Explainer / What’s the difference between self-tanners and UV accelerators? Achieve that radiant goddess glow without being exposed to the sun – or, if you use an intensifier, be safe and opt for at least 30SPF

Jun 11 , 2023

Consider using self-tanners or UV accelerators for that perfect bronze glow this summer – but it’s important to know the risks too. Photo: Handout

Summer is here, meaning it’s the best time to enjoy beach days and get that flawless glow – but before you head out to sunbathe, you may want to consider self-tanners that are safer for the skin

But for those who really want a longer-lasting option, it’s important to know that UV accelerators offer little to no protection – so be sure to take regular breaks and choose at least 30 SPF formulas

Ah, the allure of that perfect sun-kissed glow. With summer just around the corner, many are eager to achieve that radiant, bronzed look. But before you grab your beach towel and head out for hours of sunbathing, it’s essential to understand the potential risks and alternative options available.

It’s important to take care of your skin during any season. Photo: Handout

From formulas designed to gradually make you look more tanned without the need to expose your skin to harmful UV rays, to wash-off lotions and accelerators capable of allowing your skin to absorb UV rays faster, the vast ocean of tanning products has an answer for all your needs. But how do they work, and more importantly, are they really safe to use?

The main difference between all the tanning products available comes down to what kind of experience you’re after, and there are two main categories: sunless self-tanners and UV accelerators.

Sunless self-tanners

Self-tanners give you that bronze glow without having to expose your skin to the sun. Photo: Handout

As the name suggests, these are formulas that will help you achieve a bronzed look without the need to actually expose yourself to the sun. “It all comes down to a single ingredient: dihydroxyacetone (DHA),” says New York-based certified dermatologist Dr. Sarah Yagerman, MD. “When applied to your skin, this active ingredient reacts with dead skin cells on the surface, temporarily darkening them to create a radiant tan.”

While the effect is only temporary, there are ways to make it last longer, such as exfoliating properly before application, regularly moisturising your skin and reapplying the self-tanning lotion. The science behind it is simple: the more DHA your lotion contains, the faster you’ll achieve a darker tan.

The more DHA your lotion has, the quicker you’ll achieve a dark tan. Photo: Handout

They come in many forms, from mousses and lotions for a long-lasting, gradual tan; sprays and towelettes for on-the-go indoor tanning solutions; to sticks and sera formulated for the delicate skin on your face.