Tanning and skincare labels are full of jargon. Here are the terms you will see most often, explained in plain English.
B
Broad spectrum: A sunscreen label meaning the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Bronzer: A cosmetic tint that gives instant color. In self tanners and spray solutions it also acts as a guide color and usually washes off in the first shower.
D
Development time: The window after a sunless tan is applied while the color is still forming. Avoid water and sweat during this time.
DHA (dihydroxyacetone): The active ingredient in most sunless tanners. It reacts with the outermost layer of skin to create a temporary brown color. The FDA lists it for external use only.
E
Exfoliation: Removing dead cells from the skin surface with a scrub, mitt or exfoliating acid. Helpful before a sunless tan, but it speeds up fading afterward.
F
Fitzpatrick skin phototype: A six-point scale that describes how skin responds to UV exposure. See Understanding Your Skin Type.
G
Gradual tanner: A moisturizer containing a small amount of tanning ingredient that builds color over several days.
M
Melanin: The natural pigment that gives skin its color. UV exposure increases melanin production, which is what a UV tan is.
Mucous membranes: The moist linings of areas such as the lips, nose and eyes. The FDA advises keeping DHA away from them.
P
Photobiomodulation: Another name for red light therapy.
Photodynamic therapy: A medical treatment in which a light-sensitive medication is applied and then activated with light. It is different from spa red light therapy.
S
SPF (sun protection factor): A measure of how well a sunscreen protects against sunburn. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 or higher.
Stratum corneum: The outermost layer of the skin, made of cells that are continually shed. This is where a sunless tan develops.
Sunless tanning: Getting the look of a tan without UV exposure, using products such as self tanners or a professional spray tan.
U
UVA and UVB: Two types of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and from tanning lamps. UVB is the main cause of sunburn, while UVA reaches deeper into the skin and is linked to skin aging. Both can contribute to skin cancer.