Long debates on advantages and disadvantages of tanning beds and sunbathing are a good reason for many people to view a tan with suspicion.

This has led companies to undertake extensive research to reduce the harmful effects of Ultraviolet rays associated with tanning bed and sunbathing. This resulted in a few lotions. These come in two categories: Tanning bed & Sunbath lotions and Sunless tanning lotions.

Tanning Bed and Sunbath lotions

Tanning Bed Lotions - People use these lotions before or after taking tanning bed treatments. Tanning bed lotions protect the skin from excess ultraviolet light and accelerate indoor tanning.

Tan accelerators are another group of products used for tanning. These lotions are used while sunbathing. They contain a natural enzyme that stimulates the production of melanin (the body's natural tan creating enzyme) with exposure to sunlight, as a result they are much more effective. This group of lotions accelerates tanning and reduces the harmful effects of sunlight.

Sunless Tanning: A Good Alternate to Ultra Violet Light Tanning

Self-tanning lotions will help you avoid the sun and decrease the risk of ultraviolet exposure related problems, yet will make you look good. The following are common types of generic sunless tanning lotions.

Self-tanning lotions - Research has proved them safe and effective. The Food and Drug Administration has also tested them safe. The active ingredient in these products is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA gives color to the skin through a "browning reaction" when it combines with amino acids in the skin to form a chemical compound known as Melaninoid. Melaninoids are brown in color and this gives a long lasting tan to skin.

Tanning sprays are temporary but a harmless means for tanning. They save you from harmful UV rays and you do not need to make inconvenient trips to tanning saloons. Aerosol tanning sprays can leave you with a perfect looking, even tan with no hassles. All you need is to spray them on your exposed body parts. Within minutes, you will have a tan skin that you can show off anywhere.

Bronzers are yet another tanning product. They come in the form of lotions and gels. Bronzers produce a darker color on the skin by using water-soluble dyes. Bronzers color the skin almost immediately and it dries very quickly. However, it is temporary and starts fading after the first wash.

If you like healthy looking tanned skin, you never had it so good. With the products available in the market, you can become a bronze god in no time!