What we ask of a self-tanning supplement
To give a natural good glow without being exposed to the sun.
To provide a uniform tan from head to toe.
To maintain the “real” tan obtained in the sun for a few weeks after returning from vacation.
What the self-tanning capsules should contain …
Natural pigments : These are generally carotenoids, pigments synthesized by plants. They are the ones that give fruits and vegetables such as carrots, red peppers or tomatoes their vivid color. In addition, thanks to their antioxidant power, they protect the body’s cells from the harmful action of free radicals. In the form of well-dosed supplements (10 mg of pigments per capsule), and judiciously combined, they provide a nice color to the skin, especially when they are natural, such as lycopene, lutein, astaxanthin … Attention, they do not exempt from applying sunscreen for protection.
And as soon as the treatment is stopped, they are eliminated by the body.
Moisturizing active ingredients : we most often find oils of vegetable origin such as evening primrose or hazelnut, which contain essential fatty acids. They guarantee the suppleness of the skin, preserve its radiance and maintain the artificial tan obtained thanks to the pigments.
Antioxidants: supposed to protect the epidermis from free radicals, they are in principle incorporated in the formulas of food supplements for the beauty and health of the skin: vitamins C and E, selenium, zinc …
And also… Coating agents: These are non-active substances used to contain the formula in the form of a capsule or tablet: gelatin of vegetable origin (more rarely animal) in the capsules; or bulking agents, allowing the formulation to be compressed into a tablet. They also include colorants, natural (caramel …) or synthetic (rather orange or brown for this type of product).
Ingredients to watch out for in self-tanning dietary supplements
Beta-carotene : It is a pigment which belongs to the carotenoid family. Taken over a long period (several months in a row), and in large amounts (at least 20 mg / day), beta-carotene may increase the risk of lung cancer. Especially in people who have other predisposing factors (diet rich in beta-carotene, smoking). Not all of the dietary supplements we have tested reach these critical daily doses. But if in doubt, do not hesitate to seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
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The expert’s focus Self-tanning supplements provide optimal tan to the skin in two to four weeks. We can therefore start the cure by applying a self-tanning cream, while waiting for the effects of the capsules to be visible. It is possible to take it all year round, but it is better to do a 3-month cure, respecting the indicated dose, and then stop. Be careful, it is not because the skin is colored that it is protected from sunburn. |
For further
How to look tanned without exposing yourself
How to choose the right self-tanner
