Anddddd just like that, Spring Break is around the corner! Before you know it, it’ll be SUMMER!! Oh I cannot wait for these warmer days!
Seriously, nothing fills me up quite like a day out in the sun, playing at the park, lounging by the pool, and eating dinner on the patio! Anyone else get giddy just reading that?! (If so, you’re my people- come join me one night!!)
Anyways… back to Spring Break! SO this time of year we are usually at our fairest and also about to get into a swimsuit. Such a lovely feeling! I’m assuming you love this too? Yeah.. hard NO for me, too!
And with the amount of messages I have received regarding self tanners, I can tell I am not alone! I’m excited to give some tips on finding safe, toxin-free sunless tanners! So let’s take a look!
So, I am all about honesty and this is no different… I don’t self tan! I have probably 3 times in my life, but I usually just try to get out in the natural sun first! That being said, a LOTTT of my girlfriends self tan on a regular basis and so I have some trustworthy sources!
So while self tanners are wonderful because they allow you to avoid the damaging UV rays, many are LOADED with junk!
Take a look for yourself:
Red 40/ Yellow 10– FD&C dyes that are made from petroleum and have been associated with increased cancer risks and behavior changes. Definitely a no-no in the food category, but also in topical application. Remember… skin is a carrier and not a barrier.
Methylparaben/ Ethylparaben/ Propylparaben– used as preservatives that prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast in topical products. These parabens possess significant estrogen-mimicking properties that are associated with increased risk of breast cancer. These chemicals, directly implicated in breast tumors, are ABSORBED through the skin.
Fragrance– a “cocktail” term. The word fragrance can contain hundreds of ingredients that do not need to be disclosed. More than 95 percent of the chemicals in synthetic fragrances are derived from petrochemicals. These chemicals include: benzene derivatives, aldehydes, phthalates, and a slew of other known toxins that are capable of causing cancer, birth defects, nervous-system disorders and allergies, most of which are cited on the EPA’s hazardous waste list
BHT– “Butylated hydroxytoluene” is used as a preservative, often in food, but can also be found in personal care products! It is termed ‘reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen’ by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Phenoxyethanol– The process of creating phenoxyethanol often results in a VERY toxic by-product, 1,4-dioxane. The EPA has established 1,4 dioxane is a human carcinogen (it will not be listed on a label because it’s a contaminant, not an ingredient). The FDA describes it as being able to depress the nervous system. The product’s Material Safety Data Sheet says that it is harmful if inhaled or swallowed or absorbed through the SKIN and that it can cause reproductive damage.
PEGs– PEGs aren’t a single ingredient but a class of ethylene glycol polymers that moisturize, keep products stable, and enhance the penetration of other ingredients. According to a report in the International Journal of Toxicology by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, pollutants found in various PEG compounds include ethylene oxide (used to manufacture mustard gas), 1,4-dioxane, polycyclic aromatic compounds, and heavy metals (lead, iron, cobalt, nickel, cadmium, arsenic).
… and more
So are they really safer than sunshine? Not unless you find a clean version!
Good news… I have some cleaner options for you! There are 2 that I highly recommend based on the rave reviews I hear and also the beautiful ingredient list!!
Both of these contain majority organic ingredients, no parabens, phthalates, sulfates, artificial fragrance or dyes, or any other junk that has no business getting on or even near your skin! So, now you don’t have to dread getting in that swimsuit! Go on, girl! Rock your safe tan and enjoy the warm weather! Just don’t forget your SPF!
PRO TIP: Exfoliate your skin week before using a self tanner to get the deal skin cells off! A great option is with a dry brush!