....I'm not.....and I haven't)!

Of COURSE there is much more to that bottle you see in the lobby. Reputable companies such as Designer Skin, Australian Gold, Swedish Beauty, SupreTan, and Norvell got to be the industry leaders by formulating lotions that contain the best quality moisturizers.

Sure, you can go to Wal-Mart and get their $6 bottle of tanning lotion and tell yourself that the ingredients are similar to the expensive versions and the label looks "kinda" like an Ed Hardy label so it must be just as good! However, you might want to also enroll in Marketing 101 while you're at it because you're probably getting scammed left and right. Sure, the ingredient list may seem similar but that tells you NOTHING about the quality of the ingredients or the amounts they contain. Current FDA regulations only dictate that a company list ingredients in order from most to least. So, while the $60 Designer Skin lotion contains Grade A Shea Butter (another thing the FDA doesnt require companies to label on products) which is considered by the American Shea Butter Institute (www.sheabutterinstitue.com) to be the best for cosmetic products, that $6 gem you got yourself at Wal-Mart contains Grade D Shea Butter almost ENTIRELY devoid of nutrients (by the way, Grade F is a category considered "unfit for human use".)

Since we're talking about misinformation, I should also caution anyone who goes online and sees an $80 bottle of lotion for only $19 that YES, it is too good a deal to be true! Indoor tanning lotions are only certified to be sold at tanning salons to ensure quality control. If you see a high-end lotion with a cheap price tag, you probably ARE better off buying the generic Vaseline because that is probably what's in the bottle anyway. Worst case scenario, the seller has switched out the contents with something that leaves you with a lovely rash for weeks. Online sites are constantly being closed down for this very reason and if you pull up a search for indoor tanning lotions on Google, you'll notice that a lot of the store sites look very similar and carry the same brands. This is so the scam artists involved can afford to let one site get busted and shut down but still have a little time to rip you off before the other ones are shut down as well. For more information, take a gander at the "Product Diversion" section of Designer Skin's website.

Just like many things in life, you get what you pay for and its no different with tanning lotions. I'll never forget the first time I tried a truly good lotion. The difference is worth every penny....and bear in mind that it is a tanning loton so you don't use it quickly and therefore, don't buy it that often.

Come back tomorrow for Part 2: find the tanning lotion that is best suited to your preferences by reading my in-depth reviews on some of my favorite lotions, including Designer Skin Revival, Designer Skin Liberate, Ed Hardy Ghost Skull, Australian Golds Going GA GA, Mood Indigo and Sinfully Black!

The Importance of the "Base Tan"

2011-04-20T08:10:00.002-04:00

With summer approaching, you may have heard of people talking about getting a "base tan". So, just what is this "base tan" anyway? A base tan, simply put, is the gradual process by which the skin naturally develops color (by moderated indoor or outdoor UV exposure) from melanin production.
The reason a base tan is so important is because it helps prevent sun damage (i.e sun burning of the skin) from a sudden onslaught of UV exposure. In other words, if you head to the beach without any previous sun exposure and spend the entire day in the sun, even with sunscreen, there is a significant chance you will be burnt to a crisp by the end of the day.

For those of you that are part of the 40+ crowd, you may remember that, as recently as the 80's, the traditional "rite of passage" to every summer was to burn yourself and then tan from there out. We now know that that particular practice is responsible for a great deal of the current number of skin cancer cases.
A tan is your body's natural protection against sunburn. Your body is built to tan as a natural body function....otherwise we wouldn't be able to do it!

The easiest and safest way to achieve a base tan is to visit a Smart Tan Certified Tanning Salon where the employees are specifically trained to help you gradually achieve a healthy base tan based on your skin type and your summer plans.

When you are planning on spending a day at the beach, a base tan is still not an excuse to avoid sunscreen. Extended periods of outdoor UV exposure still require a sunscreen. The benefit of getting a base tan first is that you can use a lower SPF (between 8 and 15) which will protect your skin while still allowing you to get a tan and you can avoid the higher level SPF's (15 and up) as new studies are popping up left and right that show the amount of chemicals in higher level SPF's are possibly more dangerous than UV light exposure.

So, to sum up, before you head out to the beach or even your patio deck this summer to soak in some rays, visit a Smart Tan Certified Tanning Salon and talk with the employees about what they can do to help you achieve a healthy an safe base tan. Then, get your summer started!

Now they want to start Vitamin D deficiencies as early as possible......

2011-04-15T21:07:00.000-04:00

So certain lawmakers are attempting to stop teenagers under 18 from using tanning salons. I guess they haven't looked into the fact that vitamin D deficiency is even affecting children/teenagers now. While still fairly rare in developed countries, Rickets in children is on the rise and its something we pretty much thought was a thing of the past...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rickets

Sunlight can PREVENT cancer! Who knew?!!

2011-04-12T07:30:00.000-04:00

Last week, I talked about the fact that our bodies need vitamin D and that sunlight is the best way to get it. Now, I want to take that one step further and talk about the fact that sunlight exposure can actually help prevent some forms of cancer. That's right: PREVENT.

All we hear about today is how the sun is evil and causes skin cancer. The cosmetics industry tells us to slather on that sunscreen so no sunlight can get to our skin. The truth is that skin caner occurs from OVEREXPOSURE (i.e. burning of the skin), not from regular moderated exposure. When the skin burns, that is what causes cellular damage and that cellular damage may lead to skin cancer. Here's another truth: Conclusive studies have shown that sunlight has been proven to reduce the risk of the following types of cancers: colon, breast, prosate, and ovarian. These are some of the most common and deadly forms of cancer and one of the easiest ways to prevent it is to get some sun!

In 2006, a landmark paper was published by Dr. Cedric F. Garland and Dr. Frank C. Garland. This paper reviewed 63 seperate observational studies that examined the role of vitamin D in protecting against the aforementioned types of cancer. Here is a breakdown of the findings:

Colon cancer: 20 of 30 studies (67%) conducted found a statistically significant benefit of vitamin D exposure against the risk of colon cancer and cancer mortality.
Breast cancer: 9 of 13 studies (70%) conducted reported a positive association with vitamin D exposure and reduced cancer risk.
Prostate cancer: 13 out of 26 studies (50%) found a statistically significant association of sunlight exposure and reduced cancer risk.
Ovarian cancer: 5 of 7 studies (71%) found higher mortality rates associated with areas of lower sunlight levels.

This study, along with the already known benefits of vitamin D make another compelling case in favor of sunlight exposure. Furthermore, after this study was published, both the American Cancer Society and the Canadian Cancer Society both admitted that people need to increase their exposure to sunlight. Now there's something you won't hear from the cosmetics industry!

As always, keep your exposure moderated. Talk with a professional tanning salon about the best way to get the right amount of exposure for your skin type and take advantage of one of the most natural ways to increase your health!

What's the deal with Vitamin D, anyway?!

2011-04-03T04:10:00.000-04:00

Vitamin D is necessary for your body to function properly. It supports bone health and your immune system. It has been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.

Vitamin D comes in 5 different forms but the most important to your body are D2 and D3. Of these two, D3 is more significant because it is the one more efficiently processed by your body. Numerous studies have shown that a Vitamin D3-specific deficiency has been linked to a number of health problems. A few of these are depression, back pain, cancer, complications during pregnancy (including insulin resistance and pre-eclampsia), impaired immunity and macular degeneration. The list goes on and on. Just google “vitamin D3 deficiency” and see what pops up.

While most people assume that they get it from the food they eat, there are actually only a small range of foods that contain significant amounts of vitamin D and most of these are sources of Vitamin D2. The main food that naturally contains D3 is fatty fish (such as salmon, catfish, mackerel, tuna, etc.). In fact, it is nearly impossible to get the recommended amount of Vitamin D through your diet. So how do we get Vitamin D3? The answer is easy: our bodies synthesize it from UV light exposure to bare skin. It is the only vitamin that can do this which is why it is often referred to as “The Sunshine Vitamin”.

So, if getting Vitamin D3 is as easy as going out in the sun, why has there been such a HUGE increase in Vitamin D deficiency? That answer is even easier: people spend almost their entire day indoors and/or they have become afraid of the sun. The first reason can’t be helped. People have to work and for most that means an indoor job that gives them little chance to get sunlight. The second reason is just a matter of being educated. The cosmetics industry has done an AMAZING job of making people think that they need to buy all products with sunscreen in them without ever mentioning that sunlight exposure is vital to good health.

Don’t get me wrong on this. Just like most things, too much exposure is not good for you either. Moderation is the key to getting enough Vitamin D without damaging your skin. The safest way to get the amount you need (which is about 15-20 minutes a day, several days a week) is to use a tanning bed in a professional salon with a well-educated staff. By using a tanning bed, you are getting mostly UVA rays whereas natural sunlight contains UVA and UVB rays (UVB rays are more likely to cause burning). With a tanning bed, you get a controlled amount of exposure that won’t go over the time you need for your body to synthesize an adequate amount of Vitamin D3.

In coming posts, I will talk about the various other reasons that the benefits of those with moderated UV exposure outweighs any risks, even for people with a family history of skin cancer. However, Vitamin D is essential to health and longevity so therefore it will always be the most important reason to get some sun!

SUN = GOOD!

2011-03-30T23:33:00.000-04:00

I've been working in the fitness industry for several years now. One of the things I do with my clients is a dietary analysis and the one thing that almost consistently shows up in every analysis I do is a severe vitamin D deficiency, even when all other vitamins and minerals are meeting the needed goals.
People are not only getting less vitamin D in their diets but they are also unaware of the fact that sunlight is the easiest way to get this essential nutrient. On top of that, the cosmetic industry has gone out of their way to scare people into thinking sunlight will do a number of HORRIBLE things to your skin. This simply isn't true.
The last straw for me came when my mother went to the doctor to find out that she had shrunk 3 inches in a matter of a few years. The reason? A vitamin D deficiency!
I created this blog to make people aware of the undeniable fact that moderated sun exposure far outweighs the possible harm that can come from irresponsible sun exposure. It's time we let out bodies absorb sunlight the way it needs to and I want to do everything I can to reach out to people and let them know that the sun is not the enemy it has been made out to be and that avoiding it is FAR worse for your health than a healthy amount of regular exposure.