Self-tanners have taken over the beauty world as a safe alternative for achieving a sun-kissed complexion. She They are a fantastic way to get a natural, tanned complexion without the harmful effects of UV rays. However, when it comes to light and laser therapy, it is better to take a break. Below are some important reasons why you should not use self-tanners if you are planning 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 the skin to produce a brown color. This reaction can conflict with the response that occurs during light and laser therapy, which may make 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 skin pigmentation can be uneven, which can affect the accuracy of the treatment.

3. Increased risk of complications: Self-tanners, when combined with light and laser therapies, can increase the risk of complications because they prevent the target pigment of the treatment from being properly recognized by the light. This can lead to uneven results, reduced treatment effectiveness, and even potentially dangerous side effects.

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

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

The benefits of self-tanners:

1. Quick and easy: Self-tanners produce results within just a few hours of application, unlike natural tanning through sun exposure, which can take days to weeks. Modern self-tanners are available in various forms, such as sprays, lotions, mousses, and wipes, making them easy to apply.

2. Adaptability: You can determine the intensity of your tan yourself 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 such as aloe vera and vitamin E, which can keep the skin soft and hydrated.

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

How self-tanners work:

1. Chemical reaction: The active ingredient DHA, a colorless sugar molecule, reacts with the 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. Coloring: The reaction between DHA and the amino acids leads to the formation of brown pigments known as melanoidins. This process usually begins within 1 to 2 hours after application, and the color develops further 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 hydrating prior to applying self-tanner can help the color 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 and longer-lasting color.

5. SPF extra needed: Self-tanners provide no protection against the sun. and therefore not afterwards against sun damage either. It is therefore of great importance that an adequate sun protection factor (SPF) is used after using a self-tanner. Moreover, research has shown that free radicals are more strongly affected by UV radiation activated become more pronounced on DHA-treated skin than on untreated skin. All the more reason to keep your SPF in order throughout the day.

How are self-tanners made:

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

1. Source of glycerol: Glycerol, also known as glycerin, 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. The bacterium Gluconobacter oxydans, for example, 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 liquid 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 end product is a colorless, crystalline substance that is stable and can be easily incorporated into various formulations for self-tanners.

6. Green: The use of microbial fermentation for the production of DHA is efficient and sustainable because it utilizes renewable raw materials and environmentally friendly processes.

Use self-tanners in particular

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