Application of self tanning lotions is fairly simple. After a single application, a color change can be seen within an hour. Manufacturers are beginning to produce self-tanning lotions in different shades, however, an inexperienced user may want to start with a lighter shade at first. One should look for products that have a DHA concentration of 3%-5%.

These give slower "tans" but do not cause the skin to turn an orange shade as some of the older products do. Self-tanning lotions work better for people with medium complexions.

They work less well for people with very fair or very dark skin. You will get the best chemical tan with 2-4 applications several hours apart on the same day, with repeated use every few days afterwards. You can improve the tan by buffing or rubbing the skin lightly with a towel, then showering immediately before applying the product.

You must wash your hands after applying the product to avoid staining of the palms. The face requires fewer initial applications but more frequent reapplications to achieve the desired appearance. For those with sun-damaged skin, self-tanning lotions produce an uneven color, therefore, if your skin is sun-damaged you should not use these lotions. Also in people with older skin or mottled or freckled skin, these lotions could produce an uneven effect. Hair and nails may color, but not the lips. Scars will color poorly.

The side effects that could be associated with these tanning lotions containing DHA are very minor, although most individuals have no side effects at all. There have been only two reports of individuals showing an allergic reaction. By using self-tanning lotions and by avoiding sunlight one can still have a fashionable tan without the risks of aging of the skin and skin cancer.

The most important thing to remember is that the sunless tan offers no protection against sunlight. Some of the newer sunscreens contain self-tanning lotion. These would protect against sunlight when used like ordinary sunscreens.