Not to be confused with self-tanners or sunscreen/sunblock, many tanning lotions do the opposite of what sunscreen does for the skin. Instead of blocking ultraviolet rays, tanning lotion enhances the effects to help promote a deeper, darker tan. In addition, tanning lotion does not alter the color of the skin as self-tanners do. Tanning creams contain a number of ingredients that actually encourage the production of melanin. Fortunately, many of these ingredients actually do offer protection from the sun, among other benefits to the skin. One such ingredient is melanin activating peptide (M.A.P).

Melanin activating peptide is a water-soluble biomimetic peptide with a low molecular weight. It manipulates the processes within the epidermis by enhancing melanin formation, while balancing the immune system. Tanning lotions that contain M.A.P. speed up the skins’ reaction to tanning while protecting it from sun damage and discoloration. M.A.P. is also believed to control allergies and other conditions within the skin that may arise from the usual tanning process. In addition, tanning lotions that contain melanin activating peptides usually help firm the skin and body as well as protect against aging.

Believe it or not, most tanning lotions are all natural and cruelty-free. They are safe for vegans and vegetarians alike. Tanning lotion ingredients range from vegan friendly coconut oil to vegan and vegetarian friendly South African rooibos red tea extract. This might have something to do with the heavenly scent of most tanning lotions. If you want to obtain a beautiful tan, but you still want protection from the sun, make sure the lotion contains M.A.P.

In addition to melanin activating peptide, the best tanning lotions contain the following ingredients:

Panthenol
Hemp Seed Extract
Shea Butter
Coconut Oil
Pomegranate Extract
Noni Extract
Javanese Coffee ST Plus
South African Rooibos Red tea Extract
French Wine Extracts
Sake Ferment

According to American Tanning Supplies, Inc. (ATS), tanning lotion ingredients are packed with valuable anti-aging, skin firming, and moisturizing properties but most people don’t understand what does what. Below is a description of each tanning lotion ingredient, provided by ATS, and exactly what each does for the skin.

Panthenol is a humectant that holds up to 40 times its weight in moisture for the ultimate hydrated glow.

Hemp Seed Extract is a natural oil extract rich in enzymes that help soften and condition the skin to increase UV light absorption for maximum dark color.

Shea Butter is an excellent source of hydration and antioxidant vitamins A, E and F.

Coconut Oil helps defend against free radical damage and moisture loss while leaving skin smooth and soft.

Pomegranate Extract delivers highly potent antioxidants to help prevent and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Noni Extract helps boost skin’s metabolism by prioviding energy for powerful age defying and improved color developement.

Javenese Coffee ST Plus is an advanced skin tightener complex with exotic highly potent caffeine extracts that promote a more contoured appearance.

South African Rooibos Red Tea Extract contains more antioxidants than green tea (up to 50%) to help fight free radicals while maximizing collagen production. It has calming and soothing properties for sensitive skin.

French Wine Extracts offer a superior antioxidant which helps prevent extrinsic aging.

Sake Ferment provides intense hydration for the skin.

To locate some of the best tanning lotions on the market today, visit the Lotion Source at www.lotionsource.com.