Sunless tanning lotions all use this active ingredient to change skin color, dihydroxyacetone (DHA)...

The difference from product to product is the concentration level which will determine the rate at which the skin will tan, as well as the amount of color achieved. In addition, although DHA is the common ingredient, don't expect all sunless tanning lotions to have skin friendly formulations.

Application is the tricky part and it is probably wise to do a test patch to determine how much color is generated on your skin tone. From there you can fine tune quantity and game plan...

Most products will provide guideline information for a successful experience with their product, but generally here are some tips.

Ideally, sunless tanning lotion application:

Needs a system of application that is effective and easy to recall so zones aren't missed or overdone.

To the entire body should be done with gloves to avoid hand staining, otherwise wash hands well after a quick application.

Needs a sufficient time frame for thorough application and drying time to avoid transfer of color onto clothing etc..

Should be following cleansing and exfoliating the skin on perfectly dry skin.
Uses small amounts a time, spread thinly and evenly over the skin.

Works best when applied to a smooth surface, so it is suggested that if your skin is dry, to use a tiny amount of light weight moisturizer.

Should pay special attention to body parts with a crease factor to ensure the tanner is spread well and not collecting in those zones ie. knees, elbows, wrists, fingers, neck etc.

Maintenance is dependent on the effect being pursued. For a darker look, it is better to do several applications till the desired look is achieved.

There are many brands of sunless tanning lotions on the market in all price ranges. Generally, most will have similar formulations using DHA, but will be geared toward skin tone effect i.e. light, medium or dark as well as varying formulations for different skin type needs.

Pevonia Botanica Self-Tanning Emulsion- reveals a natural, golden tan without the harmful effects of the sun. This tinted, light – textured self-tanning emulsion ensures an even application for an even tan. Enriched with Squalane, and Vitamins B & E, it promotes immediate absorption, resulting in a smooth, greaseless, flawless tan.

Don't forget about sun care....

Protection of the skin from sun exposure is required for all races of people. Sun exposure is the primary culprit behind aging skin, wrinkles, pigmentation problems, and most definitely skin cancer (and these negative effects occur in varying degrees depending on your skin color).

Sunscreen is the only product that can truthfully claim to prevent aging and wrinkles and it should be part of everyone's' morning skin care program. Grab your Sunforgettable SPF 30 or higher.

Whether you seek complete solar protection, a sunless golden tan, or after-sun repair; Ligne Soleil specifically caters to your needs. Enriched with Vitamins E, C & B Complexe, Green Tea, Squalane, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe, and Water Lily Extract, it provides your skin effective defense by protecting, hydrating, cooling and repairing.
Experience You features Pevonia Botanica Sun care, natural & chemical-free.

Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30 for protection for face/body, infused with Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, Vit C, B & E.

After-Sun Soothing Gel for relief of a sunburn with white water lily extract, green tea, proline as it soothes and desensitizes your sun-sensitive skin.

Phyto-aromatic mist a replenishing mist anytime during or after-sun exposure to refresh and rehydrate your skin. A delightful blend of chamomile, hyaluronic acid, calendula, & French rose balance and replenishes your skin’s natural moisture.

Self-Tanning Emulsion reveal a natural, golden tan without the harmful effects of the sun.This tinted, light – textured self-tanning emulsion ensures an even application for an even tan. Enriched with Sqalane, and Vitamins B & E, it promotes immediate absorption, resulting in a smooth, greaseless, flawless tan.
Sun Protection Terms:

SPF is an acronym for Sun Protection Factor

The SPF number noted on a sun screen or other product determines how many times longer you can stay in the sun without burning, than you could without it.

Most dermatologists recommend an SPF of at least 15 and a sunscreen application of at least 15-30 minutes before you go out into the sun. It will take this long for a sun block or sunscreen to work with your skin and provide protection.

UVR is an acronym for Ultra Violet Rays

The sun's light is composed of ultraviolet rays. The earth's atmosphere absorbs just about most of the UVC rays, but UVA and UVB are not.

Generally, research indicates that UVA rays are responsible for skin cancer, skin breakdown and wrinkling. Whereas, UVB rays are behind sunburns.

*Choose a "broad spectrum” sun screen which protects you against both. There are many seemingly good sunscreens that don't.

UV Index is short for Ultraviolet Index

This is a numeric index, ranging from 0 - minimal to 10+ -very high, that measures a given day's exposure to UV radiation. This information is generated by the National Weather Service and Environmental Protection Agency and is often included in media presentation of the weather.

Physical Block Sunscreens act to reflect the suns UV rays

Physical blocks should contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Physical block sunscreen creates an immediate barrier between the sun and your skin, reflecting the UVA and UVB rays.

Chemical Block Sunscreens act to absorb the suns UV rays

Chemical block sunscreens contain ingredients like Parsol 1789, otherwise known as avobenzone. Because of their nature, chemical sunscreens need application approximately 20-30 minutes prior to sun exposure, since they require that time to chemically work with the skin to create the absorbing shield.