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We all want that perfect tanned look. It’s a way to not only look good, but to feel good as well. Plus, tanning has been linked to improvements for issues related to a lack of sun exposure, like seasonal depression and vitamin D deficiency. But, as we try to find a consistent and affordable way to get that perfect tan, it’s important to remember to invest in a quality tanning lotion. Here are a few reasons why you should avoid a cheap tanning lotion, and why choosing the right tanning salon is just as important.
The Difference Between “Cheap” and “Affordable”
First, we should clarify the difference between a “cheap tanning lotion” and an affordable one. When we say “cheap,” we mean poorly made and low quality. As you will surely discover, there are an incredible number of affordable tanning lotions out there that are also very high quality; these will give you the tan you want without the harmful effects linked to cheap tanning lotions.
Now, let’s talk about why you should avoid picking up that cheap tanning lotion and look for a quality, affordable option instead.
- Harmful Chemicals
If you poke around the internet, you will find a common worry from people about the ingredients of any given cheap tanning lotion: the ingredients are suspected carcinogens. Even if sunless tanning lotions in particular are cleared by the FDA, many groups are concerned about the short- and long-term effects these products could have.
The truth is that many studies are inconclusive on the carcinogenic effects of some of the ingredients in cheap tanning lotion products. What we do know is that the cheap versions also tend to have more ingredients that are likely to be linked to an increased risk of cancer. That means it is often a better idea to get a quality and affordable tanning lotion rather than risk the cheap alternative.
- Not Enough Moisturizer
Since tanning involves a lot of heat and UV, moisture is absolutely integral to a healthy and beautiful tan. While almost every tanning lotion contains some form of moisturizer, a cheap tanning lotion can skimp out on this important ingredient. The result: skin that dries out, looks bad, and can potentially crack and break. This can be very painful and can sometimes lead to people needing medical attention.
- Poor Performance
At the end of the day, a cheap tanning lotion is more likely to do a bad job, not making the most of your tanning time and applying an uneven effect. Together, that means your tan could suffer because of the cheap lotion. If you want that perfect tan, it pays to grab a better lotion that will darken your skin more effectively and evenly.
- The Wrong Lotion for Your Tanning Strategy
There are different tanning lotions for different purposes. There are tanning lotions designed for being in natural sunlight, tanning beds, and even some for no sun at all. But a common tactic of the cheap tanning lotion is to be a one-size-fits-all type of lotion, or, more dangerously, one that is designed for one kind of tanning but claims to be for all kinds.
This type of cheap tanning lotion is essentially a “jack of all trades, master of none” type of lotion, which causes two problems. First, it means that the lotion doesn’t really work well in any situation or doesn’t tell you which situation it works in best. Second, it will simply underperform compared to other lotions because it doesn’t know what it wants to be.
In either situation, it is always best to get a tanning lotion designed specifically for the type of tanning you are doing. Forgo the cheap tanning lotion and instead look for a quality version that specifically lists what it’s good for. That way, you can get a lotion for tanning beds or sitting in the sun that will work best for that situation.
If you are on the hunt for an affordable way to get the best tan, then be sure to avoid that cheap tanning lotion and instead grab an affordable one that is meant for your type of tanning. It will help you get a better look, keep your skin soft and strong, and avoid the dangerous chemicals found in the cheap ones.
