Self-tanners have taken the beauty world by storm as a safe alternative to getting a sun-kissed glow. They are a great way to achieve a natural, bronzed finish without the damaging effects of UV rays. However, when it comes to light and laser therapy, it’s best to take a break. Here are some top reasons why you should avoid using self-tanners if you’re planning on getting light and laser therapy.

Why self-tanners are not compatible with light and laser therapy:

1. Skin Reactions: Self-tanners often contain ingredients such as dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which react with the top layer of skin to produce a tan. This reaction can conflict with the reaction that occurs during light and laser therapy, making the treatment less effective.

2. Unpredictable results: Self-tanners can lead to unpredictable skin results when combined with light and laser therapy. This is because the pigmentation of the skin can be uneven, which can affect the accuracy of the treatment.

3. Increased risk of complications: Self-tanners, when used in conjunction with light and laser therapies, can increase the risk of complications by preventing the light from correctly recognizing the target pigment of the treatment. This can lead to uneven results, reduced treatment effectiveness, and even potentially dangerous side effects.

An important rule of thumb is that you should stop using self-tanners at least 4 weeks prior to Light and Laser Therapy treatment. This will ensure that the treatment can be carried out effectively and safely, with optimal results for your skin.

But we are fans of self-tanners. In fact, we recommend them as an alternative to sun tanning.

The benefits of self-tanners:

1. Fast and easy: Self-tanners provide results within hours of application, unlike natural tanning from sun exposure, which can take days to weeks. Modern self-tanners come in a variety of forms, including sprays, lotions, mousses, and wipes, making them easy to apply.

2. Customizability : You can determine the intensity of your tan by the amount of product you apply and how often you use it.

3. Safe Alternative: Self-tanners offer a safe alternative to exposure to harmful UV rays from the sun or tanning beds, which can reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging.

4. Moisturizing properties: Many self-tanners contain moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, which can keep skin soft and hydrated.

5. Ideal after skin improvement: After a skin improvement treatment with, for example, light and laser, the use of self-tanners can be ideal to give the skin a healthy glow without exposure to the sun.

How self-tanners work:

1. Chemical reaction : The active ingredient DHA, a colorless sugar molecule, reacts with amino acids in the dead skin cells of the stratum corneum (the top layer of the skin). This reaction is known as the Maillard reaction, which is also responsible for the browning of food when heated.

2. Coloration : The reaction between DHA and the amino acids results in the formation of brown pigments known as melanoidins. This process usually begins within 1 to 2 hours of application and the color continues to develop over a period of 6 to 8 hours.

3. Duration of the color : The brown color produced by self-tanners remains visible until the top layer of the skin renews itself, which usually happens within 5 to 7 days. Regularly Exfoliating and moisturizing prior to applying self-tanner can help your tan last longer.

4. Long-lasting color : Some self-tanners also contain erythrulose, another sugar molecule that causes a similar reaction but works more slowly and is often combined with DHA for a more natural, long-lasting color.

5. SPF extra needed : Self-tanners do not provide protection against the sun and therefore not against sun damage afterwards. It is therefore very important to use an adequate sun protection factor (SPF) after using a self-tanner. Research has also shown that free radicals are more strongly activated by UV radiation in DHA-treated skin than in untreated skin. All the more reason to have your SPF in order throughout the day.

How are self-tanners made:

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is mainly produced through a microbiological fermentation process using glycerol as the main starting material.

1. Source of Glycerol : Glycerol, also known as glycerine, is a byproduct of biodiesel production and the saponification reaction in the soap industry. It can also be obtained from natural sources such as vegetable oils.

2. Fermentation : Glycerol is subjected to a fermentation process using specific microorganisms such as bacteria or yeasts. For example, the bacterium Gluconobacter oxydans is a commonly used microorganism for the production of DHA.

3. Biochemical reaction : During fermentation, the microorganisms convert glycerol into DHA. This process takes place in a controlled environment where temperature, pH and oxygen levels are closely monitored to ensure optimal growth of the microorganisms and maximum production of DHA.

4. Purification : After fermentation, the DHA is extracted from the fermentation broth and purified. This involves steps such as filtration, concentration and crystallization to obtain pure DHA.

5. Drying and packaging : The purified DHA is dried and packaged. The final product is a colorless, crystalline substance that is stable and can be easily processed into various self-tanning formulations.

6. Green : Using microbial fermentation for DHA production is efficient and sustainable because it uses renewable raw materials and environmentally friendly processes.

Use self-tanners

Self-tanners are safe and effective when used correctly. We can't say it enough: SPF, SPF, SPF!!! It is also important to follow the instructions on the product and test any allergic reactions by applying a small amount to a small area of ​​the skin. But keep the cap on the self-tanner for 4 weeks if you go for light and laser!