Everyone wants a golden summer glow. However, achieving the perfect tan often comes at a cost. Prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds can lead to premature aging, sun spots, and even skin cancer. Enter self-tanning products, like Neora’s 3-in-1 Self Tanning + Sculpting Foam, which offer a safer alternative to traditional tanning methods.

Self-tanning products have come a long way since their inception. Gone are the days of streaky, orange-hued tans that look anything but natural. Today’s formulas, like Neora’s, are designed to provide a gradual, even shade that mimics the look of a natural suntan. The key ingredient in most self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone, aka DHA, a sugar molecule that reacts with the amino acids in the skin’s surface to create a darkening effect. This reaction is purely cosmetic and doesn’t involve the skin’s melanin production, which is what happens when we tan in the sun.

One of the main benefits of self-tanning is that it allows you to achieve a toasty glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause significant damage to the skin. By opting for a self-tanner, you can protect your skin while still getting that coveted color.

Neora’s 3-in-1 Self Tanning + Sculpting Foam takes self-tanning to the next level by incorporating skin-loving ingredients like vitamin E, peptides, prickly pear oil, and moringa oil. These ingredients work together to moisturize, soothe, and protect the skin while DHA provides a natural-looking tan. The foam formula is also designed to be transfer-proof and quick-drying, making it easy to apply and wear.

Another advantage of self-tanning is the ability to control the depth and duration of your tan. With suntanning, it can be difficult to predict how long it will take to achieve your desired level of color, and staying in the sun too long can lead to burning. Self-tanners allow you to build your tan gradually so you can customize your glow to your liking. Most self-tanners will last around a week before fading, at which point you can simply reapply to maintain your desired look.

While self-tanning is generally considered a safer option than sun tanning, there are still some potential downsides to keep in mind. Some people may be sensitive to the DHA in self-tanners, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before applying a self-tanner all over your body. Additionally, self-tanners can sometimes cling to dry patches of skin, leading to an uneven application. To avoid this, be sure to exfoliate and moisturize your skin thoroughly before applying your self-tanner.

Think about it — while a sun-kissed glow is desirable, the risks associated with suntanning and tanning beds simply aren’t worth it. Self-tanning products, like Neora’s 3-in-1 Self Tanning + Sculpting Foam, offer a safer, more controllable alternative. By incorporating a high-quality self-tanner into your beauty routine, you can achieve a natural look while keeping your skin healthy and protected. So this summer, skip the sun and reach for a self-tanner instead — your skin will thank you in the long run.